Trip
Hiking – Brainard Lake Rec Area - Mitchell Lake Trailhead
A chance to try some off-trail hiking. We will hike past Mitchell Lake to Blue Lake in the Brainard Lake Recreation Area. At Blue Lake, we'll leave the trail, head up the ridge to the west, and summit Pawnee Peak, and head back via Pawnee Pass and Lake Isabelle.
Contacts
- Fri, Aug 15, 2025
- Denver
- Hiking
- Adults
- Difficult
- Mileage: 12.0 mi
- Elevation Gain: 2,900 ft
- High Point Elevation: 12,942 ft
- Pace: 1.5 mph with 1000' gain per hour
- 10 (10 capacity)
- 2 (2 capacity)
- Cancellation & Refund Policy
Please sign up only if you plan on hiking with us. Roster churn a few days before a hike makes it difficult for other hikers to plan to attend.
In addition, take note of the pace of this hike. It is not a fast pace, and we will stay together as a group to assure that everyone can follow the off-trail portion of the hike.
I will send out more information and a weather forecast several days before the hike.
Meet at Golden Gate Canyon Rd Parking area at 5:15 for a prompt 5:30 am departure. Golden Gate Canyon Rd Parking is located on the southwest corner of the intersection of CO 93 and Golden Gate Canyon Rd. The early meeting time is necessary because much of this hike is above timberline.
We will park in the main (large) Brainard Lake Parking lot, and hike from there. We'll need timed entry permits for each car to enter the Brainard Lake Area.
Brainard Lake Rec Area - Mitchell Lake Trailhead
Required Equipment
Here is a list of some recommended equipment:
Sturdy, waterproof hiking boots, rain gear - pants and jacket, hat, hiking poles (if you use them), warm layers, sunscreen, plenty of water and snacks (this will be a long day).