Attractions and Places To See around Ward - Top 20

The area around Ward, Colorado, is rich in natural beauty. A prominent feature is Brainard Lake, an alpine lake set in a glacially carved valley, offering spectacular panoramic views of the lake, surrounding subalpine forest, and high peaks along the Continental Divide. You can also access the vast Indian Peaks Wilderness Area from here, known for its stunning views and tundra landscapes. Other natural spots include Duck Lake and Red Rock Lake, offering serene mountain views and opportunities for snowshoeing in winter.

Yes, Ward is a gateway to numerous hiking opportunities. The Brainard Lake Recreation Area provides access to extensive trail networks within the Roosevelt National Forest and the Indian Peaks Wilderness. For easy hikes, you can explore routes like Blue Lake via Mitchell Lake Trail or sections of the Switzerland Trail. More challenging options include the Mount Audubon and Paiute Peak Loop or the Brainard Lake Loop via South Saint Vrain Trail. You can find detailed guides for various hiking trails around Ward on komoot, including easy hikes and running trails.

The natural surroundings of Ward offer several family-friendly activities. Brainard Lake is considered family-friendly, offering beautiful scenery for gentle walks and picnicking. The historic town of Ward itself, with its preserved buildings, can be an interesting self-guided tour for families. Additionally, the nearby Brainard Lake Recreation Area is popular for camping and easy nature exploration.

Yes, Ward has a couple of charming spots to refuel. The Ward General Store is a local favorite, known for its unique atmosphere and often praised for its cinnamon rolls. Another option is the Gold Hill General Store, located in a tiny gold mining village nearby, which is a great stop for coffee and cake after exploring the gravel roads. It's always a good idea to check their opening times, especially during the off-season.

Ward is a popular destination for cyclists, particularly those who enjoy scenic climbs and gravel routes. The Lefthand Canyon (from Lee Hill Drive to Ward) offers a long, scenic climb with increasingly good views of the Indian Peaks, and is also a super fun downhill ride. Sunshine Canyon (Gravel Section) provides a well-graded, hard-packed gravel route from Boulder into the foothills, often completed by local cyclists on road bikes. Mountain biking enthusiasts can also find various trails, including the Sourdough and South Saint Vrain Loop or the Switzerland Trail and Gold Hill Loop, detailed in the MTB Trails around Ward guide.

Brainard Lake is a highly accessible alpine lake within the Brainard Lake Recreation Area. During the summer season, a reservation and fee are typically required for vehicle access, though cyclists often do not need to pay or reserve a time slot. The area offers spectacular panoramic views of the lake, surrounding subalpine forest, and the high peaks of the Continental Divide. It's a popular spot for hiking, camping, and snowshoeing, and moose are frequently seen grazing on lily pads in the lake.

The best time to visit Ward for outdoor activities largely depends on what you want to do. For hiking and cycling, late spring through early fall (roughly June to October) offers the most favorable conditions, though snow can remain at higher elevations like Brainard Lake until July. Fall brings stunning foliage. Winter (November to May) transforms the area into a snowy wonderland, ideal for snowshoeing and cross-country skiing, particularly around Red Rock Lake and Brainard Lake.

Ward, Colorado, is a historic silver mining town, and many of its original buildings still stand, offering a glimpse into its past. You can take a self-guided tour through the town to appreciate its unique character. The Ward General Store and Gold Hill General Store are also historic establishments that have maintained their charm over the years.

Ward is situated along Colorado's scenic Peak to Peak Byway, which is a popular route for scenic drives. This byway offers breathtaking views of the Continental Divide and provides access to various natural attractions. Driving through Lefthand Canyon or Sunshine Canyon also offers picturesque journeys through the foothills and canyons, with increasingly good views as you ascend.

Visitors particularly enjoy the stunning natural beauty and the sense of escape that Ward offers. The panoramic views from places like Brainard Lake and the challenging yet rewarding climbs through Lefthand Canyon are frequently praised. The historic charm of the town and its general stores, like the Ward General Store, also add to the unique experience, providing a perfect stop for cyclists and hikers.

Yes, there are several easy hiking trails around Ward that are suitable for beginners or those looking for a less strenuous outing. Options include sections of the Pawnee Pass Trail and the Mitchell Lake Trail, which offer beautiful scenery without significant elevation gain. The Easy hikes around Ward guide on komoot provides more details on these and other accessible routes.

For popular areas such as the Brainard Lake Recreation Area, it's important to be aware of parking and permit requirements. During the peak summer season, vehicle access often requires a reservation and a fee. However, if you are visiting by bike, you typically do not need to pay or reserve a time slot. It's always recommended to check the official U.S. Forest Service website for the most current information on permits, fees, and reservation systems before your visit.

Many trails and outdoor areas around Ward are dog-friendly, but it's crucial to check specific regulations for each location, especially within designated wilderness areas or recreation sites. Brainard Lake, for example, is generally dog-friendly, but dogs must be on a leash. Always practice Leave No Trace principles, including picking up after your pet, to ensure these beautiful areas remain enjoyable for everyone.