Field Notes: Devil's Backbone Open Space, Loveland

Devil's Backbone Open Space, Plaster Mill Rd, Loveland, 20 miles from Longmont 

12 miles of trails which connect to Rimrock Open Space and then Horsetooth Mountain Open Space. About 1.5 miles from the parking lot to the keyhole. This is a really nice easy hike that is only 20 miles from Longmont. Located in Loveland, it is surrounded by communities of homes so it does not feel like you are escaping into nature. Still, the rock formation is stunning and feels quintessentially western. The keyhole - an impressive rock arch - is only about 1.5 miles from the parking lot making it a great destination for kids while the adults will appreciate the view of Longs Peek, Meeker, the Twin Sisters and more.

(As I write this post it is cold and snowy, but these photos were taken only a few weeks ago on a warm and sunny day in January. )

For more local hikes see here and here. 

Serendipity Mercantile

Serendipity Mercantile closed their doors in 2016. Sad! :(

Where: 635 Third Ave.

When: Monday-Saturday, 10am-6pm

Web: facebook.com/serendipitymercantile

Longmont has several large indoor flea markets around town, but Serendipity Mercantile is by far the most pleasurable shopping experience. Located in a historic building one block off of Main Street, part of its charm is the brick walls and the large windows. 

Serendipity also offers a more curated collection of vintage and antique merchandise than its competitors (i.e., there's less crap to sift through). I love to browse their selection of antique and mid-century furniture, and if you like kitschy kitchenware, this is definitely the place. Serendipity also has a large selection of vintage clothing and jewelry (perfect for Halloween costumes).

In the back of the store, there is a small collection of vinyl (my husband's first and only stop) and a section of architectural salvage (old doors, shutters, and hardware). While much of the merchandise is pricy (these folks definitely know the worth of what they are selling), there are plenty of deals to be had as well.

Apple Picking at Roger's Grove

Where: Roger's Grove Park, 220 S Hover Street

This was a great year for apples, and the orchard at Roger's Grove Park is overflowing with fruit. Even better, the apples are free for the picking, so grab your tote bags and start harvesting. Be prepared: many of the best specimens can be found on the highest limbs, and a step stool will come in handy. (Bug spray is a good idea, too.) Kids will love climbing the trees and unlimited apples.

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.