Near Switchback Trail
A hiker inspects the dam outlet into North St. Vrain Creek.
Near Switchback Trail
Heading up the steeper Switchback Trail on the side of the dam to the reservoir, keep your eyes peeled for lizards! (Photo taken when dogs were permitted, before 5/15/23).
Near Switchback Trail
If you get a chance, look down on the dam release into the creek. The mist is cool and refreshing on hot days.
Near Switchback Trail
Topped out on the Switchback Trail, enjoy the first views of the reservoir.
Near Switchback Trail
The final stretch of the Switchback Trail. Photo taken when dogs were permitted (before 5/15/23).

Looking for more photos?

View All Photos
View Map
Driving Directions
Hike Trail

Switchback Trail

3.5 (2 Ratings)
A short and steeper climb to Ralph Price Reservoir. The views across the water are worth the effort.
0.2
mi
Distance
198
ft
Gain
moderate
Difficulty
LakeViewsWildflowers
Access Issues
As of May 15, 2023, no dogs allowed at Button Rock Preserve (more info here: https://www.longmontcolorado.gov/departments/departments-n-z/parks-open-space-and-trails/directory-of-parks-trails/button-rock-preserve).

Route Details

Flatter
Steeper
0.24mi
Distance
198ft
Elevation Gain
3ft
Elevation Loss
30%
Max Grade
6,441ft
High Point
6,232ft
Low Point
Path Type
Point to Point
Description
After making your way to the base of the dam, this trail zig-zags up the side of the hill, providing access to the reservoir itself. It is short but steeper than the surrounding roads so take it slow and watch your footing as some areas are loose and eroding. Keep an eye on the trail at the ends of the switchbacks as there are user trails that shortcut the turns. These are often looser and steeper so do your best to stay on the flatter, official trail. At the top, you can continue northwest on the North Shore Trail or head south along the top of the dam on the South Cove Trail.

Route Conditions

Report Conditions
No Condition Reports
Report Conditions

Nearby Hike Routes

Button Rock Mountain Lollipop

Hike Route

Button Rock Mountain Lollipop

Birding
strenuous
8.57 mi
+1,449 ft
Hall Ranch Loop

Classic Hike Route

Hall Ranch Loop

Birding
moderate
9.49 mi
+1,508 ft
Hall Ranch: Nighthawk Trail

Hike Route

Hall Ranch: Nighthawk Trail

Less Crowded
moderate
4.51 mi
+1,387 ft
Picture Rock+Wild Turkey+Ponderosa Lollipop

Classic Hike Route

Picture Rock+Wild Turkey+Ponderosa Lollipop

Birding
strenuous
14.84 mi
+1,449 ft
Heil - Picture Rock Combo

Hike Route

Heil - Picture Rock Combo

Fall Colors
moderate
20.64 mi
+2,234 ft
Rabbit Mountain

Hike Route

Rabbit Mountain

Birding
moderate
5.89 mi
+716 ft
Contributors
Zander Gopfert