Ward, Colorado
Pawnee Pass Trail
Climb past Lake Isabelle to a 12,541-foot pass on the Continental Divide.
- Difficulty
- Hard
- Length
- 9.2 mi
- Elevation Gain
- 2,100 ft
- Duration
- 5–7
- Best Season
- Jul–Sep
- Permit
- Required
- Dogs
- Allowed
- Features
- Alpine pass, Lake Isabelle
About the trail
The Pawnee Pass Trail in the Indian Peaks Wilderness is the perfect introduction to Colorado high country. The trail passes Long Lake and Lake Isabelle before switching steeply up a headwall to Pawnee Pass on the Continental Divide. The pass overlooks Pawnee Lake and the Lake Granby drainage. Wildflowers peak in late July.
Trailhead map & directions
Trailhead: 40.0773, -105.5810Get directions →
Turn-by-turn route
- Reserve an Indian Peaks Wilderness permit if camping.
- Drive to the Long Lake Trailhead at Brainard Lake Recreation Area ($14 entrance fee).
- Hike the Long Lake Trail past Long Lake (1.2 miles).
- Continue to Lake Isabelle (2.5 miles).
- Climb the headwall switchbacks to Pawnee Pass (4.6 miles).
Parking
Long Lake Trailhead at Brainard Lake. Timed entry reservation required Jun–Sep.
Tips from the trail
- Acclimatize for 1–2 days at altitude before attempting.
- Start by 6 AM to be off the pass before afternoon storms.
- Mosquitoes are vicious in July — bring repellent.