Outdoor Recreation

Perhaps the greatest part about a city that boasts 320 days of sunshine per year is that there is time and opportunity to enjoy all of the outdoor recreation available. Longmont might just be the “perfect” city when it comes to outdoor adventure. Whether seeing it all from above while jumping out of a plane with the Mile Hi Skydiving Company, fly fishing in one of the many streams in and around Longmont, biking the perimeter of the city on the Longmont Loop Trail or driving golf balls on one of three public courses, the opportunities abound!

Those who seek thrill, adventure and an adrenalin rush can head over to Mile Hi Skydiving where you can watch solo or tandem skydivers enjoy the views en route to the landing pad on the East side of the city. What’s a better way to see the entire city than from above, while taking in some of the most phenomenal views of the Rocky Mountains?

Those seeking more of a “low key” adventure can head to one of 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 kids can test their skills before heading out to catch some of the best trout in the state.

If golf is your passion, Longmont has three distinctive municipal golf courses for your enjoyment. Nestled in the foothills of the Rocky Mountains, you will find historic Sunset Golf Course, breathtaking Twin Peaks, and the Robert Trent Jones II designed Ute Creek. Each course offers challenging and interesting layouts for golfers of all skill levels. Let our professional staff take care of your every golfing need including instruction, cart rentals, golf club rentals, pro shops and tournaments.

Sunset Golf Course, located in historic old Longmont, is one of the most scenic nine-hole courses in Colorado.  Sunset is known for its superb condition, tree-lined fairways and spectacular views of Longs Peak. It was rated one of the best nine-hole courses in the state by a Colorado publication.

Twin Peaks Golf Course is a Frank Hummel design that opened for play in 1977. Twin Peaks is a traditional-style championship course that features elevated, undulating greens and water hazards on seven holes. This is a Par 70 course that challenges experienced golfers, yet is enjoyable for players of all ages and skill levels. The course has a full-service clubhouse and patio seating for 40, a great place to socialize after a round of golf or to have a company outing.

Ute Creek Golf Course, designed by the world-renowned golf course architects of the Robert Trent Jones II Group, opened in 1997. This 18-hole championship course is a Par 72, ranging in length from 5,509 yards to 7,167 yards. Ute Creek is one of only six Robert Trent Jones II courses in Colorado, and the only one on the northern Front Range. Its five lakes, two creeks, multi-level fairways and native grass areas will provide challenge and interest for players of all abilities.

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 Olympic distance pools, a handful of “kiddie pools” and three recreation facilities can keep the visitor fit and active for days. 

The Greenway System in Longmont boasts nearly 50 miles of paved “multi-use” trail 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 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 this small city; 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. For a complete listing of the parks, www.ci.longmont.co.us/parks will provide all of 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.

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 wilds!

Seasonal events are frequent in this small town 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 running consecutive triathlon in the country, this city knows how to stay fit and active. Parades range from holiday to Pet and Doll. And what would Longmont do without the Mud Hen race? Visit the event calendar at VisitLongmont.org.