Brainard Lake Recreation Area
Wilderness, Mountains, Trails
Mountains
Sports & Recreation, Outdoors, Photography
The fee is only assessed during the summer operating season. An additional fee is required for camping at the Pawnee Campground.
Mobility Obstacles: Extended Walking Required
Dirt/off-road walking
Eating: This is NOT a good place to get a meal or snack.
Notes: This is your standard, wilderness, no-plumbing toilet. Don't expect perfumed towels and a restroom attendant, but the facilities here will get the job done.
Brainard Lake Recreation Area
Hiking, Camping, and Fishing in Indian Peaks
| Address: | Phone: |
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Brainard Lake Rd (NF 112) West of Ward, CO |
+1 970 295 6600 (USDA Forest Service) |
Description
This popular wilderness playground is located south of the Rocky Mountain National Park in the Roosevelt National Forest just west of Ward. At an elevation above 10,000 feet, the cool summers make this a nice refuge when the mercury has risen a bit too high down in Boulder and Denver. It's a also a great winter wonderland with loads of snowshoeing and cross country skiing available. The developed recreation area has campground and picnic facilities, vaulted toilets, and available drinking water for those looking to stay for a while. Fishing is permitted, but certain areas have seasonal closures to protect spawning Greenback Cutthroat Trout, so check before you bait up. Non-motorized boats are also allowed on Brainard Lake, but most people just come to the area for the spectacular hiking and breathtaking views.
Times & Dates
Open Hours: 24 hrsVisit Time: Half day(4hr)-Full day(8hr)
Best Time to Visit: This is a great spot to visit year-round.
Why Best: In the summer you can hike, in the winter you can ski or snowshoe.
Average Wait Time: None
Notes: If you're planning on camping at Pawnee Campground, the even numbered campsites are by reservation only, but the odd numbered ones are first-come, first-served.
Price: $5-$10
Price Notes: The fee is only assessed during the summer operating season. An additional fee is required for camping at the Pawnee Campground.
Exposure
Outdoor with little or no covering.Age Recommendations/Requirements
Ages Admitted: All AgesAges that would most enjoy this site: All Ages
Groups that would most enjoy this site: Couples, Families, Friends, Groups
Transportation
Best Modes of Transportation:
Automobile/Car
Notes: From Boulder, it's easiest to go first to Nederland (17 miles west on Canyon Dr), and head north on Hwy 72 (Peak to Peak Hwy) once you hit the roundabout in the middle of town. Another 13 miles north, and you'll turn left on Brainard Lake Rd (NFSR 112).
Parking Availability: Yes
Average Price per Hour: $5-$10
Parking Safety: Safe
Notes: A flat day-use fee is required to drive in and enjoy the park. In the winter, there's no fee, but much of the road is closed, and you'll have to park outside of the gate and hike, ski, or snowshoe in on the road (which is pretty in itself).
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