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Mitchell Lake (#912)
Length: Mitchell Lake Trailhead (TH) to Blue Lake – 2.5 miles. DISTANCES ARE ONE-WAY
Elevation: 10,500 feet at the Mitchell Lake TH; 11,300 feet at Blue Lake.
Trail Description: The wooded Mitchell Lake Trail enters the Indian Peaks Wilderness near the bridge across Mitchell Creek. It continues on a good trail for a half-mile to Mitchell Lake and crosses a bridge over the inlet.
Another 1.5 miles of trail climbs a bit more steeply, then follows the creek in an open valley to Blue Lake. This lake lies at tree line below Mount Toll, a cone-shaped pinnacle on the Continental Divide. When under snow cover, it is very easy to lose the trail close attention is necessary.
Click here for a trail summary.
View a trail map here.
At a Glance
| Fees: | Brainard Lake Recreation Area fees apply during the summer operating season (typically mid/late-June through late September). |
|---|---|
| Permit Info: | This trail lies within the Four Lakes Backcountry Zone of the Indian Peaks Wilderness Area:
|
| Usage: | Heavy |
| Best Season: | Hiking conditions are best from July through October |
| Restrictions: | Indian Peak Wilderness restrictions apply:
|
| Closest Towns: | Ward, Colorado |
| Water: | Lakes and streams treat water for drinking. |
| Restroom: | Practice Leave No Trace principles |
| Operated By: | U.S. Forest Service |
General Information
Directions:From Colorado Highway 72 at Ward, turn west onto the Brainard Lake Road. Travel 2.5 miles to the entrance portal, and continue another three miles to Mitchell Creek Trailhead.
Accessibility:
Due to its high elevation, the Brainard area is not generally snow-free until late June or even July in some years. The seasonally-open Brainard Lake Road may be open as late as November 14, but typically is closed due to snow by late October. Strong skiers and snowshoers enjoy this trail in winter, accessed from Red Rock Trailhead.