It had been four years since I'd been to Brainard Lake Recreation Area to take pictures of moose and hike to Lake Isabelle. That was quite long enough in my opinion, so I talked a fellow photographer in the neighborhood into joining me for a trip up there this past Wednesay.
Setting the alarm for 3 a.m. turned out to be be the right call, because we got there just in time to catch this predawn color in the clouds.
Brainard Lake was noticeably lower than in the past, but no less beautiful during golden hour.
We scoured the willows on Brainard Lake's southern shore, but moose were nowhere to be seen. So we were left with shooting reflections in the still waters at the lake's western edge.
Some driftwood in the water did its best to make up for the absence of moose, with compelling textures.
After giving up on the moose it was time for my favorite hike in Colorado. My sixth time on this trail, and it never disappoints. The wildflowers and cascades were as striking as ever.
The final cascade before reaching the lake was absolutely bursting with bluebells.
I have never not taken a picture at this spot in all my visits. Why wouldn't I?
Like Brainard, Lake Isabelle was also lower than I've seen it in past years. There was less snow on the surrounding peaks, too.
The outflow was likewise modest.
As we headed back, my buddy hiked a bit farther down along the cascade you walk across right before reaching the lake. Not surprisingly, it's just as lush and picturesque wherever you look.
Even without moose, the hike was as enjoyable as ever. We covered 5.89 miles and 627 feet of elevation gain in a little more than 2 1/2 hours, not counting the roughly 45 minutes we spent taking photos. A truly terrific morning!
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