Routes

Route planner

Features

Product updates

Get the App

Login or Signup

Get the App

Login or Signup

Discover
Places to see

United States

Colorado

Boulder County

Glendale

Left Hand Canyon - Ward - Brainard Lake Climb

Discover
Places to see

United States

Colorado

Boulder County

Glendale

Left Hand Canyon - Ward - Brainard Lake Climb

Left Hand Canyon - Ward - Brainard Lake Climb

Recommended by 4 road cyclists

This Highlight goes through a protected area

Please check local regulations for: Roosevelt National Forest

Save

Share

  • More

    • Loading

    Location: Glendale, Boulder County, Colorado, United States

    Save

    Share

  • More

    • See rides here

    Take Me There

    Tips

    April 30, 2025

    The climb combining Left Hand Canyon, Ward, and Brainard Lake Road near Boulder, Colorado is a true Front Range epic, ascending nearly 5000ft over 22 miles to reach stunning alpine scenery above 10,000ft. Enjoy the long, gentle initial grades winding up scenic Left Hand Canyon, but prepare for the notoriously steep 'wall' section climbing into Ward village averaging a testing 8.5%, with ramps hitting 11-15%. After Ward, tackle the final steady climb towards Brainard Lake where the very high altitude significantly adds to the challenge. Crucially, Brainard Lake Road beyond the winter gate is closed out of season to all access until mid-June or early July due to deep snow (check US Forest Service status).

      July 28, 2025

      16 miles up the canyon & 1 mile before Ward fresh spring water for the taking.

        In the know? Log-in to add a tip for other adventurers!

        Sign up for free

        Details

        Informations

        Distance 35.0 km

        Uphill 1,590 m

        Downhill 130 m

        Weather

        Powered by AerisWeather

        Today

        Monday 22 September

        18°C

        5°C

        81 %

        If you start your activity now...

        Max wind speed: 11.0 km/h

        Most visited during

        January

        February

        March

        April

        May

        June

        July

        August

        September

        October

        November

        December

        See rides here

        Take Me There

        Loading

        Location: Glendale, Boulder County, Colorado, United States

        Other Popular Places to Check Out

        Explore
        RoutesRoute plannerFeaturesHikesMTB TrailsRoad cycling routesBikepacking
        B2B
        PartnersConnectEmbed routes
        Company
        AboutPressWhat's NewPioneersProduct UpdatesAmbassadorsAdventure Hub
        Community
        Help GuidesSupportKomoot Treasure Hunt
        Download the app
        Follow Us on Socials

        © komoot GmbH

        Privacy Policy
        Terms of Service
        Community guidelines
        Vulnerability disclosure program
        Imprint
        Information for law enforcement