My mom suggested we take a day trip to Brainard Lake, so we packed up a few snacks and headed out the door! After a quick 45-minute drive through beautiful Left Hand Canyon, we arrived at this peaceful mountain lake surrounded by gorgeous peaks. This simple, yet stunning spot is perfect for a hike (short or long!), a picnic, a short stroll around the lake, and a great place to witness Colorado’s wildlife.
Let the Kids Play on the Beach
There are a handful of beach-like areas where the kids can take off their shoes and wade into the crystal clear waters. My kids loved climbing on rocks and exploring the shallows in search of lake creatures!
Take a Hike or a Short Stroll
There are a ton of hiking trails around the Brainard Lake Recreation Area, but we opted for a stroll around the lake. There is a paved road, half of which is closed to cars, that is both wheelchair friendly and stroller friendly.
Witness Colorado’s Wildlife
On our way up my mom was really hopeful that we would see a moose, but I was unconvinced. I’ve lived here for 26 years and I’ve never seen one with my own eyes. But Brainard Lake delivered! After seeing a ton of signs regarding moose habitats and moose behavior, we were thrilled to see moose chewing on bushes right there alongside the road. I was startled, then delighted! My mom and kids were thrilled. Here is a picture of one of the moose we saw, as well as some safety information for folks who are considering making a trip to Brainard Lake.
Moose at Brainard Lake Recreation Area
Bring the Dog
Unlike the national parks, Brainard Lake is in a national forest, so dogs on a leash are allowed! We saw a ton of cute dogs being walked by their owners, and we plan to bring our own furry friend the next time we visit.
Photo by Rami Boneh via Facebook
Picnic Areas, Bathrooms, and Other Conveniences
There are several picnic areas around the lake, perfect spots for a snack or a packed lunch. There are also several bathrooms for your convenience. There are also trash cans and recycling bins near the picnic areas.
Brainard Lake Recreation Area is located at Brainard Lake Rd, Ward, CO 80481. Admission is $11/car. Admission is free with an annual national parks pass. For all the details, click here.
