Mitchell Lake Trail
The wooded Mitchell Lake Trail enters the Indian Peaks Wilderness near the bridge across Mitchell Creek. It continues on a good trail for a half mile to Mitchell Lake and crosses a bridge over the inlet. Another 1.5 miles of trail climbs a bit more steeply, then follows the creek in an open valley to Blue Lake. This lake lies at tree line below Mount Toll, a cone-shaped pinnacle on the Continental Divide. When under snow cover, it is very easy to lose the trail close attention is necessary.
Specific Trail Information
Trail Number
Trail Type
General Information
Elevation: 10,500 feet at the Mitchell Lake Trailhead
View a trail map here.
This trail lies within the Four Lakes Backcountry Zone of the Indian Peaks Wilderness Area:
- Camping is prohibited in the Four Lakes Backcountry Zone from May 1 through Nov 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 November 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.
Stock (horses, llamas etc.) are prohibited.
Getting There
Trailhead/Starting Points
Mitchell Creek Trailhead
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 Mitchell Creek Trailhead.
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.