Longmont’s sunrises and sunsets have a way of stopping you in your tracks. Morning light reflects softly across McIntosh Lake, and Pella Crossing glows in warm color as the day winds down. Golden Ponds offers mountain views where pinks, oranges, and violets stretch across the sky. Whether you’re out for a peaceful stroll or wrapping up a day of exploring, Longmont’s skies turn these familiar places into unforgettable moments.
You can catch a beautiful sunrise or sunset just about anywhere in Longmont, but these spots are a few of our favorite places to pause, look up, and take it all in.
McIntosh Lake
McIntosh Lake Nature Area offers 3.5 miles of easy walking trails and beautiful views of the Rocky Mountains, most notably Longs Peak and Mt. Meeker. It is a great location to catch the colors at sunrise or sunset! You can be out on the water in a kayak or paddleboard or on the shoreline at the park or on the trail!
St. Vrain Greenway
Beautiful views of the St. Vrain River are most easily accessed via the St. Vrain Greenway, which spans 8 miles from Golden Ponds Park on 3rd Ave. to Sandstone Ranch Park off SR 119—plenty of bridges and spots along the trail to stop and capture a sunset photo.
Union Reservoir
Union Reservoir Nature Area is a 736-acre body of water in Longmont that provides many outdoor recreational activities. Catch the sunrise or sunset by paddleboard, kayak or on the beach's shorelines!
Golden Ponds Nature Area
Golden Ponds Nature Area is an 88-acre natural park with four ponds on a former mine, 2.6 miles of trails, and abundant birdlife. It is the perfect place to start or end your day with beautiful, tranquil views.
Pella Crossing
Pella Crossing offers wide-open views and peaceful trails, making it a beautiful place to watch the sun rise or set over Longmont’s open space and waterways.
Sandstone Ranch
Sandstone Ranch can be accessed via the St. Vrain Greenway by walking, biking, or driving to the Visitors & Learning Center. The historic building on the property has a trail that leads to a stunning overlook with mountain views, the perfect location to capture the moment.
Lagerman Reservoir
Lagerman Reservoir is a peaceful spot to catch some of Longmont’s best sunrises and sunsets, with wide skies, still water, and colors that reflect beautifully across the reservoir.
St. Vrain State Park
St. Vrain State Park is one of Colorado's state parks and is a family-friendly destination for visitors seeking a peaceful and simple outdoor break. It has many different pond locations and trails where you can catch an evening sunset!
