The best family-friendly hikes and walks around Longmont

The Dickens Farm South Loop offers a delightful, easy hike through the Dickens Farm Nature Area in Longmont, Colorado. You'll find yourself immersed in a tranquil setting alongside the St. Vrain Creek, with native grasses and green meadows creating a peaceful atmosphere. It's a perfect spot for birdwatching and enjoying nature without venturing far from the city.

This accessible route is ideal for a quick outing, covering just 0.8 miles (1.3 km) with a minimal 17 feet (5 metres) of elevation gain, taking about 19 minutes to complete. Parking is available on-site, and the area includes restrooms and shelter areas. Dogs are welcome on leash, and the trail is enjoyable year-round, though spring and fall offer the most pleasant conditions.

Part of the award-winning Dickens Farm Nature Area, this loop connects to the Saint Vrain Greenway and offers more than just hiking. You can explore an ADA-accessible nature playground, interpretation areas about local ecology, and even slower-moving water play areas along the creek. It's a fantastic, family-friendly destination with plenty to see and do.

The Saint Vrain Greenway offers a remarkably diverse hiking experience, winding through Longmont's varied landscapes. You'll traverse mostly flat, paved paths alongside the Saint Vrain Creek, enjoying river views and passing by serene spots like the Saint Vrain Waterfall. The trail also features gravel sections and nature paths, providing a mix of surfaces and scenery that transitions from urban parks to open countryside, often with mountain backdrops. Keep an eye out for local wildlife, including various bird species, as you explore this extensive route.

Planning your visit is straightforward, with numerous access points and amenities along the way. You'll find multiple parking areas, restrooms, and water fountains at the parks connected by the Greenway. The trail is generally accessible year-round, though spring and early summer can be particularly pleasant for spotting wildflowers. Remember that while much of the route is dog-friendly, specific sections have restrictions to protect sensitive wildlife habitats, so check local signage.

This extensive greenway is considered the "crown jewel" of Longmont's trail system, linking several parks, schools, and commercial areas. It's also a vital part of the larger Front Range Trail plan, aiming to connect Wyoming to New Mexico. The 26.8-mile (43.1 km) route, with its 341 feet (104 metres) of elevation gain, is rated difficult due to its length, taking approximately 10 hours and 56 minutes to complete, but its generally flat terrain makes it suitable for long, easygoing days.

If you're looking for an accessible and peaceful escape near Longmont, the Jim Hamm Nature Area Loop is an excellent choice. This easy 0.9-mile (1.5 km) hike offers a delightful journey around a tranquil 14-acre pond, where you can spot diverse bird species. With only 8 feet (2 metres) of elevation gain, it's a flat and pleasant stroll that takes roughly 22 minutes, perfect for a quick dose of nature.

Planning your visit is simple, as the Jim Hamm Nature Area provides ample off-street parking. The trail features both paved and gravel paths, making it accessible for a wide range of visitors, including those with mobility aids. While the area is enjoyable year-round, consider visiting during milder weather for the most comfortable experience, keeping in mind that restrooms might be seasonally closed.

Beyond its natural beauty, the Jim Hamm Nature Area holds a poignant history, dedicated to USAF Captain Jim Hamm and all St. Vrain Valley Veterans. It's also a significant bird sanctuary, with the Foothills Audubon Society having identified over 80 different bird species here. Educational panels along the route highlight the impressive Front Range vista, making it a great spot for wildlife viewing and appreciating local history.

The St. Vrain Greenway offers a remarkably varied journey through Longmont, following the river through urban parks, open spaces, and even rural stretches. You'll find the path predominantly paved and flat, making for easy walking or cycling, with mountain views and wildflowers adding to the scenic appeal. Keep an eye out for diverse wildlife, including bald eagles and great blue herons, especially around Golden Ponds, a notable feature along the route.

Planning your visit to the St. Vrain Greenway is straightforward, as it's a highly accessible multi-use path. While the full 26.8-mile (43.1 km) length, with its 341 feet (104 metres) of elevation gain, is rated difficult and takes nearly 11 hours, you can easily tackle shorter sections. The trail is family-friendly and offers amenities like bathrooms and water fountains, plus connections to local restaurants and breweries. Parking is available at various access points along the route.

This trail is a true highlight of Longmont's outdoor offerings, connecting numerous local landmarks and even linking to other trail systems like the Left Hand Greenway for extended adventures. Its flat, paved surface makes it an excellent option for accessible St Vrain Greenway trails, welcoming strollers and wheelchairs. While generally dog-friendly, be mindful of specific sections with wildlife protection restrictions.

The McIntosh Lake loop offers a delightful and accessible hiking experience, circling the picturesque McIntosh Lake. As you walk, you'll be treated to continuous views of the water, with the majestic Rocky Mountains, including Mount Meeker and Longs Peak, forming a stunning backdrop to the west. The terrain is a comfortable mix of paved and gravel surfaces, making it an enjoyable outing for everyone.

This easy 3.7-mile (6.0 km) loop has a minimal elevation gain of just 27 feet (8 metres) and typically takes about 1 hour and 30 minutes to complete. There are multiple convenient access points and parking areas around the lake, though it can get quite busy, so arriving during off-peak hours is a good idea for a more tranquil visit.

Beyond hiking, McIntosh Lake is a hub for various outdoor activities, including birding, non-motorized boating, and fishing. Keep an eye out for diverse wildlife such as prairie dogs, blue herons, bald eagles, and even pelicans, which add to the natural charm of this family-friendly trail.