Brainard Lake Recreation Area Timed Tickets

The Brainard Lake Recreation Area is uniquely set in a glacially carved valley offering visitors spectacular panoramic views of Brainard Lake, surrounding subalpine forest, and high peaks along the Continental Divide. This is arguably the most popular destination on the Boulder Ranger District.

The Area serves as a key gateway to the Indian Peaks Wilderness, the most-accessible Wilderness area from the Denver metro area. Only two hours from Denver via I-70 and the Peak-to-Peak Scenic Byway, the trailheads for Wilderness camping or popular day hikes as well as fishing, camping, picnicking, hiking, snowshoeing, cross-country skiing, and other dispersed recreation opportunities both in and outside the Indian Peaks Wilderness all begin in Brainard Lake Recreation Area.

This area uses a timed ticket reservation system to protect it from excessive human impacts, help meet local health department requirements, and facilitate a positive recreation experience.

From Colorado Highway 72 at Ward, turn west onto Brainard Lake Road. Travel 2.5 miles to the Brainard Lake Recreation Area Welcome Station. The Welcome Station is open seasonally. Typically, mid-June to mid-October. Note: Once you get close to Brainard Lake Recreation Area, cell phone coverage is poor for all carriers.