Lake Isabelle from Long Lake Trailhead

The walk starts at the Long Lake Trailhead at the west end of the Brainard Lake Recreation Area, west of Ward. The Pawnee Pass Trail soon enters the Indian Peaks Wilderness and runs along the north shore of Long Lake, then climbs gently up the valley through subalpine forest to Lake Isabelle, which sits just below tree line beneath the Continental Divide. The route ends partway along the lake's north shore. Return the same way.

It is 4.8 miles (7.7 km) round trip with 400 feet (122 m) of climbing; allow about 2 hours. The grade is Easy: a gentle trail, though it is all above 10,500 feet.

The weather changes fast at this height: come ready for strong sun, cold, wind, hail and storms. Moose are often seen along the trail, and black bears and mountain lions live here too: keep your distance. Dogs must be on a leash. Lake Isabelle is an irrigation reservoir and is usually drawn down in late summer, so it is fullest in July.

In 2026, drivers needed a Recreation.gov timed-entry reservation from June 12 to October 1, and the Long Lake lot opened on July 1. From October 2 to 16, 2026, the road beyond the Gateway Trailhead is closed for construction work; walking in on the Waldrop or Little Raven trails adds 2 to 3 miles each way.

Route drawn by Global Adventurer along OpenStreetMap paths (© OpenStreetMap contributors, ODbL), with figures worked out from it. Check the forecast and the ground on the day: paths change.