Niwot Ridge Trail

The Niwot Ridge Trail is a perfectly relaxed half day hike in the Indian Peaks that passes along Long Lake and ridges Niwot Mountain. This trail is great for families or as a recovery hike after summiting a peak. This trail is well signposted but in the summer months brush overgrowth can make the trail hard to follow. Do your best to stay on the worn path and bring a GPS trail report if possible. Note that parking passes are required and can be purchased at the Brainard Lake Recreational Area Kiosk or online.

Begin your adventure at the Niwot Picnic area. From the picnic area, head west along the Niwot Cut Off Trail. This wooded path will guide you to an intersection. At this point, veer left on the Jean Lunning Trail. You will shortly arrive at another junction. Here, bear left on Niwot Ridge Trail. As you traverse this winding trail it will gain elevation as you ascend towards the ridge. Continue hiking the ridge as it ascends the timberline and becomes exposed. You will eventually come to another intersection at the top of the ridge. This is your turnaround point.

If you are feeling adventurous, turn left and head southeast along the trail to summit Niwot Mountain. If you’ve had enough and you’re tired out, turn around. To get back to the parking lot simply retrace your steps along the trail.