McIntosh Lake is Longmont's premier paddleboarding and kayaking destination, offering stunning Front Range views of Longs Peak and Mount Meeker from the water — all completely free of charge. Located on the west side of Longmont in Boulder County, this no-motorboat lake provides calm, quiet water that makes it one of the best stand-up paddleboarding spots along the Front Range. Unlike nearby Union Reservoir or Boulder Reservoir, McIntosh Lake requires no permits or entry fees for boating, making it an easy choice for a spontaneous afternoon on the water.
A 3.5-mile walking and biking trail loops entirely around the lake, with roughly two-thirds paved and the remainder compacted gravel. The trail is flat, easy, and e-bike friendly, drawing walkers, joggers, runners, and cyclists year-round. The east and south sides of the trail offer decent shade, while the west and north stretches are exposed with little cover — bring water if walking midday in summer. Benches, gazebos, and rest areas are spaced around the loop, with a restroom available roughly halfway around.
McIntosh Lake is a haven for bird watching in Boulder County. The surrounding wetlands support a diverse population of waterfowl, migratory birds, and eagles. A prairie dog town on the northwest shore adds to the wildlife viewing. Coyotes and other animals are occasionally spotted along the trail.
Flanders Park on the north side anchors the main recreation area with parking, a basketball court, picnic pavilion, playground, and restrooms. The east side offers additional parking, tennis courts, and a volleyball court. Two boat ramps provide lake access — the south ramp is recommended for launching paddleboards and kayaks, as the north ramp location shown on Google Maps can be misleading. Dogs are welcome throughout the park with doggy waste stations provided along the trail.
Swimming is not permitted at McIntosh Lake, and seasonal algae blooms can occasionally affect water quality. Fishing is possible but secondary to paddling activities. The lake is especially popular for sunset viewing, with the mountains creating a dramatic western backdrop. Summer concerts are occasionally held lakeside. Weekend mornings fill up quickly — parking spills onto residential streets, so arriving early is recommended. Weekday visits and early mornings offer a much quieter experience with the lake nearly to yourself.