Brainard Lake Recreation Area: Niwot Ridge Trail, Indian Peaks Wilderness Area, Colorado
Brainard Lake Recreation Area: Niwot Ridge Trail
Indian Peaks Wilderness Area
The Niwot Ridge Trail climbs 1,800’ from the Long Lake Trailhead to a narrow, divisive ridgeline separating the South St Vrain Creek and North Boulder Creek drainages. The latter valley is part of the Boulder Watershed, a string of six glacier-fed alpine lakes providing the balance of Boulder County’s water supply. Closed to the public, the Niwot Ridge Trail offers a rare glimpse down this hidden valley. The trail itself passes through the 1200 hectare Niwot Ridge Biosphere Reserve, established in 1979 for the study of alpine tundra. Visitors will enjoy moderate grades, good trail conditions and arguably some of the best views of the Indian Peaks Wilderness Area.
| Related Trails: | Niwot Ridge |
Niwot Ridge provides stunning panoramic views of the Indian Peaks Wilderness
Looking down into the Green Lakes Watershed Basin
High above treeline, unabated views of the Indian Peaks mountain range
Well camouflaged ptarmigan on the Niwot Ridge Trail
Niwot Ridge - a narrow, knife like formation dividing two massive valleys
Alpine tundra surrounds the Niwot Ridge area providing ample room to explore
Isabelle Glacier, visible from the Niwot Ridge Trail
Mt. Audubon, one of multiple peaks featured on the trail
A chain of lakes descending into the Boulder watershed
Endless alpine tundra spreads wide across the Niwot Ridge Trail
Niwot Ridge narrows into a series of peaks
Ptarmagin will molt into an all-white coat during the winter to remain camouflaged in snow
Follow ProTrails®