CMC Trail
Red Rock Trailhead to Brainard Lake is 2.4 miles one-way. The CMC Trail is within the Brainard Lake Recreation Area. It heads west from Red Rock Trailhead, running parallel to the south side of Brainard Lake Road. This winter-use trail is designated for skiing only. It is not recommended for summer uses.
Specific Trail Information
Trail Number
Trail Type
General Information
Elevation: 10,109 feet at Red Rock Trailhead; 10,396 feet at Brainard Lake
Brainard Lake Recreation Area has a fee. CASH OR CHECK ONLY. Fees apply during the summer operating season (typically late June through mid-October).
Pack animals (horses/llamas) and recreational shooting (except for legal hunting) are prohibited. Hunting and fishing is permitted in accordance with regulations established by Colorado Parks & Wildlife.
- Brainard Lake Recreation Area Summer Season (May 1 - Nov 14): Dogs must be on a hand-held leash at all times; when open, developed camping is only allowed at Pawnee Campground (no camping in closed campgrounds); dispersed camping is only allowed north of the South St Vrain Creek.
- Brainard Lake Recreation Area Winter Season (Nov 15 - Apr 30): Motorized vehicles are prohibited; dogs allowed only on the Brainard Lake and Lefthand Park Reservoir Roads; camping is prohibited within 1/4 mile of developed recreation sites except Red Rock Lake; skis only on Little Raven and CMC Ski Trail.
May 1 - Nov 14 dogs must be on a hand-held leash at all times. Nov 15 - Apr 30 dogs are allowed only on the Brainard Lake and Lefthand Park Reservoir Roads.
Getting There
Trailhead/Starting Points
Red Rock Trailhead
Directions
From Colorado Highway 72 at Ward, turn west onto the Brainard Lake Road. Travel 2.5 miles to the entrance portal.
Nearby Recreation Sites
Recreation Groups
The Brainard Lake Recreation Area is full of recreational activities. A timed-entry reservation is required to park inside Brainard Lake Recreation Area.