Brainard Lake Loop Via South St. vrain Trail (Winter)
ABSTRACT
Embark on a stunning winter snowshoeing journey with our comprehensive guide to the Brainard Lake Loop via South St. Vrain Trail. Discover the essentials of this moderately challenging trail, including tips on equipment, terrain details, and what to expect during your snowy trek through Colorado's breathtaking landscapes in late April. Perfect for enthusiasts seeking a blend of beauty and physical challenge.
Keywords
Brainard Lake snowshoeing
South St. Vrain Trail winter hike
Colorado winter hikes
Snowshoe trails Colorado
Winter hiking Brainard Lake
Moderate snowshoe trails
Winter hiking gear
Snowy path hiking
High altitude hikes Colorado
Snowshoeing guide Colorado
Brainard Lake is about 75 minutes from my personal training studio in Denver.
Colorado Hikes: Brainard Lake Loop Via South St. vrain Trail (Winter)
Time of Year: End of April.
Weather: 28 degrees and partly sunny.
Cover: 80% tree canopy with several exposed sections.
Time: 9:43 am - 2:11 pm.
Distance: 7.71 miles total.
Cost: No reservations are needed, but the service road gate is closed until the snow melts. Add an extra 2-2.5 miles to Brainard Lake.
Bathroom at Trailhead: Yes.
Difficulty: Moderate level 3 for altitude (10400 feet), elevation gain (853 feet), and length (7.71 miles). Not technical but tough with snowshoes.
Route: Brainard Lake Recreation Area lower lot to Brainard Lake Road to Mitchell Lake Road to Mitchell Lake Trailhead Connector Trail to Brainard Lake Road to CMC Brainard Snowshoe Trail To Brainard Lake Cutoff Trail to Waldrop Trail to South St. Vrain Trail to Sourdough Trail to Waldrop Trail to Brainard Lake Recreation Area lower lot. The route is actually easier to follow with AllTrails than my route description reflects.
Traffic: Light.
Parking: 70% full by 9:45 am.
Equipment: Hiking boots, hiking poles, snowshoes (a must).
Terrain: A snowy path (wet snow).
Experience: This was my first “real” attempt at snowshoeing. I wanted to set my baseline on a trail with minimal elevation gain. Undoubtedly, this is a popular snowshoeing and cross-country skiing area with no surprise. With a recent dump of snow, most of the trails were 2-5 feet deep. Since the service road to the lake was closed, I trekked an extra 2.5 miles to Brainard Lake. The snow-capped trees and glimmer of the sun offered a scenic winter walk up and around the lake until I reached the less-visited South St. Vrain Trail on my way back. I intended to go to Lake Isabelle, but the lack of tracks steered me towards busier paths. The wet snow created more work than expected and was well worth it!
Personal Trainer Notes: I know that most of my personal training clients wouldn’t be interested in the slug of snowshoeing in wet snow, but it’s worth the workout. Most certainly a different challenge from the typical walk in the woods and an opportunity to explore winter trails without post-holing.
The Brainard Lake Loop is approachable for personal training clients of any endurance level. Snowshoeing adds another level of difficulty, though!
A little snow-pack for a beautiful snowshoe adventure around Brainard Lake in Colorado.
Brainard Lake Loop Via South St. Vrain Trail
Brainard Lake
Best Nederland Hikes
List of Hiking Trails in Colorado
To check out more hiking reviews with pictures, visit “List of Colorado Hikes.” You’ll find options across a spectrum of difficulty, including many trails in the foothills and front range.
My final climb of the Decalibron was Mount Democrat, a Colorado 14er.
ABOUT THE AUTHOR: MICHAEL MOODY, PERSONAL TRAINER
As an author, a personal trainer in Denver, and podcast host, Michael Moody has helped personal training clients achieve new fitness heights and incredible weight loss transformations since 2005. He also produces the wellness podcast "The Elements of Being" and has been featured on NBC, WGN Radio, and PBS.
Michael offers personal training to Denver residents who want to meet at the 2460 W 26th Ave studio….or in their homes throughout LoHi (80206), LoDo (80202), RiNo (80216), Washington Park (80209), Cherry Creek (80206, 80209, 80243, 80246, 80231), and Highlands (80202, 80211, 80212). Michael also offers experiences with a personal trainer in Jefferson Park (80211) and Sloan's Lake (80204, 80212).
If you’re looking for a personal trainer who can curate a sustainable (and adaptable) routine based on your needs and wants, Michael is the experienced practitioner you’ve been looking for. Try personal training for a month…your body will thank you!
