Ward Lake Recreation Area
Discover serene alpine lakes, stunning mountain vistas, and abundant wildlife in this picturesque Colorado recreation area.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Wildflowers and wildlife sightings
Ward Lake Recreation Area
Best Time
Wildflowers and wildlife sightings
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Discover serene alpine lakes, stunning mountain vistas, and abundant wildlife in this picturesque Colorado recreation area.
"The scenery is breathtaking, truly a gem in the Colorado Rockies!"
🚗 Book Your Entry Pass
Timed entry reservations are mandatory! Book on recreation.gov well in advance. :ticket:
🥾 Wear Sturdy Hiking Shoes
Trails can be rocky and uneven, especially to higher alpine lakes. Good footwear is a must! :athletic_shoe:
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
Ward Lake Loop
Ward Lake
An easy, well-maintained trail perfect for all fitness levels, offering beautiful lake views and birdwatching opportunities.
Mitchell Lake Trail
Mitchell Lake Trailhead
A moderate hike leading to stunning alpine lakes with breathtaking mountain backdrops. Wildflowers abound in summer.
+1
Lake Isabelle
Lake Isabelle Trailhead
An iconic alpine lake hike with scenery reminiscent of Switzerland, offering spectacular panoramic views.
+1
Blue Lake
Blue Lake Trailhead
A rewarding hike to a beautiful alpine lake, often featuring abundant wildlife sightings.
+1Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Reservations are Key
+1Weather Can Change Fast
+1Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
🚗 Book Your Entry Pass
Timed entry reservations are mandatory! Book on recreation.gov well in advance.
🥾 Wear Sturdy Hiking Shoes
Trails can be rocky and uneven, especially to higher alpine lakes. Good footwear is a must!
💧 Pack Plenty of Water
Stay hydrated on the trails, especially at higher altitudes. There are limited water sources.
🐻 Be Wildlife Aware
You might see moose or other animals. Keep a safe distance and never feed them.
Tips
from all over the internet
🚗 Book Your Entry Pass
Timed entry reservations are mandatory! Book on recreation.gov well in advance.
🥾 Wear Sturdy Hiking Shoes
Trails can be rocky and uneven, especially to higher alpine lakes. Good footwear is a must!
💧 Pack Plenty of Water
Stay hydrated on the trails, especially at higher altitudes. There are limited water sources.
🐻 Be Wildlife Aware
You might see moose or other animals. Keep a safe distance and never feed them.
📸 Capture the Views
Bring your camera! The scenery is stunning, from alpine lakes to mountain vistas.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors consistently praise the breathtaking natural beauty of Ward Lake and the surrounding Brainard Lake Recreation Area, highlighting the well-maintained trails and opportunities for wildlife viewing. While the reservation system can be a hurdle, most agree the stunning alpine scenery is well worth the planning. Some mention that certain trails can be crowded during peak times.
"My husband & I have walked the trails around Ward Lake for over 25 years.
We find them lovely no matter what the weather is doing.
No matter your fitness level, there is a trail for everyone."
Christine Fowler
"Beautiful trail, decent for kids and strollers."
Carlina Gilpin
"Very well maintained and east trail, package gravel and barely any elevation change. Beautiful scenery. I love it!"
Nixon Caparas
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
Ward Lake Recreation Area is part of the larger Brainard Lake Recreation Area, located near Ward, Colorado. From Denver, take US-36 W to CO-72 N, then follow signs for Ward. The drive is about 1 hour and 20 minutes.
Public transportation options are very limited. It's highly recommended to have your own vehicle. Parking reservations are required.
The road to Brainard Lake Recreation Area is paved but can be narrow and winding. It's generally well-maintained, but check local conditions, especially outside of summer.
Ward Lake is accessible via the main road within Brainard Lake Recreation Area. You'll need to secure a timed entry reservation for the recreation area itself.
During peak season, there might be limited shuttle services from nearby towns, but it's best to check the official Brainard Lake Recreation Area website for the most current information.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
Yes, a timed entry reservation is required for the Brainard Lake Recreation Area, which includes access to Ward Lake. Book these on recreation.gov.
There is an entrance fee per vehicle, in addition to the reservation fee. Check recreation.gov for current pricing.
The recreation area is typically open from late May/early June through mid-October, weather permitting. Specific hours for entry reservations apply.
It's highly unlikely to get same-day reservations, especially during peak season. Plan and book your reservation weeks or even months in advance.
You will not be able to enter the Brainard Lake Recreation Area without a valid timed entry reservation.
🎫 🏞️ Onsite Experience
The Ward Lake Loop is an easy, scenic walk. For more challenging hikes, consider Mitchell Lake, Blue Lake, or Lake Isabelle, which offer stunning alpine scenery.
