Brainard Lake is a beautiful alpine lake in the Indian Peaks Wilderness below the Continental Divide surrounded by subalpine forest. It is in the Brainard Lake Recreation Area, which during the summer season usually requires a reservation and a fee, but if you are on your bike you do not need to pay or reserve a time slot. Because of the area's high elevation, snow typically remains until late spring, even on the paved road to the lake.

Christopher

August 7, 2023

Hiking

Brainard Lake Recreation Area is set in a glacially carved valley offering visitors spectacular panoramic views of Brainard Lake, surrounding subalpine forest, and high peaks along the Continental Divide. Because of the area's high elevation, snow typically remains until July.

Christopher

November 15, 2023

Running

Routes here

Best routes to Brainard Lake

4.0

(1)

hikers

1. Lakes loop via Pawnee Pass Trail — Indian Peaks Wilderness

17.4km

04:57

270m

Wilderness trail through wildflower meadows to alpine lakes framed by towering Indian Peaks.

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Moderate

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2. South Saint Vrain Trail to Brainard Lake — Indian Peaks Wilderness — Roosevelt National Forest

19.9km

05:44

500m

Creek-side trail through lodgepole pines leading to pristine Brainard Lake with Continental Divide reflections.

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Hard

4.5

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hikers

3. Red Rock Lake – Brainard Lake loop from South Saint Vrain Creek

9.36km

02:37

120m

Moderate hike. Good fitness required. Mostly accessible paths. Sure-footedness required.

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Moderate

Details

Informations

Elevation 3,150 m

Weather

Thursday 12 February

0°C

-8°C

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Location: Boulder County, Colorado, United States

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Brainard Lake

1. Lakes loop via Pawnee Pass Trail — Indian Peaks Wilderness

2. South Saint Vrain Trail to Brainard Lake — Indian Peaks Wilderness — Roosevelt National Forest

3. Red Rock Lake – Brainard Lake loop from South Saint Vrain Creek

Other Popular Places to Check Out

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