Stroll, jog, canoe, kayak, paddle boat. Marvel at the stunning, mountainous panorama stretching out along the horizon. Or, simply enjoy the serenity of the quiet, rippling water. All this is at our fingertips, at McIntosh Lake.
Located south of State Highway 66, north of Hygiene Road, McIntosh Lake was originally called Dawson Lake, after John Dawson (1839-1917), who joined the Chicago-Colorado Colony in 1871, and farmed east of Hygiene. It was later renamed for pioneer George R. McIntosh, who came to the Front Range seeking health and wealth. McIntosh hoped the mountain air would improve his asthma.
In 1878, McIntosh built the lakeside Victorian frame farmhouse off Highway 66 to accommodate a growing family. Today the peaceful water, surrounded by trail and fed from the St. Vrain Creek by a series of ditches, provides a perfect venue for walks, runs, family picnics, boating and more.
In addition to splendid views of the Front Range, including Mt. Meeker and Longs Peak, the reservoir and its surrounding environment is habitat to a wide range of wildlife species. The lake is also flanked by two public parks, located along the eastern edge:
Dawson, and Flanders. Both parks have restroom, picnic, and playground facilities.
April is a big month for Lake McIntosh, with the annual Mud Hen 5K being a unique draw for Longmont's active community. "The Mud Hen is special because of its simplicity," says Suellen Dabney, organizer of the event for the 3rd time this year. "There are no streets, so it's a great race for youngsters and individuals who do not want to mess with car traffic. It also provides beautiful, unobstructed views, plus a chance for families to enjoy the Lake and scenery together." Dabney says that, due to the unpredictable nature of Colorado's weather, race wear is typically a last-minute decision. But one thing is certain, whether wet, rainy, snowy, bright, or blustery weather, the Mud Hen is fun. If you haven't already, register today!
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