In spring and summer the trail leading to the lake is strewn with colorful wildflowers, and the snow-capped peaks provide the perfect backdrop for a fun family picnic. He has a passion for the outdoors and making outdoor education and adventure more accessible. Little or no snow accumulation expected. All rights reserved. Generally considered a challenging route, it takes an average of 4 h 12 min to complete. Views of the peaks of Niwot Ridge pop out over the hillsides at this point. These trails have an average 4.5-star rating from 13,906 AllTrails community reviews. Turn west onto County Road 102 towards the Brainard Lake Recreation Area. Note: Timed-entry permit reservations are required in RMNP from May 28 to October 11, 2022. Glad I stumbled in your blog. Along Long Lake, there are tons of great areas to snack, fish, or enjoy the views. Pre-hike Buzz: Whether youre about to begin your hike, or just hopping off of the trail, Salto Coffee Works in nearby Nederland is an excellent place to fuel up pre-hike, or to grab a rewarding post-hike adult beverage. Please note: The upper trailhead parking lots (Long Lake, Mitchell Lake, Niwot) are not scheduled to open until July 1. Partly sunny, with a high near 40. Brainard Lake Picnic Site/Trailhead - Day Use Parking - Recreation.gov Parking Lot Longitude. Tennis shoes are not the answer. I asked on my way out how long it will be until they open the road around Brainard Lake and to the trail heads. A slight chance of snow showers before 9pm. The climb is easy for the first third, gets a little harder in the middle and becomes a moderate climb up through the rocky assent to the falls, but does not require any special equipment, not even a walking pole. For an aerial view, climb a few hundred yards up the Pawness Pass Trail, which splits north through treeline over the lake basin. During this time there will be fewer people on the trails and its ideal for snowshoeing. 100% of travelers recommend this experience. Soon you will enter the stunningIndian Peaks Wilderness area. Parking reservations are only valid for the date, time, and parking lot listed on the reservation. It's the fastest way to ask us for help and track our arrival. We've got you covered, with trails ranging from 27 to 1,020 meters in elevation gain.