The Ward Lake Loop is generally well-maintained and suitable for families and strollers, offering a gentle experience.
Visitors often report seeing moose, elk, marmots, and various bird species. Always maintain a safe distance and respect their habitat.
Yes, there are several picnic areas with shelters within the Brainard Lake Recreation Area, including near Ward Lake.
Cell service can be spotty to non-existent in many parts of the Brainard Lake Recreation Area, especially on trails. Download offline maps.
🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining
No, there are no food services or restaurants within the recreation area. You'll need to bring your own food and drinks for picnics.
The closest dining options are in the small town of Ward, or you can find more extensive choices in Nederland or Boulder, which are a longer drive away.
Pack easy-to-carry snacks, sandwiches, and plenty of water. Consider a cooler if you plan to picnic.
📸 📸 Photography
The shores of Ward Lake, the reflections in Lake Isabelle, the alpine vistas from the Mitchell Lake and Blue Lake trails, and the scenic pull-offs along the drive offer incredible photo opportunities.
Early morning and late afternoon offer the best light for landscape photography, with softer shadows and warmer tones. Sunrise and sunset can be spectacular.
Drone usage is generally restricted in National Forest areas and recreation areas to protect wildlife and visitor experience. Check current regulations.
A wide-angle lens is great for landscapes, while a telephoto lens can be useful for wildlife. A sturdy tripod is helpful for low-light conditions and capturing reflections.
Capturing the reflections of the surrounding peaks in the alpine lakes, the vibrant wildflowers in summer, or the golden aspens in fall are popular and rewarding photographic pursuits.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
+1Remember to pack plenty of snacks and water, as amenities are limited.
Keep an eye out for wildlife – spotting a moose or marmot can be a highlight for kids! Ensure everyone has appropriate footwear and dress in layers, as mountain weather can be unpredictable. Consider bringing a small backpack for kids to carry their own essentials, making them feel more involved in the adventure.🚶♀️ Hikers Seeking Alpine Lakes
+3 These hikes offer a more challenging but incredibly rewarding experience, showcasing the dramatic beauty of the Indian Peaks Wilderness. +1Be prepared for elevation gain and uneven terrain.
+1 Sturdy hiking boots are essential, and trekking poles can be beneficial. The reservations system for Brainard Lake Recreation Area is crucial; secure your timed entry well in advance to guarantee access to these popular trailheads. +1 Pack plenty of water and high-energy snacks, as these hikes can be demanding. 📸 Nature Photographers
+2 Capture the vibrant wildflowers in summer or the fiery autumn colors of the aspens. Don't forget your telephoto lens for potential wildlife shots, like moose or elk. +1Plan your visit around the golden hours for the best light.
A wide-angle lens is perfect for sweeping landscapes, and a tripod will help you achieve sharp, stunning images, particularly of reflections. Remember that cell service is limited, so download offline maps and be prepared to rely on your camera's GPS if needed. Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
Navigating the Trails
+2When planning your hike, consider the elevation gain and distance. Trails like Mitchell Lake and Blue Lake are around 5 miles roundtrip with moderate elevation changes, while Lake Isabelle offers a similar challenge.
Always check trail conditions before you go, as they can be affected by weather and snowmelt. Downloading offline maps is highly recommended, as cell service is unreliable. Remember to wear appropriate footwear, such as sturdy hiking boots, as the terrain can be rocky and uneven.
+1 Packing layers of clothing is crucial, as mountain weather can change rapidly. +1 Be prepared for sun, wind, and potential rain, even on a clear day. Wildlife Encounters
+1 Other common sightings include elk, marmots, pikas, and a diverse array of bird species. It's essential to remember that these are wild animals, and maintaining a safe distance is paramount for both your safety and their well-being. Never approach, feed, or attempt to pet wildlife.
Using binoculars or a telephoto lens on your camera is the best way to observe them without disturbance. Be aware of your surroundings, especially when hiking. Make noise as you walk to avoid surprising animals. If you encounter a moose, give it a wide berth and be aware of its behavior.
Respecting wildlife ensures that these animals continue to thrive in their environment and that visitors can enjoy safe and memorable encounters.Photography Opportunities
+5During the summer months, the meadows burst with vibrant wildflowers, adding splashes of color to the landscape.
In the fall, the aspens turn brilliant shades of gold, creating breathtaking scenes, especially along the scenic drive. Keep an eye out for wildlife; a moose or elk sighting can make for an unforgettable photograph. +1For the best photographic results, aim for the golden hours – shortly after sunrise and before sunset – when the light is soft and warm.
A wide-angle lens is ideal for capturing the expansive mountain vistas and lake scenes, while a telephoto lens can be useful for wildlife photography. Don't forget a sturdy tripod for sharper images in low light and for capturing those perfect reflections. 
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