Hiking Adventure to Lake Isabelle in Colorado

Explore the majestic Rocky Mountains on a scenic hike to Lake Isabelle, where stunning landscapes and wildlife encounters await.

Last updated: Apr 2024
  • Free (parking and reservation fees apply)

Description

Explore the majestic Rocky Mountains on a scenic hike to Lake Isabelle, where stunning landscapes and wildlife encounters await. Embark on a journey to Lake Isabelle, nestled in the picturesque Rocky Mountains less than an hour from Boulder, Colorado. This hike offers a unique opportunity to explore high elevation, subalpine lakes not commonly accessible in many states. Starting from the Brainard Lake Recreation Area, prepare for a slightly extended trek due to the popularity of the Long Lake Trailhead. The path begins in the cool, lush environment of the Indian Peaks Wilderness, where you might learn about the thriving moose population before trekking along the South St. Vrain Creek for breathtaking views. The hike continues alongside Long Lake, filled with the promise of brook trout beneath its serene surface, leading up to the vibrant alpine meadows sprinkled with wildflowers. As you gain elevation, the landscape opens up to reveal Lake Isabelle, beautifully framed by the towering peaks of the Front Range. Though fishing enthusiasts may try their luck, the true reward lies in the panoramic views and the peaceful ambiance of this high-altitude lake.

Perfect for

For solo
For two
For groups
Outdoorsy

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Itinerary

  1. Arrive at Brainard Lake Recreation Area; start at the Brainard Lake Trailhead.
  2. Hike towards Long Lake, passing information boards about the moose population.
  3. Continue along South St. Vrain Creek, enjoying the views.
  4. Follow the trail around Long Lake, observing the wildlife and flora.
  5. Ascend towards Lake Isabelle, taking in the alpine meadows.
  6. Arrive at Lake Isabelle, explore, fish, or simply enjoy the scenery.
  7. Return via the same route, keeping an eye out for moose and other wildlife.

Location

Brainard Lake Recreation Area, CO

Show directions

Packing List

  • Comfortable hiking shoes
  • Water bottle
  • Sunscreen
  • Camera
  • Fishing gear (optional)
  • Rain gear (weather can change quickly)

 5  ● Google reviews

  • Tho Truong

    2 months ago

    Gorgeous hike for all of the reasons already mentioned. Wanted to write a review to give the awesome person who found my phone a shout out. Leaving it with the thoughtful signage was brilliant!
  • Dan Wellington

    2 months ago

    Hiked the Lake Isabelle Trail from the Brainard Lake lot this morning. Easily one of the prettiest hikes in Colorado and so many moose.
  • ERIN LEIGH

    a year ago

    Favorite hike of my hiking adventure. Was $18.00 for reservation. Got the earliest reservation time and trail was not busy. Was busy on my way out. Glacier area was snow covered and I lost the trail. Solo hiking so went As far as I could safely. No one else going to glacier part that early til I was walking out. Obsessed with the views and the trails! Made moose and marmot friends. Hike early as storms were rolling in around 11. Hiked from Brainard lake to Niwot trail to Pawnee pass to glacier and took Jean lenning trail back to niwot trail and stayed on path right next to lake to go back to parking lot.
  • Clement Chan

    a year ago

    This is a 11.6 miles out and back hike from the Brainard Lake Parking or 9.6 miles if you are lucking enough to score a parking spot at the Long Lake Trailhead. The trail crosses the creek that flows into Isabelle Lake and the trail at that point can be confusing so pay attention to the cairn. I think the best time in the summer to hike Isabelle Glacier is July as snow is plentiful. The last time I made this hike was in early October and a large part of the glacier has melted.
  • MarichkaOst

    3 years ago

    This is a difficult hike, but absolutely worth it. I was hiking during the weekend on the mid of September and the begging of the trail was a little crowded , but to mention booking a reservation for a morning was a quest. Lake Isabelle was stunning with a wonderful water color, once you get to the South Saint Brain Creek the color of it makes you forget everything. Part of the hike from the creek is probably the most difficult, because most part of the elevation falls onto that part of the trail. It was a bit sad to see what’s left of the glacier, but I hope for a lot of snow this and following winters

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