Button Rock Preserve Ralph Price Reservoir
A serene mountain preserve protecting Longmont's drinking water, offering peaceful hikes with reservoir and dam views.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Wildflowers bloom, fewer crowds
Button Rock Preserve Ralph Price Reservoir
Best Time
Wildflowers bloom, fewer crowds
Highlights
Must-see attractions
A serene mountain preserve protecting Longmont's drinking water, offering peaceful hikes with reservoir and dam views.
"Beautiful scenery, peaceful atmosphere, and well-maintained trails make this a must-visit."
🐾 Leave Pets at Home
Dogs and domestic animals are no longer allowed as of May 2023. Enjoy the peace and quiet!
💧 Pack Plenty of Water
Little shade on the main road; bring enough water, especially for longer hikes.
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
Button Rock Dam
Ralph Price Reservoir
Impressive concrete dam offering panoramic views of the reservoir and surrounding mountains. A historical landmark.
Sleepy Lion Trail
Connects to Professor's Ranch Trail
A diverse loop with switchbacks, offering stunning vistas and a good workout. Connects to other trails for extended hikes.
Wildflower Displays
Along the main road and trails
Vibrant wildflowers bloom in spring and early summer, adding bursts of color to the landscape. Look for them along the wider paths.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Know Before You Go: Water Source Protection
Trail Etiquette & Preparation
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
Best winter hikes?
🐾 Leave Pets at Home
Dogs and domestic animals are no longer allowed as of May 2023. Enjoy the peace and quiet!
💧 Pack Plenty of Water
Little shade on the main road; bring enough water, especially for longer hikes.
What are some good hikes near Northern Colorado to go on around 3pm?
EASY hikes in Lefthand or James Canyon?
🥾 Sturdy Footwear Recommended
While some paths are wide, others have switchbacks. Good shoes are essential for comfort and safety.
🗺️ Explore Loop Hikes
Combine trails like Sleepy Lion and Professor's Ranch for varied scenery and a good loop.
Are there any pretty places to hike in the foothills?
Tips
from all over the internet
🐾 Leave Pets at Home
Dogs and domestic animals are no longer allowed as of May 2023. Enjoy the peace and quiet!
💧 Pack Plenty of Water
Little shade on the main road; bring enough water, especially for longer hikes.
🥾 Sturdy Footwear Recommended
While some paths are wide, others have switchbacks. Good shoes are essential for comfort and safety.
🗺️ Explore Loop Hikes
Combine trails like Sleepy Lion and Professor's Ranch for varied scenery and a good loop.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors praise Button Rock Preserve for its peaceful atmosphere, beautiful scenery, and well-maintained trails, especially since the no-dog policy was implemented. The dam and reservoir offer impressive views, and the variety of trails caters to different fitness levels. Some find the main road a bit basic, but the overall experience is highly regarded for its natural beauty and tranquility.
"Its super quiet in the mornings and very peaceful nice hike, no dogs, and no bikes - not even with the magical gravel roads they have. It is drinking water soo I did not see a swimming spot either. Overall just a basic hike with a little history and beauty. I wish they would allow bikes at least on the dirt roads that would be magical."
Jeffrey R
"It was a pretty challenging a trail I chose to do the 2 mi trail but ended up coming back down because I forgot my inhaler but overall it was beautiful and I wish I would have brought my inhaler so I could have finished the trail I'm going to go back and be more prepared next time"
cheryl Young
"Since this trail has become dog free, it is better than ever! We have enjoyed bringing our dog here, but I understand the volume of traffic and the impact on the environment force disclosure. As a result, you can find a parking spot with ease and the bathrooms are cleaner. Plus you get to enjoy the natural environment with less distraction. The sleepy lion is a great trail and being able to connect to haul ranch gives you even more options for a distance and fitness."
LS Sheldon
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
Button Rock Preserve is located west of Longmont, Colorado. Access is typically via County Road 80 and then up County Road 27. The main entrance leads to the Ralph Price Reservoir and parking areas.
Yes, there are parking areas available. Since dogs are no longer allowed, parking is generally easier to find, especially compared to when pets were permitted.
