Brainard Lake Rec Area - Winter Gateway

This Route & Place is about the Brainard Lake Recreation Area in winter.  For summer  activities, see Brainard Lake Rec Area - Summer.

Note: Indian Peaks Wilderness restrictions for permits, parking, and entry vary by season and trailhead. Go here for current information. 

The Brainard Lake Recreation Area, part of the Indian Peaks Wilderness, is set in a glacially carved valley with spectacular views of Brainard Lake, surrounding forest, and a number of high peaks along the Continental Divide. 

The USFS now requires a $10 per car parking fee at the Gateway/Winter Parking Lot during the Winter season (mid-October thru mid-June) at Brainard Lake Recreation Area. A self-service fee station is located onsite, near the bathrooms. America the Beautiful Interagency Passes are honored in lieu of paying fee. For more information see: Brainard Lake Gateway Trailhead

See an excellent USFS Winter Recreation Map here.

CMC's Brainard Lake Hut can be reserved for overnight stays. From about 10:00 to 2:30 on most winter weekend days, the cabin is open to all visitors wishing to warm up and have some hot cocoa.  $1 per person donation requested.

Alternate titles - 

Sourdough Trail #835 - 1.2 miles within Brainard but can be followed to the South Sourdough TH, 13 miles

Brainard Lake Rd - 2 miles

Lefthand Reservoir Rd - 2 miles

Lake Isabelle - 11.2 miles, 1300 feet elevation gain

Mitchell Lake - 8.2 miles, 1000 feet elevation gain

Blue Lake - 11.2 miles, 1650 elevation gain

Skiers only:
Little Raven Ski Trail#802 - 1.7 miles

Red Rock TH - CMC Ski Trail 814.2 - 2.8 miles

• Suitable Activities: Backcountry Nordic Skiing, Camping, Nordic Skiing, Snowshoeing
• Seasons: January, February, March, April, May, June, October, November, December
• Weather: View weather forecast
• Avalanche Terrain Rating Simple View avalanche forecast.

• Land Manager: U.S. Forest Service
  Indian Peaks Wilderness Area, Boulder Ranger District (ARNF)
• Parking Permit Required: USFS Permits & Passes
• Recommended Party Size: 12
• Maximum Party Size: 12
• Maximum Route/Place Capacity: 12