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McIntosh Lake
4.8 ★★★★★ 876 Google reviews · Running trail in Longmont, Colorado · Posted hours
Runner's snapshot
- Surface
- Mixed
- Distance
- 3.5 mi
- Shape
- Not reported
- Shade
- Not reported
- Access
- Posted hours
Confirmed from McIntosh Lake's own listing, the park or land manager's website, and runner reviews. Blank cells mean we could not verify that fact — we would rather say "not reported" than invent one. There is no Easy / Moderate / Hard rating on this page on purpose: a one-word difficulty score tells you nothing about whether a trail suits your run. Surface, distance, shade and hours do.
Scenic lake featuring a paved and gravel trail, a playground and picnic areas.
What runners say about McIntosh Lake
“The well-maintained trails around the lake are perfect for walking, jogging, or cycling while enjoying stunning views of the Rocky Mountains in the background.”
“The well-maintained trails around the lake are perfect for walking, jogging, or cycling while enjoying stunning views of the Rocky Mountains in the background.”
“The well-maintained trails around the lake are perfect for walking, jogging, or cycling while enjoying stunning views of the Rocky Mountains in the background.”
It was a beautiful day for a walk around this beautiful lake. There were quite a few others out enjoying the day as well. Everyone was pleasant and shared the trail space. It's a nice easy walk, partially paved, or hard pack. We love walking here whenever we are in town.
McIntosh Lake is a true gem nestled in the heart of Colorado, offering an exceptional blend of natural beauty and recreational opportunities. For wildlife enthusiasts, it serves as a sanctuary, with the lake and surrounding wetlands providing a haven for a wide variety of animals and birds.
Beautiful reservoir with kayaks and paddle boards. Views of the mountains. Lots of areas with picnic tables and a small playground. Some fishing. 3.5 hiking trail around lake. Dog friendly. No entry fee.
A wonderful park and 3.5 mile walking trail. Lots of people use the water for swimming and paddle board and kayaking as well as fishing. The views of Longs Peak are wonderful and change every day. Plenty of wildlife and lots of benches of you're not up for going all that far and just want to enjoy the views.
Trail conditions & character
“The well-maintained trails around the lake are perfect for walking, jogging, or cycling while enjoying stunning views of the Rocky Mountains in the background.”
“I was able to spot the majestic Bald Eagle, highland cows, prairie dogs and some coots playing in the lake.”
“It's a nice easy walk, partially paved, or hard pack.”
“Gets a little busy; Parking along the road, there are multiple access points to launch, which is convenient!”
“5 miles around on combination of asphalt and gravel.”
“They have public bathrooms in different parts of the park.”
Plan your run at McIntosh Lake
The practical stuff
- AccessPosted hours — posted hours below; park gates sometimes close earlier than the listing says
- SurfaceMixed — more than one surface along the route, so check the segment you plan to run
- Distance3.5 mi as reported — check whether that is one way or a round trip before you commit
- ShadeNot reported. Assume some of it is exposed and carry water in summer.
- At the trailheadparking, restrooms — reported by runners
- DogsWelcome, per reviewers. Leash rules vary by park — the trailhead sign is the authority.
- Websitelongmontcolorado.gov
- Phone+1 303-651-8416
- Social Instagram · Facebook
Hours
| Monday | 5 am–11 pm |
| Tuesday | 5 am–11 pm |
| Wednesday | 5 am–11 pm |
| Thursday | 5 am–11 pm |
| Friday | 5 am–11 pm |
| Saturday | 5 am–11 pm |
| Sunday | 5 am–11 pm |
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Other trails within easy driving distance — useful when this one is flooded, gated, or just not the run you had in mind today.
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