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! 

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. 

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 are permitted at Brainard Lake but you must bring a leash. 

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. 

Brainard Lake only requires a short 5-10 flat walk from the parking lot to the lake. 

There is a large parking area that is located about a 5-10 minute walk from the lake.