Date Hiked: October 14, 2025

Distance: 1 mi (RT)

Elevation Gain: Minimal

Trailhead Lat/Long: 105.136°W 40.169161°N

Managing Agency: City of Longmont

Fee: None

Directions:

From I-25 exit onto Hwy 119 and head west for 7.5 miles. Bear right onto Nelson Road and turn right (north) onto South Hover Street. After 1 mile, turn left onto 3rd Ave and take it into Golden Ponds Park and Nature Area.

Hike Description:

Golden Ponds Nature Area is a very popular outdoor recreation spot in Longmont, CO. The park consists of three ponds surrounded by natural surface trails and bordered on the south by Saint Vrain Creek. This park is predominantly used for hiking, fishing, and birding. The ponds are lined by cottonwood trees so this is also a popular spot for fall colors.

For a nice mile long loop, start from the trailhead and head west. Make a right in between the first and second pond and follow the ponds until you reach Saint Vrain Creek. You can spend some time in the creek and check out the bridge for nice Saint Vrain views but head back to the ponds to continue the loop. Follow the trail to the western edge of the park and pond three. Turn right and follow the ponds back to the trailhead. 

For me, the fall colors were the real draw. In mid October this park is beautiful and the wide open views of the Front Range Mountains while surrounded by golden cottonwoods are a sight to see.