Brainard Lake Recreation Area
Over the last 2 weeks I was fortunate enough to take two trips up to the Brainard Lake Recreation Area. This exquisite area sits within the Indian Peaks Wilderness, which is at a starting elevation of 10,000 ft. Although this area is heavily used, the reservation system has helped cut down on how busy it feels once you get parked and start hiking. The trails and views really can’t be beat! I also got a chance to see the RARE White-Winged Crossbills that have been hanging out in the area along Left-Hand Reservoir Road - a very special experience to see and hear them!
See the e-Bird checklists for each visit and photos below!
(click on the photos to get a bigger view)
July 25, Left-Hand Reservoir Road
July 25, Brainard Lake hike
August 2, Brainard Lake hike
White-winged crossbill
White-winged crossbill
White-winged crossbill, male & female, and Pine Siskin
Pine Grosbeak
Swallowtail butterfly
White-crowned sparrow
Canada Jay & Ruby-crowned Kinglet
Mountain Chickadee fledgling
Dark-eyed Junco
Yellow-rumped Warbler
Yellow-rumped Warbler fledgling
Cow moose along the trail
A beautiful pinecone!
Canada Jay
Dark-eyed Junco adult and fledgling
Dark-eyed Junco fledgling
Long Lake view
