Union Reservoir

Where: 461 County Road 26
Web: http://www.ci.longmont.co.us/parks/park_list/overview/union.htm
When: March 1 - April 30, 6am-8pm; May 1 - Sept 1 (Labor day), 6am-9pm; Sept 2 - Sept 30, 7am-8pm; Oct 1 - Oct 31, 7am-7pm
Fee: Vehicle, $8; Walk/Bike-in, $2 (see website for other fees and annual passes)

Let's face it: you don't have a whole lot of options in Longmont when it comes to a day at the beach. In fact, your options pretty much begin and end with Union Reservoir. Fortunately, Union is a lovely spot in which to soak up the summer sun. Located on the east side of town, the 736-acre reservoir offers visitors a wide array of outdoor recreation options in a picturesque setting.

Union is a wakeless lake, providing a perfect spot for sail boats, canoes, wind surfers and paddle boats to glide across the water without concerns about loud motors and disruptive waves. On the sandy beaches (yes, there really is sand!) families frolic and swim while friendly, well-behaved dogs can splash happily nearby in a designated off-leash area (note: the dog beach is not fenced in). There are also campgrounds, a playground, grills, a volleyball court and more.

Union reservoir is also home to the Union Sailing Club, an active sailing club with weekly races, and the Longmont Sculling Club which caters to both new and experienced scullers.

End of Summer Dog Swim

(Updated for 2014)

Every year the summer draws to a close, and the kids' activity pools close their doors in anticipation of children returning to school. A few days later, the doors open again - for just a few hours - letting in the water-loving canines of Longmont. The pool is full of wagging tails and bobbing tennis balls, and the owners look on, soaking wet, from the sidelines. Labs and goldens are the majority here, but all friendly pooches are welcome. Bring your 3 dollars, the city provides balls and bags.

This year there is only one kids' activity pool because the Kanemoto pool was destroyed in the 2013 flood.


2014 dates:
Tuesday, August 19 and Wednesday, August 20, 4-7pm at Roosevelt Activity Pool, $3