Long Lake Trail
View Photos
Long Lake Trail
Difficulty Rating:
This is a short and relatively easy hike with mild elevation gain. What’s even better is that it also offers amazing views around a scenic, lower alpine lake. This is a hike for all ages.
Getting there
From Boulder drive to and through the town of Ward. Turn right onto CO-72 then quickly turn left onto Brainard Lake Rd. Go through the pay gate heading to Long Lake Trailhead.
About
| When to do | Early June to Late September |
| Backcountry Campsites | Camping at Pawnee Campground |
| Toilets | Yes |
| Family friendly | Yes |
| Route Signage | Average |
| Crowd Levels | High |
| Route Type | Circuit |
Long Lake Trail
Elevation Graph
Weather
Route Description for Long Lake Trail
Begin this hike at the Long Lake Trailhead in the Brainard Lake Recreation Area inside the Indian Peaks Wilderness. In approximately a 0.3mi from the start of your hike you will arrive at a trail junction, turn left and cross over a small wooden bridge. You’ll continue the hike along the Jean Lunning Trail.
This scenic trail will circle you half way around Long Lake, providing you with views of the Indian Peaks, Long Lake, and some lush meadows flush with beautiful wildflowers (depending on the season of course).
You’ll travel over moderate terrain until reaching the end of the lake; the trail will reconnect with Pawnee Pass Trail. Make a right and continue to circle back around the opposite side of the lake. You will head back towards the trailhead and parking lot from here.
If you want to find other great hikes in Indian Peaks Wilderness, check out the Lone Eagle Peak hike, Lake Isabelle trail, Rainbow Lakes trail or the Arapaho Glacier Trail.
Insider Hints
An annual National Park Pass is accepted at the gate, otherwise Brainard Lake Recreation Area is Cash Only ($11 per Passenger Vehicle).
Gate Fees and more information can be found here.
Set out on this hike early to avoid the chance of getting caught in an afternoon or evening storm.
Similar hikes to the Long Lake Trail hike
Buchanan Pass Loop
The Buchanan Pass Loop is an awesome adventure trail. Adults and kids alike will enjoy this wildflower-speckled trail as it…
Betty and Bob Lakes via High Lonesome Trail
Betty and Bob Lakes via High Lonesome Trail is a short out-and-back trail to three of the most scenic lakes…
Sourdough Trail via South St. Vrain Hike
Looking for a relaxing hike through the lush Colorado woodlands? The Sourdough Trail via South St. Vrain Hike is a…
Adamcox 4 years ago
This was a dream come true for me and to share it with my kids was really special.
Suzy TQ 4 years ago
Such a nice enjoyable hike. We passed Long lake on the way to Lake Isabelle. It’s worth the extra mile or so to check out that lake as well. Highly recommend!
Tiffany Swift 4 years ago
This is a nice short hike with some amazing views! Highly recommend
BoulderBound 4 years ago
Absolutely gorgeous. You’ll feel some elevation change, but the path is in great and easy to follow.
merry g. 5 years ago
Superb hike. We enjoyed it even though it was very busy.
Jordan A. 5 years ago
Great hike for all ages. Wonderful views.
Michael L. 5 years ago
Lovely hike with minimal elevation gain. It's simply worth it!
Ricky J. 5 years ago
One of the most memorable hikes I've done with my family. It was a pleasant experience. There are lots of remarkable views and good resting spots.
Lawrence Rossiter 5 years ago
Despite what the name suggests, this is short and easy. The kids enjoyed, as did the dog.
Mary Lou 5 years ago
Great place for all ages. Love how well-maintaned the path was.