Brainard Lake Rec Area - Winter Gateway

The Brainard Lake Recreation Area, part of the Indian Peaks Wilderness, is set in a glacially carved valley with spectacular views of Brainard Lake, surrounding forest, and a number of high peaks along the Continental Divide. 

Brainard requires parking and area entry pass reservations the rest of the year, but winter recreationists can park at the Gateway Trailhead/Winter Parking Lot without a permit or paying a fee, then enter the area on foot. 

See an excellent USFS Winter Recreation Map here.

CMC's Brainard Lake Hut can be reserved for overnight stays. From about 10:00 to 2:30 on most winter weekend days, the cabin is open to all visitors wishing to warm up and have some hot cocoa.  $1 per person donation requested.

 

Alternate titles - 

Sourdough Trail #835 - 1.2 miles within Brainard but can be followed to the South Sourdough TH, 13 miles

Brainard Lake Rd - 2 miles

Lefthand Reservoir Rd - 2 miles

Lake Isabelle - 11.2 miles, 1300 feet elevation gain

Mitchell Lake - 8.2 miles, 1000 feet elevation gain

Blue Lake - 11.2 miles, 1650 elevation gain

Skiers only:
Little Raven Ski Trail#802 - 1.7 miles

Red Rock TH - CMC Ski Trail 814.2 - 2.8 miles

• Suitable Activities: Backcountry Nordic Skiing, Camping, Nordic Skiing, Snowshoeing
• Seasons: January, February, March, April, November, December
• Weather: View weather forecast
• Avalanche Terrain Rating Simple View avalanche forecast.

• Land Manager: U.S. Forest Service
  Indian Peaks Wilderness Area, Boulder Ranger District (ARNF)
• Parking Permit Required: USFS Permits & Passes
• Recommended Party Size: 12
• Maximum Party Size: 12
• Maximum Route/Place Capacity: 12