Niwot Mountain via Left Hand Reservoir Road Hike

If you are looking for a moderate hike in the Indian Peaks Wilderness, the Niwot Mountain via Left Hand Reservoir Road Hike is perfect. Whether you are hiking or snowshoeing, just make sure you have a rough idea of the trail’s layout, or a GPS, as the west side of the trail is poorly marked. As you ascend the ridge toward Niwot Mountain, the trail is exposed, layer up and expect some wind!

The Niwot Mountain via Left Hand Reservoir Road Hike begins from the Brainard Winter Parking Lot. From the parking lot, cross over the Brainard Lake Road and begin your hike along the Left Hand Reservoir Road. Continue along the road as it intersects with a creek before the junction. Here there are three paths. The trail can be completed in either direction, but we recommend going clockwise. Take the Niwot Mountain Trail, which is the path furthest to your left. Follow along this trail as you gain elevation and top the timberline. The terrain will be rockier as you hike the ridge and summit Niwot Mountain. From the top you will be rewarded with sights of Colorado’s snow dusted craggy peaks and alpine forests.

From the peak, head west down an unmarked path. This route will bring you down the mountain, through the lush forest, before delivering you to the shore of the Left Hand Reservoir. Follow the path as it follows the curves of the shore before guiding you back onto the Left Hand Reservoir Road. Continue along the road back to the carpark.