Guide to Longmont Colorado | Outdoor Recreation | Lodging, Dining, Activities, Shopping, History

Those seeking more of a low key adventure can head to one of the many streams in and around Longmont and take advantage of the world-class fly-fishing. There is a special kids-only fishing pond located at Izaak Walton Park where children age 15 an younger can test their skills before heading out to catch some of the best trout in the state. Ice skaters will enjoy the seasonal rink located at Roosevelt Park. rentals are available, as is hot chocolate and goodies to ensure an afternoon or evening of fun for the entire family as this rink is open to the public!

The Recreation Centers offer just about every fitness class, pool configuration and piece of equipment for the healthy and active resident as well as the visitor. Three large pools, a handful of "kiddie pools" and three recreation facilities can keep visitors fit and active for days.

The Greenway System in Longmont boasts nearly 50 miles of paved "multi-use" trails throughout Longmont. Pick up a (free) bike map to find the hidden treasures throughout the city - incorporating wildlife viewing, public artwork and the 50+ parks St. Vrain Greenway, Longmont, Colorado

that dot the city. New in 2011 are the recommended routes - whether you're looking for a 10K training run, a 25-mile bike ride, or a 3-mile walking route, this map will point out the highlighted and recommended routes that Longmont has to offer.

Parks abound in Longmont; there's a park for everyone's taste and interests. Playgrounds, picnic tables, public artwork, BBQ and picnic facilities, nature trails, BMX courses, benches, walking trails, tennis courts, basketball hoops, open space, wildlife and solitude, ponds, soccer fields and so much more are all available! Each of the many parks provides its own unique offerings. Visit www.ci.longmont.co.us/parks for all the information on parks, fishing, restrooms and drinking fountains.

Union Reservoir sits on 736 acres on the northeast side of Longmont. The largest body of water in the city offers sailing, kayaking, canoeing, windsurfing, sculling and even camping picnicking and open-water swimming for those wanting to swim a bit off the shoreline.

Soccer at Sandstone Ranch, Longmont, Colorado

Soccer at Sandstone Ranch, Longmont, Colorado

And Sandstone Ranch, a wildlife refuge for birds, fox, deer, eagles and more, sits on 313 acres on the far east side of the city. While the soccer, football and baseball fields see frequent activity, the south side of this community park provides history in the Morse Coffin house, as well as access to open space and trails, and possibly even a peek into the wild.

Seasonal events are frequent in this city that seemingly celebrates every holiday with a parade and a run/walk activity. From the annual Turkey Trot 10K or 2-mile race to the longest consecutively running triathlon in the country, this city knows how to stay fit and active. Parades celebrate everything from holidays to pets and dolls. And what would Longmont do without the Mud Hen race? Visit the event calendar at www.VisitLongmont.org.