Embedded Files
Driving Directions
take I-270 to US 36
take US 36 until it turns into 28th st
turn left on Canyon (CO 119)
follow to Nederland
turn west onto CO 72 and continue for ~11.5 miles
turn left on county road 102 to the Brainard Lake Recreation Site
$9.00 fee at kiosk
park at the Mitchell Creek Trailhead parking area
note: the fee to enter the Brainard Lake Rec. Area may increase as many amenities are being upgraded as of 2011
Trail Reports
Hiking Directions
head northwest from the beaver creek trailhead
at ~0.4 miles, trail turns right up a steep switchback
at 1.3 miles, trail intersects with Beaver Creek Trail
continue straight
at 1.9 miles, trail opens to great views of Blue Lake
at 2.5 miles, steep switchbacks
at 3.5 miles, steep switchbacks to summit
stay on main trail marked by cairns
at 4.0 miles, summit Mount Audobon
Round trip: 8.0 miles
A wonderful day-hike with only one challenging portion found in the climb to the summit. In 2010, the American Recovery and Reinvestment Act provided funds to upgrade the Brainard Lake Recreation Area with better facilities and new roads. The rec. area offers a number of trailheads, fishing opportunities, and camping and is the most frequented site on the Boulder Ranger District.
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The first portion of the trail is below treeline with a smooth path lightly sprinkled with pine needles. Eventually the trail begins to gain elevation and yields some spectacular views of the surrounding country. The trail eventually becomes somewhat barren and windswept before becoming a carpet of tundra sustained by abundant snow-melt.
The summit is encased by a boulder field that conceals the trail most of the time. If possible, follow the cairns to the top, though this is somewhat challenging. The summit boasts views of Longs Peak to the North and impressive views of the Front Range.
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