Can you walk around Brainard Lake?
Take a Hike or a Short Stroll There are a ton of hiking trails around the Brainard Lake Recreation Area, but we opted for a stroll around the lake. There is a paved road, half of which is closed to cars, that is both wheelchair friendly and stroller friendly.
Where do you park at Brainard Lake?
Available Tickets
- Mitchell Lake Trailhead – Day Use Parking.
- Long Lake Trailhead – Day Use Parking.
- Niwot Picnic Site/Trailhead – Day Use Parking.
- Brainard Lake Picnic Site/Trailhead – Day Use Parking.
- Red Rock Lake Picnic Site – Day Use Parking.
- Overnight Parking Permit – Mitchell Lake.
- Overnight Parking Permit – Long Lake.
How much does Brainard Lake cost?
A day pass to Brainard Lake typically costs $12 per vehicle during the summer season which is July through mid-October. Brainard Lake Recreation Area is managed by the US Forest Service. You can find more information about fees and guidelines here.
Do I need a reservation for Brainard Lake?
A timed-entry reservation is required to enter Brainard Lake Recreation Area. There is no fee to park at the Gateway Trailhead and enter by foot/bike.
Is Lake Isabelle drained 2020?
“Lake Isabelle Has been drained by Left Hand Water Company to restore its status as an irrigation reservoir.
How far is the hike to Lake Isabelle?
Lake Isabelle
Trail Features: | Subalpine Lake, Outstanding Views |
Trail Location: | Long Lake Trailhead (Brainard Lake Area) |
Roundtrip Length: | 4.4 Miles |
Trailhead Elevation: | 10,505 Feet |
Total Elevation Gain: | 440 Feet |
Can you kayak at Brainard Lake?
Exploring Brainard Lake Just a short walk from the parking lot provides access to the lake for fishing, kayaking or just enjoying the epic Continental Divide mountains that look over this serene area.
Is Lake Isabelle trail open?
Hikers should note that Brainard Lake Road is usually open from mid-June through mid-October, depending on weather. After departing from the trailhead and walking roughly 0.15 miles, hikers will reach the Indian Peaks Wilderness boundary.
Can you kayak on Brainard Lake?
There are no restrictions on boats or any fees to use the lake. Visitors can rent a pontoon boats, whalers, kayaks, canoes and paddleboards to enjoy the exceptional views of the western side of the Front Range.
Does Brainard Lake have snow?
In winter, the road into the lakes is almost always wind swept, but the trails in the trees often have lots of snow.
Can you swim in Lake Isabelle?
Swimming is permitted only in the area so designated; in the area in front of the bathhouse and marked by the buoys, and only when a lifeguard is on duty.
Why is Lake Isabelle drained?
Isabella Dam deficiency In 2006, Isabella Dam was found to be too unstable to hold a full amount of water and approximately 40% of a full reservoir had to be let out to restabilize the earth works.
How many miles are there in Brainard Lake?
We’ve got 3 easy trails in Brainard Lake Recreation Area ranging from 2.9 to 5.6 miles and from 10,062 to 10,639 feet above sea level. Start checking them out and you’ll be out on the trail in no time!
Where is Brainard Lake ski trail in Colorado?
Brainard Lake via Waldrop and Ski Trail is a 6.3 mile heavily trafficked loop trail located near Ward, Colorado that features a lake and is rated as moderate. The trail is primarily used for hiking and snowshoeing. Dogs are also able to use this trail but must be kept on leash.
Where is the Gateway Trail in Brainard Lake?
Visitors may hike at the Gateway Trailhead, at the closed gate. However, this will add 5 miles round-trip to this hike. Parking at the Gateway Trailhead does not require a fee, as you are parking outside of the recreation area. This hike starts at the Long Lake Trailhead.
Is the road through Brainard Lake closed in October?
From mid-October to mid-June, the road through Brainard Lake Recreation Area is closed. Visitors may park outside of the gate at the Gateway Trailhead. This is free, but it adds 2.5 miles one-way to the hike. Trail starts at the Mitchell Lake trailhead at the western corner of the parking lot.