Pawnee Pass (#907)
The first quarter mile of the Pawnee Pass Trail to Long Lake is a very heavily used trail. The trail enters the Indian Peaks Wilderness shortly after leaving the trailhead and continues along Long Lake as a wide and fairly flat trail. West of Long Lake, Jean Luning Trail intersects on the left, looping back toward the trailhead. The Pawnee Pass Trail continues up the valley at a gentle grade through wooded terrain. It makes a short climb to Lake Isabelle, which sits just below tree line. The Pawnee Pass Trail turns right (north) and climbs on a graded switchback trail. The trail first crosses a couple creeks and circles under a ridge above Lake Isabelle. It gains a wide bench above tree line by a series of short switchbacks. Another steep switchback pitch often holds snow late into the summer and leads to the top of Pawnee Pass (elevation 12,541'). The Cascade Creek Trail continues west from Pawnee Pass.
General Information
View a trail map here.
Camping is prohibited in the Four Lakes Backcountry Zone from May 1 through November 30.
Organized groups are required to have a permit for both camping and day-hiking year round.
Camping is prohibited on this trail from May 1 through Nov 30.
Motorized equipment and mechanized transportation are prohibited.
Pets must be on a hand-held leash at all times.
Campfires are prohibited year round.
Campsites must be at least 100 feet away from water and trail.
Group size is limited to 12.
Packstock (horses, llamas etc.) are prohibited.
Brainard Lake Recreation Area fees apply.
Dogs must be on a hand-held leash.
Getting There
Elevation
12,541 feet at Pawnee Pass
Directions
From Colorado Highway 72 at Ward, turn west onto the Brainard Lake Road. Travel 2.5 miles to the entrance portal, and continue another three miles to Long Lake Trailhead.
Facility and Amenity Information
Restrooms
Restrooms are not available at this site.
Horse/Pack Animal Information
Horse/Pack animals are not allowed at this site.
