Blue Lake via Mitchell Lake Trail

The trail starts at the Mitchell Lake Trailhead within the Brainard Lake Recreation Area. During peak season (typically July to mid-October), you will need a timed entry reservation and a fee to access the recreation area. The road to the trailhead is closed from mid-October to mid-June, requiring hikers to add several extra miles by parking outside the gate.

Yes, during the peak season (generally July to mid-October), access to the Brainard Lake Recreation Area, where this trail is located, requires a timed entry reservation and an entrance fee. It's advisable to check the official recreation area website for the most current requirements.

Yes, dogs are generally allowed on the trail. However, they must be kept on a leash at all times to protect wildlife and ensure a pleasant experience for all hikers. Always pack out any waste.

The best time to hike to Blue Lake is typically from July to mid-October. July and early August are ideal for seeing abundant wildflowers. During this period, the trail is usually free of snow, and the weather is generally favorable. Hiking outside this window, especially from mid-October to mid-June, means the road to the trailhead is closed, adding significant distance to your hike.

The overall hike to Blue Lake is considered moderate. The first mile to Mitchell Lake is relatively easy. The section from Mitchell Lake to Blue Lake is steeper and rockier, with about 600 feet of elevation gain over 1.5 miles. Expect rougher terrain and potentially muddy patches, especially earlier in the season.

The trail offers varied scenery. It begins by winding through shaded forested areas, then opens up to willowy meadows, numerous ponds, and flowing creeks. As you ascend, the path becomes rockier, and sections above the treeline can be exposed. You'll enjoy stunning views of the Indian Peaks Wilderness, Mount Toll, and Pawnee Peak, with vibrant wildflowers in summer.

Key points of interest include the serene Mitchell Lake, reached about a mile in, and the strikingly vibrant Blue Lake, nestled at the base of Mount Toll. The trail also offers panoramic views of the Indian Peaks Wilderness and opportunities to spot wildlife.

The trail is known for its wildlife. Moose sightings are a notable highlight, often spotted in clearings and near ponds, particularly during dawn and dusk. You may also encounter various bird species and other small mammals native to the alpine environment.

The round trip hike to Blue Lake is approximately 6 miles (about 9.6 km) with around 900 feet (274 m) of total elevation gain. Most hikers can complete this in 3-4 hours, depending on pace and time spent enjoying the scenery.

The Blue Lake via Mitchell Lake Trail is primarily an out-and-back route. You will return along the same path you took to reach Blue Lake.

The hike to Mitchell Lake is an easy 1-mile trek. Continuing to Blue Lake adds a moderate, steeper 1.5 miles with significant elevation gain. For a much more challenging adventure, extending to Little Blue Lake involves largely off-trail scrambling over boulders and rugged terrain, adding about 0.75 miles and substantial elevation gain, making it a difficult and strenuous undertaking with no set path.