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Brainard Lake Recreation Area Seasonal Information
Brainard Lake Recreation Area is set in a glacially carved valley offering visitors spectacular panoramic views of Brainard Lake, surrounding subalpine forest, and high peaks along the Continental Divide. Because of the area's high elevation, snow typically remains until July. For road updates, check Boulder Ranger District Road Status.
CAUTION: Several trailheads, such as Long Lake and Mitchell Lake trailheads, lead west into Indian Peaks Wilderness. Visitors entering the Wilderness are responsible for following all Indian Peaks Wilderness regulations and permit requirements. Dogs must be on a leash in the Wilderness.
Requirements – A parking reservation is required to park inside Brainard Lake Recreation Area. See below to purchase parking reservations and view seasonal regulations for camping, pets, shooting, skiing, and more.
Parking
Brainard Lake Recreation Area uses a parking reservation system during the summer season to ensure enjoyment by all visitors and to protect and preserve the wilderness environment from the adverse impacts from overuse.
- Year-round parking is available without a reservation at Brainard Gateway Trailhead. This parking is located two miles from the lake.
- The main gate opens in mid-June and gives visitors parking access to the lower trailheads, which require parking reservations –
- Open June-October – lower trailheads – parking reservation required
- After the snow melts in July, access opens to the upper trailheads, which require parking reservations –
- Open July-October – upper trailheads – parking reservation required
- Opening dates vary due to weather. The gate at Brainard Gateway Trailhead stays open during the summer season, giving visitors 24/7 access.
- Bike racks are located near Brainard Gateway Trailhead and Mitchell Lake Trailhead. Visitors do not need a parking reservation to bike in and use bike racks. Bikes are not allowed in the Wilderness.
Camping
- Pawnee Campground opens in late-June
- Visit recreation.gov for seasons, availability, and to make a reservation.
- Visitors staying at Pawnee Campground are not required to have a Brainard Lake Recreation Area Parking Reservation as long as they remain parked in the campground.
- Visitors staying at Pawnee Campground are required to have a Brainard Lake Recreation Area Parking Reservation when parking outside of the campground.
- No dispersed camping allowed May 1 - Nov 14.
Shooting
- Target shooting closures are in place year-round in Brainard Lake Recreation Area. Hunting is allowed in accordance with regulations set by Colorado Parks & Wildlife.
Parking
- The main gate closes in mid-October. Visitors must park at Brainard Gateway Trailhead, no reservation required.
- Closing dates vary due to weather. Motorized activity is prohibited within Brainard Lake Recreation Area from November 15 – April 30.
Camping
- Pawnee Campground closes in mid-September. No campground camping allowed.
- Visit recreation.gov for exact seasons.
- Dispersed camping is allowed November 15 – April 30. Campsites must be 1/4 mile away from developed sites such as Pawnee campground, picnic areas and all trailheads.
Shooting
- Target shooting closures are in place year-round in Brainard Lake Recreation Area. Hunting is allowed in accordance with regulations set by Colorado Parks & Wildlife.
Pets
- November 15 – April 30 – dogs are only allowed on Brainard Lake and Lefthand Park Reservoir Roads, and Sourdough Trail (#835).
Skiing
- November 15 – April 30 – Only skis are allowed on Little Raven Ski Trail #802 & CMC Ski Trail #814.2