Overnight - Long Lake
Brainard Lake Recreation Area Timed Tickets
This timed entry reservation is for those who have already purchased an Indian Peaks Wilderness Overnight Permit and does not replace a valid Wilderness permit. Reservations for designated overnight trailhead use go on sale at 8:00 am MT / 10:00 a.m. ET March 3rd for visitors with Indian Peaks Wilderness Overnight Permits. You must arrive on the entry date, at the entry time, and park in the designated overnight trailhead area as indicated on your reservation. One overnight timed ticket reservation per night is required for the vehicle and all occupants. Your reservation(s) must be displayed in your windshield for the duration of your stay. Please note: Upper trailhead parking areas (Long Lake, Mitchell Lake, Niwot) are not scheduled to open until July 1. Brainard Lake trailhead is scheduled to open mid-June. The lower Gateway Trailhead is accessible year-round (timed entry reservations not required).
Need to Know
- Reservation Duration
Reservation(s) purchased for the duration of the backpacking permit will be validated for the length of that permit upon presentation at the Welcome Station. The vehicle must arrive on the entry date, at the entry time, and be parked in the assigned lot in a parking space designated for overnight use. The reservation(s) must be displayed in the vehicle windshield.
- Print or Digital Copy of Reservation
Please have a printed copy of your reservation(s) available to be checked at the Welcome Station, or to be displayed in the windshield of your vehicle.
- Where to Purchase Reservation
Recreation.gov is the only valid source for obtaining a reservation for accessing Brainard Lake Recreation Area with a vehicle. Reservations are non-transferrable.
- Reservation Availability
Reservations are only available for visitors with a valid Indian Peaks Wilderness Overnight Permit, and must coincide with the dates shown on their permit.
