Brainard Lake Engagement Photos: Sunset Session in the Indian Peaks
Brainard Lake engagement photos are proof that you don’t need to hike for miles to get jaw-dropping mountain views. This summertime session with Andrew and Gabby took place just steps from the car, in the heart of the Indian Peaks Wilderness and it was straight-up magic. Between a quick burst of rain, the unreal reflection on the lake, and a champagne pop at sunset, these two made the most of every moment (and even ended the night in the water).
This session shows what’s possible when you slow down, lean into the chaos of Colorado weather, and let your connection lead the way. Plus, I’ll share all the details you need to know to plan your own Brainard Lake engagement session or elopement!
Where is Brainard Lake?
If you’re dreaming up engagement photos or planning a laid-back elopement in the mountains, this spot should be on your radar. Brainard Lake is part of the Indian Peaks Wilderness and is located within the Brainard Lake Recreation Area—a high alpine destination tucked just west of Boulder. It’s one of the most beautiful and accessible mountain locations in the Front Range, with views that feel like you’re way deeper into the Rockies than you actually are.
It’s the perfect setting for couples who want stunning scenery without a massive trek.
Closest Major Cities to Brainard Lake:
- Nederland, CO – About 30 minutes (15 miles)
- Boulder, CO – About 1 hour (25 miles)
- Denver, CO – About 1 hour 25 minutes (50 miles)
- Fort Collins, CO – About 1 hour 40 minutes (65 miles)
How to Get to Brainard Lake:
Closest Major Airports:
Denver International Airport (DIA) – ~1 hour 45 minutes
How to Drive to Brainard Lake:
Brainard Lake is located along Brainard Lake Road, just west of the town of Ward, CO. The main road is paved but can be narrow and winding, take it slow, especially during busy weekends. You’ll enter through the Brainard Lake Recreation Area entrance and need a timed entry reservation. (More on that below!)
Pro tip: Cell service is basically nonexistent once you’re in the area, so download your directions ahead of time and keep your permit handy by downloading it and printing it out.
From mid-June to mid-October, the main road is typically open and fully accessible by car. Outside of those months, road closures due to snow are common. Always double-check road status before heading out.
About Brainard Lake Recreation Area
This entire session took place right at Brainard Lake, which is part of the larger Indian Peaks Wilderness area. What makes this spot so special (besides the views that seriously don’t look real)? You get high alpine scenery: mountains, tall pines, a glassy lake, wildflower meadows, all without having to hike a single mile. It’s easy access with a major payoff.
There’s a short, dreamy tree-lined walkway from the parking lot that leads you straight to the lake. We didn’t hike for this session, but if you’re up for exploring more, the area has additional trails that lead to other alpine lakes and meadows. It’s also home to several campgrounds, which makes it an amazing base for a weekend elopement or engagement getaway.
To visit, you’ll need a timed entry pass, which you can grab online here. It costs $10 for day use, plus a $2 processing fee. Spots fill up fast, especially on weekends, so plan ahead! The area typically opens around mid-June and closes mid-October, depending on snow and trail conditions.
For lighting, sunrise brings alpenglow to the surrounding peaks, while sunset dips right behind the mountains and lake, creating a soft glow and beautiful reflections on the water. Blue hour here is quiet, calm, and peaceful—great for more privacy and those soft, glowy tones. The best time of year? Mid to late summer or early fall, when the trails are clear and the lake isn’t frozen.
If you’re looking to avoid crowds, aim for a weekday evening or an early morning session.
Some other things to note:
- Weather can be unpredictable (as you’ll see in this shoot), but sometimes that’s what makes it unforgettable.
- Cell service is spotty at best, so download your directions and permit in advance (it’s also recommended to print out your permit!).
- This location is dog-friendly, but pups must be kept on a handheld leash at all times.
- There are pit toilets near the parking lot.
Why Should You Do Your Engagement Photos or Elope at Brainard Lake?
Brainard Lake is one of the most underrated gems for couples looking to celebrate their love in the mountains, whether it’s for a laid-back engagement session or an intimate elopement.
Here’s why it should be at the top of your list:
Stunning alpine views without a strenuous hike: You can park and walk just a few minutes to jaw-dropping scenery. Think mountain peaks, a crystal-clear lake, tall skinny pines, and meadows full of wildflowers.
Close to major cities: You don’t have to go far off the grid to feel like you’re deep in the mountains. Brainard Lake is just about an hour from Boulder and under two hours from Denver and Fort Collins, making it easy for you (and any guests) to get there.
Perfect for all ability levels: Whether you want to keep things simple or add in a scenic hike, this area has something for everyone. There are short walks, accessible trails, and more adventurous options if you’re up for it.
Elopement-friendly + pet-friendly: Dogs are allowed on leash, and the landscape is varied enough that you can design a day that feels like you, whether that includes a champagne toast at the lake, a quiet moment in the woods, or even camping overnight.
Plenty to explore nearby: With Nederland just down the road and Boulder within reach, you can turn your elopement or session into a weekend getaway. Grab a drink in town, visit a local brewery, or spend the night in a cozy cabin.
