🏖️ Lake / Reservoir
🟢 Easy $16/vehicle daily pass plus $2 reservation fee Reservation Required ⚠️ Safety Note
🌊 About Brainard Lake Recreation Area
One of the most accessible alpine lakes on the Front Range — literally steps from the parking lot — though very popular and busy on weekends given its proximity to Boulder/Denver.
📋 Visit Details
Entry Fee
$16/vehicle daily pass plus $2 reservation fee
Water Temperature
💧 Very cold, high-alpine (~10,300 ft elevation)
Water Type
High-alpine lake, drive-up access
Managed By
US Forest Service (Arapaho-Roosevelt NF)
County
Boulder County, Colorado
🗺️ Getting There
Address / Access Point:
Brainard Lake Rd, near Ward, CO 80481
Access Notes:
Very easy — lake is steps from the parking area, unlike nearby Lake Isabelle/Mitchell Lake which require hiking
✅ Before You Go — Checklist
-
✓
Check current water conditions — especially after recent rain
-
!
Reservation required — book in advance or you may be turned away
-
✓
Save GPS coordinates offline before leaving — cell service may be limited
-
$
Bring cash or card for entry: $16/vehicle daily pass plus $2 reservation fee
-
✓
Pack reef-safe sunscreen, dry bag, water shoes and plenty of drinking water
-
✓
Tell someone where you are going before heading to a remote location
-
✓
Pack out everything you bring in — leave no trace