Long Lake

Long Lake is an alpine gem at 10,500 feet in the Indian Peaks Wilderness of Boulder County, accessed through the Brainard Lake Recreation Area. The lake sits in a glacially carved basin surrounded by dense forest, wildflower meadows, and views of the Continental Divide. It serves as the primary trailhead for Lake Isabelle, Pawnee Pass, Pawnee Peak, Blue Lake, and the Isabelle Glacier, making it one of the most popular and versatile hiking destinations within a short drive of Denver and Boulder. Moose sightings are common in spring and fall, and elk have been spotted along the trail as well.

Hiking around Long Lake follows a relatively flat loop trail of about 2.3 miles with minimal elevation gain, making it accessible to families, children, and amateur hikers. The path passes through shaded forest, crosses boardwalks over wetlands, and follows streams feeding into the lake. Hiking clockwise around the lake is recommended for the best views. The trail surface is mostly soft dirt with some rocky sections that can twist ankles, so sturdy footwear helps. Fish are visible in the creeks, and the surrounding wildflowers bloom spectacularly in summer. For those wanting a longer outing, continuing past Long Lake to Lake Isabelle adds roughly four miles round trip with about 1,500 feet of total elevation gain, passing waterfalls, boulder fields, and increasingly dramatic mountain scenery.

Winter transforms the Long Lake area into a snowshoeing and backcountry skiing destination with marked trails ranging from easy to difficult. Powder snow depths can reach 4 to 20 inches, and snowshoes or microspikes are essential. Ice begins forming on the trail as early as October. The trails above treeline become very windy and exposed, and hikers should be prepared for cold temperatures and limited tree cover.

The Brainard Lake Recreation Area requires a timed entry reservation through Recreation.gov during peak season, and a state parks pass or entry fee applies. Parking at the Long Lake trailhead is limited, and the lot fills quickly even on weekdays. Early arrivals, particularly before 6 a.m., have the best chance of finding a spot. Overflow parking is available farther down the road but adds extra walking distance. Year-round vault toilets are available at the trailhead. Dogs are allowed on leash.

Long Lake is consistently described as one of the most scenic and accessible alpine hiking experiences near Denver. The combination of easy lakeside walking, options for more ambitious climbs to surrounding peaks, frequent wildlife encounters, and proximity to the Front Range makes it a standout destination in Boulder County for hikers, trail runners, photographers, and nature lovers across all seasons.