Button Rock Preserve
Description: 5.4 Mile loop located in Lyons, Co. Sleepy Lion trail which is a portion of the loop is 2 miles long and moderate. You have the option of going directly to Ralph Price Reservior by road which is 2 miles one way or by taking the loop which is 5.4 miles round trip. There are also additional hiking trails along the reservoir.
Directions: From Longmont take CO-66 W towards Lyons, Co. Take a right on US-36 W for 4 miles. Turn left onto Longmont Dam Road. Road dead ends into trail head after 2.7 miles.
Use: Hiking and Fishing
Button Rock Resverior
Years of restoration and rebuilding have made Button Rock Preserve and Sleepy Lion trail one of a kind. Great fishing habitat for both lake and river fishing as well as beautiful views along the way. Last week, I eagerly jumped in my car with the dogs nipping at my heels. I knew daylight was short and I didn’t want to miss the chance to get out hiking. Singing along to Porter Union, a local band from Nebraska, we made the short drive to Lyons, Co. Northern Colorado was calling for snow that evening and I knew I would be disappointed if I didn’t take advantage of the nice weather. Although it was December, it had been in the high 50’s all week making it hard to get into the Christmas spirit. The trailhead is easy to access and 4-wheel drive is not necessary on your vehicle. It's also impossible to miss the trailhead as the road ends at the trail.
Favorite part about this trail!
The first mile of the trail follows a road where they require your dogs to be leashed. The road is uphill but only slightly, this is an easy hike which you can take all the way to the dam if you wish(~2 Miles each way). It also follow the North Saint Vrain Creek and passes Longmont reservoir. Your second option is to take Sleepy Lion Trail which is two miles long and brings you directly to the bottom of the dam. My two favorite things about this trail are the scenery and the fact that it is an off leash trail. The dogs have a hay day here! Sleepy Lion trail winds through forest and meadows, boasting stunning views along the way.
Ralph Price Reservoir with Mount Meeker and Longs Peak in the background.
Fishing is restricted at the reservoir and a limited number of permits can be obtained annually. However, you are able to fish the North Saint Vrain Creek and Longmont Reservoir. Throughout the restoration process they created aquatic habitats for native fish to thrive. In December, the water levels are really low so I did not attempt to fly fish, I will have to save that for 2018.
Dam below Longmont Reservoir.
Regardless of the route you plan to take, all begin on the road. It is blocked by a gate so only local residents are allowed through. After about 3/4 of a mile you will see the sign for Sleepy Lion trail on your left. Again, it is a loop so you are welcome to go either way. Sleepy Lion trail is moderate to strenuous in areas, with rock outcroppings along the trail. It is a refreshing trail and dogs are allowed off leash anywhere past this point. The views of both the reservoir, the river and Longs Peak are stunning as you trek over the mountain side.
Sleepy Lion trail pops you out at the base of North Saint Vrain Creek. Here you are welcome to hit the road back to the trailhead or pop up to see the reservoir. I highly recommend making the quarter of a mile climb to see the Ralph Price Reservoir. It is strenuous and steep but highly rewarding and there is a well worn trail along the right hand side of the dam. You won't be disappointed. Overall, this hike is one of my favorites for a quick jaunt into the woods. It has so much to offer whether your looking to fish, hike or have a lazy afternoon picnic with the family. Button Rock Preserve is located 15 minutes from Lyons which is a blast to walk around the shops or grab a beer at the located owned and operated, Oscar Blues. Safe travels!
The dam for Ralph Price Reservoir.