Crowds are manageable: While this spot is popular, the timed entry system has made it way more peaceful than in past years. Sunrise and weekday evenings are especially quiet if you want a more private experience.
Bottom line? If you want somewhere beautiful, easy to get to, and full of variety, Brainard Lake checks all the boxes.
What to Wear for Brainard Lake Engagement Photos: Outfit Inspiration That Works
Andrew and Gabby absolutely nailed it when it came to choosing outfits that felt like them and looked incredible against the alpine backdrop.
For the first half of the session, Andrew wore a classic white tee with jeans and Gabby chose a red sundress paired with Blundstones—a combo that perfectly fit the vibe. Her dress popped beautifully against the green pines and mountain backdrop, and the boots were a fun, practical nod to the rugged setting without looking out of place.
For their second look, they changed in the car (pro move) and went with a slightly dressier feel. Andrew wore a light blue linen button-up with khakis, while Gabby switched into a short white bridal-style dress with sandals. The color palette was soft and natural, letting the golden light and mountain scenery do its thing without competing for attention. The white dress gave the whole second half of the session a subtle elopement feel, timeless and celebratory without being over the top.
They kept accessories simple but intentional: practical shoes, layered textures, and outfits that moved easily. All of it added variety to their gallery without feeling like a costume change. It felt honest to who they are and elevated just enough to make it feel special.
Personal Touches That Made This Brainard Lake Engagement Session Theirs
Andrew and Gabby made their Brainard Lake engagement session feel like them from start to finish, laid-back, fun, and full of little moments that told their story.
One of the most memorable things they did? Popping champagne at the edge of the lake as the sun broke through after a quick Colorado rain storm. It wasn’t just for the photo op (though, yeah—it looked damn good on camera). It felt like a celebration of everything: the moment, the view, their relationship. They didn’t overthink it or force anything, it was just something they wanted to do to mark the occasion.
Later in the session, they got into the lake. Gabby waded barefoot in her white dress, and Andrew followed with his pants rolled up. It was quiet and still, and the reflection on the water was wild. That spontaneous decision felt like the perfect way to close out the evening.
Fun Ideas for your Indian Peaks Wilderness Engagement Session
If you’re dreaming up your own Indian Peaks Wilderness engagement session, why not turn it into a full-on experience? This area is packed with opportunities to make the day feel more like a mini getaway and less like a rushed photo shoot.
Here’s some fun ideas:
Book a cozy cabin or Airbnb in Nederland, spend the evening before your session grabbing dinner and drinks at Crosscut Pizza or Knotted Root Brewing, then wake up slow the next morning. Bring coffee and pastries to the trailhead, and meet me at Brainard Lake for a sunrise session when the light is golden and the crowds haven’t shown up yet.
Want a session later in the day? Pack a picnic, or set up camp at a nearby campsite and spend the night under the stars. There are multiple campgrounds in the area (like Pawnee Campground), and a handful of hikes with big payoffs if you want to keep exploring together after photos.
Want something a little more offbeat? You could even bike the Peak to Peak Scenic Byway, stop at a few lookout points for photos, and end your session with a drink or firepit hang back at your rental.
Basically don’t treat this like just a photo op. Treat it like a day (or weekend) to celebrate the hell out of each other in one of the most beautiful places in Colorado, and I’ll tag along to photograph it. Because why shouldn’t your engagement photos feel like your favorite weekend together?
Your Colorado Engagement Photographer
Hey, Rachel here! A Colorado engagement photographer who’s obsessed with helping couples plan laid-back, meaningful sessions in places that feel like them. And if you couldn’t tell by now, I love Brainard Lake.
There’s something special about this spot. The stillness of the water, the way the sun dips behind the peaks, the easy access to jaw-dropping views. It all makes it one of my favorite places to photograph. I’ve spent time scouting the area, understanding the light, and helping couples like you feel at home in front of the camera out in the wild.
When you book me for your Brainard Lake engagement session, I’m not just showing up with a camera. I’m here to help you plan something that feels honest, intentional, and fun. I’ll guide you on things like permits, timing, outfit ideas, and how to make the most of Colorado’s unpredictable weather. Whether you want to keep it simple with one outfit and a toast by the lake or go all-in with a campfire and a weekend getaway, I’m here for it.
If you’re looking for engagement photos that feel real and rooted in the landscape you love, let’s make it happen. Reach out through my contact page to get started—I’d be stoked to help you plan your session!
Engagement Session Inspiration and Planning Resources
Whether you’re already set on Brainard Lake engagement photos or still dreaming up your perfect mountain backdrop, I hope this post gave you a little inspiration (and a lot of helpful info). Engagement sessions don’t have to be stiff or overly posed, they can be fun, relaxed, and rooted in what feels true to you.
And if you’re still planning? I’ve got you covered with more resources and real sessions to help you bring your vision to life:
Rocky Mountain National Park Engagement Session
Mountain Biking Couples Photos at Lory State Park
