Brainard Lake

Memorial Day is coming up and most winter road closures are being cleared and are expected to be open by the US holiday.  Brainard Lake is no exception.  Having spent countless time at the park over the years, I have seen the park open earlier due to lack of accumulated snowfall.  However, this year, we have seen a late surge in spring snow storms with significant snow accumulations.  On Thursday, May 16, 2013, I decided to head up to Brainard Lake with my mountain bike and loaded with camera gear.  As expected, the park gates were closed, but a crew with a tractor & large front blade showed up with Boulder County personnel and began working on clearing the roads.  There has been significant snow melt the past week or two, but drifts as high as 6 feet still covered the roadway in spots.

Getting to Brainard lake, perse, was fairly accessible by bike provided you has wide tires and can tolerate soaked cycling or running shoes from the hiking / porting.  There were no moose or mountain lion sightings, which are common place, but the wind was present.  The temps were a comfortable 50-55 degrees F, but one needs to be wary of afternoon storms.  

If you want to do some hiking, bring your snowshoes and a change of dry shoes & socks.