Using GPS is recommended, but be aware that cell service can be spotty in the area. It's a good idea to download offline maps before you go.
The closest major town is Longmont, Colorado. It's a convenient place to stock up on supplies before heading to the preserve.
Public transportation options are very limited for reaching Button Rock Preserve due to its remote location. Driving is the most practical way to access it.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
There is no entrance fee to access Button Rock Preserve. It is open to the public for recreational use, provided you adhere to the rules.
The preserve is generally open from sunrise to sunset. It's always a good idea to check local advisories for any temporary closures or changes in hours.
No permit is required for hiking at Button Rock Preserve. However, all visitors must comply with the regulations, especially regarding pets and water activities.
The primary restriction is that dogs and domestic animals are not allowed. Swimming, fishing, and boating in the reservoir are also prohibited as it's a drinking water source.
Dogs and domestic animals were prohibited starting in May 2023. This change has been noted by visitors as improving the overall experience.
🎫 🏞️ Onsite Experience
Hikes range from wide, flat dirt roads to more challenging trails with switchbacks like the Sleepy Lion Trail. You can create loops of varying distances.
Yes, the main road leading to the dam is a wide, flat dirt road that's suitable for easy walks. For more challenging terrain, explore the designated trails.
No, swimming, fishing, and any water contact activities are strictly prohibited in Ralph Price Reservoir because it is a drinking water source.
The scenery is beautiful, with mountain views, a large reservoir, and in season, abundant wildflowers. The main road offers open vistas, while trails go through more wooded areas.
Yes, restrooms are available at the preserve. Visitors have noted they are cleaner since the implementation of the no-dog policy.
📸 📸 Photography
The top of the Button Rock Dam offers panoramic views of the reservoir and mountains. The Sleepy Lion Trail also provides scenic overlooks. Look for wildflowers in spring and summer.
Absolutely. The combination of the reservoir, dam, and surrounding foothills provides excellent opportunities for landscape photography, especially during sunrise and sunset.
Early mornings offer peaceful light and fewer people, ideal for capturing the serene beauty. Late afternoons can also provide beautiful golden hour light.
Drone usage regulations can vary and are often restricted in protected areas, especially those related to water sources. It's best to check with local authorities or park management before flying a drone.
Keep an eye out for the diverse wildflowers in bloom during the spring and early summer. The reflections on the reservoir can also be stunning.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
While dogs are no longer allowed, the absence of pets has made the preserve more peaceful and cleaner, which can be a plus for families. Remember to pack plenty of water and snacks, as amenities are limited. The educational aspect of the preserve, being a drinking water source, can be a valuable lesson for children about environmental responsibility.
🚶♀️ Solo Hikers & Peace Seekers
Whether you opt for the gentle walk along the reservoir road or a more invigorating climb on trails like Sleepy Lion, the preserve offers a chance to disconnect and recharge. The stunning views and the sense of being in a protected natural space contribute to a deeply calming experience.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
Understanding the Water Source Protection
Adhering to these rules is paramount. The absence of dogs, for instance, has been noted by visitors as a positive change, leading to a cleaner and more peaceful environment. Understanding the 'why' behind these regulations helps foster a sense of responsibility among visitors, ensuring the long-term health of Longmont's water supply.
When planning your visit, remember that the primary purpose of this preserve is water protection. While hiking and enjoying the scenery are encouraged, it's essential to do so in a way that respects the delicate ecosystem and the vital role it plays for the community.
Navigating the Trails: From Gentle Strolls to Challenging Climbs
For those looking for more of a workout and varied terrain, the Sleepy Lion Trail is a popular choice. This trail features switchbacks that ascend to the top of the dam, providing a more challenging climb and rewarding panoramic vistas. It can be combined with other trails, such as the Professor's Ranch Trail, to create diverse loops of varying lengths, offering a more immersive forest experience.
When choosing your route, consider the time of year and weather. The main road has limited shade, making it potentially hot in summer. Trails like Sleepy Lion offer more varied cover. Always wear appropriate footwear, as even the 'easier' trails can be uneven, and the switchbacks require good grip and stability.
Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit