Brainard Lake Recreation Area: Dog-friendly adventure guide

Nestled in the heart of Colorado’s Indian Peaks Wilderness, Brainard Lake Recreation Area is a breathtaking alpine escape known for its crystal-clear lakes, rugged mountain peaks, and abundant wildlife. The landscape is worthy of National Park status, but in a much more manageable, laid back, and dog-friendly package. In this post, we share all the info you need to know to plan a trip to this incredible spot, and all of our favorite trails and activities.

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Introduction to Brainard Lake Recreation Area

dog standing on frozen lake in front of snowy mountains — Winter vista from Brainard Lake Picnic Area

Nestled in the heart of Colorado’s Indian Peaks Wilderness, Brainard Lake Recreation Area is a breathtaking alpine escape known for its crystal-clear lakes, rugged mountain peaks, and abundant wildlife. One of the peak destinations for hiking with dogs in Colorado, it’s one of those places that made me gasp out loud the first time I visited. Just an hour from Boulder in one direction, and an hour from Estes Park in the other, this outdoor haven offers year-round adventure, from hiking and fishing in the summer to snowshoeing and cross-country skiing in the winter. It’s a perfect alternative destination or side trip from Rocky Mountain National Park, because unlike RMNP, dogs are very welcome here! With its stunning scenery and all levels of hiking, Brainard Lake is the perfect destination for dog-loving outdoorsy folks interested in adventures in the Rocky Mountains.

woman in distance walking across rocky mountain — This area is filled with incredible alpine views

Brainard Lake is a popular area, but in the summer and fall their timed entry reservation system keeps crowds to a minimum. While this takes a bit of extra planning on the front end, it’s also part of what makes it such a great place to hike with dogs. Keep reading for all the information you need to plan a great trip to Brainard Lake.

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Land Acknowledgement

Brainard Lake Recreation Area is located on the ancestral homelands of the Tséstho’e (Cheyenne), Hinono’eino’ Biito’owu’ (Arapaho), & Núu-agha-tʉvʉ-pʉ̱ (Ute) peoples

To show respect to the native peoples who cared for these lands long before white settlers, we do several things:

Research and speak the names of the traditional guardians of the land. We use Native-land.ca
Ask permission from the land itself before we enter. It might seem silly, but the more this becomes a habit, the more you become attuned to the ways in which the land speaks.
Make donations to native-led organizations that support the communities whose ancestral lands were stolen.

Seasonal considerations: Best times to visit for hiking with dogs

dog standing on lakeshore in front of tall mountains — View from Lake Isabelle

Brainard Lake is a dog-friendly paradise, but it is very high elevation, with the lowest trailheads sitting just over 10,000 ft, and surrounded by 13ers, peaks over 13,000 ft tall. Because of the elevation, the snowpack necessitates some different regulations in each season.

Summer (Mid-June – Mid-August)

Timed entry reservations required (more information below)

pink wildflowers in front of mountains — Brainard Lake Recreation Area is filled with gorgeous wildflowers in the summer

Summer at Brainard Lake is breathtaking. The snow-capped peaks reflect off the crystal-clear waters, while lush meadows bloom with vibrant wildflowers. Visitors can spot moose, marmots, and eagles in their natural habitat. Summer brings mild temperatures, making it the perfect time to explore this high-altitude paradise.

Fall (Mid-August – Mid-November)

Timed entry reservations required (more information below)

Fall at Brainard Lake is a spectacular display of golden aspens, crisp mountain air, and stunning alpine views. As temperatures cool, the surrounding forests transform into vibrant shades of yellow and orange, creating a breathtaking contrast against the rugged peaks of the Indian Peaks Wilderness. Wildlife, including moose and elk, become more active, making it a prime time for photography and wildlife spotting. With cooler weather and the first hints of snow on the peaks, fall is a magical time to experience the beauty of Brainard Lake.

Winter season (Nov. 15 – April 30)

NO timed entry reservations needed

dog standing on snowy frozen lake in front of snow-capped mountains — Bonnie on the shore of Brainard Lake

Winter at Brainard Lake transforms the area into a serene, snow-covered wonderland, perfect for cross-country skiing, snowshoeing, and winter photography. The road to the lake closes due to heavy snowfall, but adventurers can access the area via the Brainard Lake Winter Trailhead. Towering evergreens blanketed in snow and frozen alpine lakes create a breathtaking backdrop. Wildlife sightings, such as moose and snowshoe hares, add to the quiet beauty of the season. With fewer visitors and a peaceful atmosphere, winter at Brainard Lake offers a true escape into the pristine wilderness of the Indian Peaks.

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Spring season (April 30 – Mid-June)

NO timed entry reservations needed

dog in backpack standing in front of snow and moutains — Bonnie admiring the view of green mixed with snow that permeates the area in the springtime

Springtime in the high elevation Rockies is beautiful and fickle. It’s not unusual to experience snow, wind, rain, and hot direct sun, all in one day! If you’re visiting during a warm stretch, expect a lot of melting snow, and muddy trails. If you’re visiting during a snowy stretch, expect it to feel like January. Checking the weather conditions beforehand and dressing in layers is always smart. You can never go wrong with throwing a pair of microspikes in your backpack, for hiking across packed snow, as well as a hat, gloves, and waterproof/windproof jacket for warmth.

Trail Etiquette and Rules for Dogs

When hiking with your dog at Brainard Lake, it’s essential to follow regulations to protect both nature and your pet. Always pick up and properly dispose of dog waste, as it contains excess nutrients and bacteria that can harm wildlife and water sources. Leashing your dog is required, to prevent encounters with wildlife like moose, mountain lions, and porcupines. Before hitting the trail, ensure your dog is fit for the hike, stays hydrated, and is protected from hazards like Giardia, rough terrain, and extreme weather. Carrying a pet first aid kit, using paw wax or dog booties, and keeping identification on your dog are all smart precautions. By being responsible, you help maintain access to public lands for dogs while ensuring a safe and enjoyable experience for everyone on the trail.

Note: Dogs are not allowed on many trails from Nov. 15 – April 30. However, dogs ARE allowed to hike, snowshoe, and cross-country ski with you on the roads throughout the park, which are just as beautiful! See below for dog-friendly winter options.

Dog-friendly trails at Brainard Lake

dog looking at camera in front of rocky mountains and alpine lake

Dog walking through green meadow in front of mountains

two dogs standing on a snowy frozen lake

woman and two dogs standing on a frozen lake in front of snowy mountains

forested rocky mountains and alpine lake

dog standing in front of forested rocky mountains and alpine lake

two dogs standing in front of rainy mountains.

dog standing in front of forest and yellow wildflowers in the foreground

dog standing in front of forest and white and purple wildflowers in the foreground

Our favorite trails in Summer & Fall

Note: In the summer & fall, dogs are allowed on ALL trails in the park. Below are our favorites.

🐾☀️Jean Lunning Trail and Pawnee Pass Loop

Trailhead: Long Lake Trailhead
Length: 2.9 mi
Elevation Gain: 180 ft
Trail Info on Alltrails
Timed Entry Reservation: Long Lake Parking

🐾☀️Lake Isabelle and Long Lake, Jean Lunning Loop

Trailhead: Long Lake Trailhead
Length: 4.9 mi
Elevation Gain: 475 ft
Trail Info on Alltrails
Timed Entry Reservation: Long Lake Parking

🐾☀️Isabelle Glacier via Pawnee Pass Trail

Trailhead: Long Lake Trailhead
Length: 8.6 mi
Elevation Gain: 1,653 ft
Trail Info on Alltrails
Timed Entry Reservation: Long Lake Parking

🐾☀️Blue Lake via Mitchell Lake Trail

Trailhead: Mitchell Lake Trailhead
Length: 5.6 mi
Elevation Gain: 977 ft
Trail Info on Alltrails
Timed Entry Reservation: Mitchell Lake/Beaver Creek Parking

