Trail Description

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Lake Isabelle sits just below treeline in an idyllic alpine setting framed by the imposing summits of Navajo (13,409'), Apache (13,441'), and Shoshoni (12,967') peaks. Visible two miles up-valley is Isabelle Glacier, the origin of South Saint Vrain Creek and Lake Isabelle's main benefactor. Stunning scenery, brilliant wildflowers, animated streams and good fishing highlight this short and family-friendly day hike.

From the Long Lake Trailhead, a well-groomed path loosely follows the north shore of Long Lake beneath stately spruce to the first of two connections with the Jean Lunning Trail (.2 miles : 10,524'). The trail undulates mildly to the second Jean Lunning Trail connection (1.2 miles : 10,674’), continuing with similar facility through a break in the forest with revealing views of the dramatic upper-valley ahead (1.6 miles : 10,716’). It soon re-enters the timber and begins a more deliberate climb (1.85 miles) in a progressively thinning forest to Lake Isabelle’s lively outlet area (2.05 miles : 10,908’).

The stream-crossed, flower-lined trail crests a small ridge and drops gently to Lake Isabelle and Pawnee Pass Trail junction (2.1 miles : 10,892'). The lake vicinity is simply gorgeous, and worth exploring in full. The main trail continues on Isabelle’s north shore toward Isabelle Glacier with easy access to innumerable outcrops, viewpoints, and fishing locales. An unmaintained social path circles east and south across its outlet, where you’re likely find a bit more privacy and room to explore.

For an aerial view and alternative perspective, consider taking a few steps up the Pawnee Pass Trail, which splits off from and climbs quickly above the northeast edge of Lake Isabelle. Those with extra time may consider returning via the Jean Lunning Trail - a diverting loop around Long Lake known for its abundant wildflowers, accessible shorelines and excellent fishing. Doing so adds only nominal elevation gain and .4 miles to the roundtrip distance.

GPS Coordinates - DATUM WGS84

• N40 04.674 W105 35.077 - Long Lake Trailhead

• N40 04.550 W105 35.220 - .2 miles : Jean Lunning Trail junction #1

• N40 04.223 W105 36.083 - 1.2 miles : Jean Lunning Trail junction #2

• N40 04.167 W105 36.716 - 1.85 miles : Begin moderate switchbacks

• N40 04.225 W105 36.875 - 2.1 miles : Lake Isabelle and Pawnee Pass Trail junction

Worth Noting

• Lake Isabelle is one of four lakes in the Indian Peaks' 4 Lake Travel Zone (the others are Long Lake, Mitchell Lake and Blue Lake). Given their heavy day-use, no summer camping is permitted in these lake vicinities.



• Isabelle Lake and Isabelle Glacier were named by Fred Fair, a Boulder City engineer who discovered the glacier in the early 1900s. He named both after his wife. When he died in 1935, his ashes were scattered over Isabelle and Fair glaciers.



• This is a heavily used trail and parking is limited. Get an early start to avoid crowds and secure parking.



• Fishing regulations are specific and change seasonally. Call ahead for current restrictions.

Camping and Backpacking Information

• Permits are required for all overnight campers June 1 - September 15.



• Permits are required year-round for day and overnight use by large groups (8+) or organizational groups such as scouts, churches, schools and hiking clubs.



• Group size is limited to 12 people or people and packstock combined.



• Campfires are prohibited east side of the Continental Divide, as well as Caribou Lake, Columbine Lake, Gourd Lake, Crater Lake and in the Cascade Creek drainage above Cascade Falls.



• Pets must be on a handheld leash at all times.



• Camping is permitted only at designated campsites in the Diamond, Jasper, Crater and Caribou Lakes Backcountry Zones.



• Camping is prohibited in the Four Lakes Backcountry Zone (Mitchell, Blue, Long, Isabelle) May 1 - Nov 30.



• Camping is prohibited within 100’ of lakes, streams and trails.



• Packstock are prohibited in the Four Lakes Backcountry Zone, in the Cascade Backcountry Zone above Cascade Falls and on the Diamond Lake Trail #975.

Rules and Regulations

• There is a $9 fee to enter the Brainard Lake Recreation Area. Use the self-service pay station if no attendant is on duty. Fees, Parking, Pet, Camping and Trespassing regulations are strictly enforced.



• Dogs must be leashed at all times on trails within the Brainard Lake Recreation Area.

Directions to Trailhead

The Long Lake Trailhead is located within the Brainard Lake Recreation Area off of CO 72 (12 miles north of Nederland, just north of the town of Ward).

From Highway 72, turn west on Brainard Lake Road. In 2.6 miles you'll reach a pay station. Use the self-service pay station if no attendant is on duty. Continue another 3.2 miles on the paved road to the Long Lake Trailhead. This road may be closed at the halfway point from late October through late June or early July (depending on snow).

Long Lake can also be reached via the Niwot Cutoff Trail from the Niwot Cutoff Trailhead near the Niwot Mountain Picnic Area on the west end of Brainard Lake.

Contact Information

Boulder Ranger District
2140 Yarmouth Avenue
Boulder, CO 80301
303.541.2500