Browns Lake

The hike begins from a well-developed trailhead with a pit toilet and a respectably large parking area. Even so, on the weekends--especially during the spring, when water flows are high--the parking lot can fill up. Plan accordingly.The hike begins by following the Browns Creek Trail, which begins directly to the right of the pit toilet. Note that the trail names for Browns Creek Trail #1429 and Wagon Loop Trail #1427 were switched several years ago to reduce confusion. However, that means that older maps and some online resources don't align with the trail signs. If in doubt, refer to the route shown here, and follow the visibly well-trafficked route.The initial climb on the Browns Creek Trail is steep and rocky, quickly gaining elevation while providing picturesque views over the Arkansas Valley below. This trail is heavily used by equestrians and is also open to mountain bikers, so be sure to remain alert for other trail users.At the junction with the Colorado Trail, continue up and to the left for a short distance before turning right on the signed Browns Creek Trail to continue heading uphill.After hiking through an open meadow with spectacular views of Mount White (left) and Mount Antero (right) above you, the trail snakes through the trees and over a couple of bridges. Keep an eye peeled for the sign pointing left toward Browns Creek Falls via a short spur trail. After enjoying your time at the thundering waterfall, return to the main trail and take a left to continue up to Browns Lake.From here, the hiking gets substantially more difficult as the trail grows steeper, narrower, and rougher. The trail tread consists primarily of big boulders with loose, rolling rocks in between them. A few sections of trail provide relief from the rocks, but make no mistake: this is a tough climb.Your ultimate reward is reaching beautiful Browns Lake, which is nestled right at treeline below Mount White and Tabeguache Peak. Be sure to savor the spectacular views from this secluded alpine lake.If you're completing this as a day hike, the lake is your turnaround point. If you're camping overnight, be sure to camp well away from the water's edge and observe all LNT practices.

According to a report on Hiking Project, "In 2019, a microburst flooded the valley, and the beaver dam burst. Brown's Lake is now just Brown's Creek. What had been a shallow but beautiful lake is gone. We will see if the beavers choose to rebuild." However, recent reports indicate that the beavers have rebuilt the dam and that the lake is full.