Overview
Brainard Lake is my favorite easily accessible alpine lake with mountain views near Boulder. With just a short walk from the parking lot, you'll get to this stunning lake with mountains in the background and a meadow in front. It's a great spot for engagement photos or elopements!
Location
Brainard Lake is located within Brainard Lake Recreation area about 45 minutes west of Boulder. Here is a Google map pin to the exact summer parking area.
Permit Requirements
No permits are required to have a ceremony or take photos at the lake. However, a timed daily entry ticket is required. See this page for more info on Brainard Lake permits.
Pets
Pets are permitted at Brainard Lake but you must bring a leash.
Weather and Seasons
The road to Brainard Lake is only open from mid-June through mid-October every year. The rest of the year, the road is closed due to snow and while you can still access the lake, you'll have to walk, ski, or snowshoe a few miles from the winter parking lot.
Accessibility
Brainard Lake only requires a short 5-10 flat walk from the parking lot to the lake.
Parking
There is a large parking area that is located about a 5-10 minute walk from the lake.
Other Notes
- It is almost always cooler at Brainard Lake than in Boulder due to the altitude. Bring layers and check the weather for Ward, CO which is the nearest town. Especially in the fall months, it can be pretty cold!
- Weather is very unpredictable due to the altitude.
- The water is cold, but you can go for a dip or swim if you want!
- There is absolutely no cell service at Brainard Lake or anywhere nearby!
- There are restrooms at the parking lot
Reasons to love this location
- One of the best mountain lakes near Boulder
- Only requires a short walk from the parking
- Great spot for sunset
- It has a variety of landscapes within a small area (lake, forest, meadow)
- It has space on the shore if you want to have an elopement and invite guests
- It's very accessible and requires just a short walk