🐾☀️Mount Audubon via Beaver Creek and Mount Audubon Trail

Trailhead: Beaver Creek Trailhead
Length: 7.6 mi
Elevation Gain: 2,680 ft
Trail Info on Alltrails
Timed Entry Reservation: Mitchell Lake/Beaver Creek Parking

Our favorite trails in Winter & Spring

Note: These are the only trails dogs are allowed to hike in the winter, which helps preserve the delicate trail terrain for snowshoeing and cross country skiing

🐾❄️Brainard Lake from Gateway Trailhead

Trailhead: Gateway Trailhead
Length: 4.7 mi
Elevation Gain: 472 ft
Trail Info on Alltrails

🐾❄️Niwot Mountain Summit Route via Left Hand Reservoir Road

Trailhead: Gateway Trailhead
Length: 5.6 mi
Elevation Gain: 1,414 ft
Trail Info on Alltrails

🐾❄️Wapiti and Sourdough Trail Loop

Trailhead: Gateway Trailhead
Length: 6.8 mi
Elevation Gain: 1,069 ft
Trail Info on Alltrails

Planning your trip: Costs

When you’re planning to visit Brainard Lake, you must consider two costs: A daily use fee, as well as a timed entry parking reservation fee. The daily fee applies in all seasons, while the timed entry is only required in summer and fall.

1. Daily Use Cost (Required in all seasons)

There is a $10/vehicle daily fee to enter Brainard Lake Recreation Area. However, a National Parks Annual Pass is accepted in lieu of the daily fee. We highly recommend this annual purchase, as it saves you money at National Parks, plus so much more! Many wilderness areas are managed by the National Park Service and/or Forest Service, such as this one – Brainard Lake.

2. Timed Entry Reservations (Summer & Fall Only)

In addition to daily use fees, one of the most important things to know about visiting this area during these seasons is you must purchase timed entry parking reservations in advance from June – October to access the upper trailheads. There is a $2/vehicle fee to make the reservation if you have a National Parks Annual Pass, or you can pay $14/vehicle when you make your reservation that covers your parking and daily entry.

You will want to know which trail you plan to hike to make the most of your experience. (See trail descriptions in our section below: Dog-friendly trails at Brainard Lake)

🚙Brainard Lake Picnic Site/Trailhead Parking – All trailheads can be accessed from this lot, which is the largest. However, if you plan to hike Long Lake or Blue Lake, know that parking here will add a considerable amount of length to your hike. This parking is best if you plan to picnic, or hike around Brainard Lake.

🚙Long Lake Parking – This parking is best if you plan to hike the Long Lake Trail, Lake Isabelle, or Isabelle Glacier.

🚙Mitchell Lake/Beaver Creek Parking – This parking is best if you plan to hike Mitchell Lake, Blue Lake, or Mt. Audubon.

Purchase timed entry parking reservations and daily entrance here

Staying safe around wildlife

When hiking in Brainard Lake Recreation area, it’s likely you will encounter wildlife such as squirrels, elk, deer, and birds, while predators like bears and mountain lions also hunt this land. It’s imperative that you do some research and know how to keep yourself and your dog safe around various animals. General rules include: Keep your dog on a leash, never let them chase any wild animal, and carry bear spray (and know how to use it!) One animal is so plentiful here, however, that I’ve literally seen one every time we’ve hiked here – MOOSE.

Moose sitting on a lakeshore — Your likelihood of encountering moose in this park is very high. They are usually pretty occupied with doing whatever they are doing. But keep a distance and keep your dog from antagonizing them!

Keep your dog safe around moose

To stay safe around moose while hiking with your dog, always keep your dog on a leash and maintain a safe distance if you encounter one. Moose see dogs as predators and may become aggressive if they feel threatened. Avoid areas with fresh moose tracks or signs of recent activity, especially during calving season in spring and the fall rut. If a moose charges, do not run—back away slowly and seek cover behind trees or large objects. Prevent your dog from barking or chasing moose, as this can provoke an attack. Staying alert, giving moose plenty of space, and keeping your dog under control are key to avoiding dangerous encounters.