The area around Brainard Lake, portal for the Indian Peaks Wilderness, is one of the more popular winter recreation spots for Front Range cross country skiers and snowshoers. The well-laid-out trail system offers all levels of difficulty. Choose between relaxing easy trails to strenuous backcountry trails in a remote environment.
We recently spent a day in this area, introducing friends to some of the skiing trails. It had been several years since we skied here, and I had forgotten just how enjoyable a day spent here can be. Especially welcome on a cold, windy day is a stop at the Colorado Mountain Club cabin, owned and operated by the Boulder Group. For a suggested donation of $1, you can warm up in front of the wood-burning stove and enjoy a cup of hot chocolate. This cabin has provided a comfortable rest stop for winter travelers since it was built in 1928. You’ll find it hosted by members of the Boulder Group of the CMC most weekends in the winter months (the cabin is open to travelers only when a host is there). The cabin is also available for overnight stays (visit for more information). We have spent many enjoyable evenings there.
The trip all the way to Blue Lake is a long day and is recommended only on those days with good weather and for those with good endurance and skills.
Because of the popularity of the area, many of the trails are reserved exclusively for either ski or snowshoe use. Please respect these designations. Also, be aware that on weekends the trailhead is extremely popular. It is advisable to arrive early to secure a good parking spot.
Trail description
The CMC South ski trail (No. 814.2) is one of several trails that begin on the south side of the road just before the winter gate closure, all well signed. The trail, which is quite gentle with a few ups and downs, follows the blue diamonds and trail signs for 2.5 miles, where the trail joins the Little Raven Trail immediately before emerging from the trees onto the road. Some old brick chimneys just before this junction help locate this point.
Drop down onto the road (often a windy spot) and continue northwest on the roadbed, following signs for Mitchell Lake. Take the left fork at the road junction at mile 2.9, then continue to follow signs to Mitchell Lake. Just before the road crosses another open area a sign on the right directs you to the CMC cabin, located about 50 yards off the road.
To continue on to Mitchell and Blue Lakes stay on the road, reaching the Mitchell Lake Trailhead at mile 3.5. The intermediate-level trail winds its way through open trees to Mitchell Lake at mile 4.3. On a windy day this is a good turnaround point. Glades at the west end of Mitchell Lake usually provide good snow for a few telemark turns.
The trail, now exposed to the wind and sometimes difficult to follow, continues along the south side of Mitchell Lake before heading generally west to reach Blue Lake at mile 5.7. If there isn’t an obvious track to follow, good route-finding skills may be needed to find the best route to the lake.
The return trip down the trail can be a thrilling run. Alternatively, advanced skiers may want to ski the hills above Mitchell Lake before rejoining the trail. Just make sure you avoid the avalanche- prone slopes of Mount Audubon.
Dave Cooper is the author of “Colorado Snow Climbs: A Guide for All Seasons.”
The details
Getting to the trailhead: Drive on Colorado 72 (Peak to Peak Highway) to the turnoff to Brainard Lake, 0.3 miles north of the town of Ward. Drive west on the winding Brainard Lake Road (often icy) for 2.5 miles to winter closure.
Hike statistics: The CMC South ski trail to the CMC cabin gains 315 feet in 3.2 miles one way. To reach Mitchell Lake the trail gains a total of 640 feet in 4.3 miles. To reach Blue Lake you will gain 1,240 feet in 5.7 miles one way.
Difficulty: Easy skiing to the Mitchell Lake trailhead, intermediate skiing to Mitchell Lake and advanced skiing with good route-finding skills to reach Blue Lake. Expect cold and windy conditions, especially above Mitchell Lake.
USGS Quads: Ward, CO.
