[Hike] Lake Isabelle

This is my favorite hike in the Denver + Boulder metro area! I love looking at a lake with mountains in the background and this hike delivers on both! There are several different trails you can take from the Brainard Lake rec area and really can make it your own! 

This area is very popular and a reservation system is in place for the busier summer months. If you cannot get a reservation, then you can park at the Gateway Trailhead [which is what I did]. The major downside [or upside if you’re looking for more miles] is that it is almost 2 miles from Brainard Lake. 

I would highly recommend making your way to Lake Isabelle for the awesome view of lake + mountains I mentioned above. You can go past the lake and continue onto Isabelle Glacier which I plan to do in the future or head up to Blue Lake. 

Another big plus was the loop availability for most of this hike. I hiked in and out on the Waldrop Trail but then was able to hike out on the south side of Brainard Lake and Long Lake and hike back on the north side. There is only a single trail out to Lake Isabelle though, which can get very busy!

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Good to Know

Distance: 12.3 miles along the Waldrop Trail 814 > Brainard Lake Road > Niwot 907.2 > Jean Lenning 907.1 > Pawnee Pass 907 > South St Vrain > Waldrop 814

Elevation Gain: ~1320ft

Terrain: Dirt path + rocky path at different sections

Parking: Available at Gateway Trailhead

Facilities:  Available at Gateway Trailhead 

Fun Facts: You can cut this hike down dramatically by parking at either Brainard Lake or Long Lake. Please note you will NEED a reservation during the summer months and the winter lot is at the Gateway Trailhead! 

Strava Link