Browns Lake Trail

Difficulty
This reflects the 10Adventures difficulty rating for each route. We aim to keep ratings consistent across regions.
Moderate
Duration
This reflects the estimated time the majority of users will take on this trail. If you are slower, add time to the top-end figure. If you are fast, then you may complete this route faster than this time range.
4.5-6h
Distance
This reflects the return distance of this route as measured by the GPS file.
14.8 km
Elevation
This reflects the total elevation gained throughout this route as measured by the GPS file. This includes all ascents and descents, and is higher than what is quoted in most route guides, which simply measure the distance between the starting-point and high-point of the route.
631 m
User Ratings
These ratings are completed by users who have completed this trail and not subject to reviews by 10Adventures.
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Directions to Trailhead

On your next trip to the Roosevelt National Forest make sure to add the Browns Lake Trail to your itinerary. This adventure is challenging, but the stunning scenery will make you forget all about your tired feet. Enjoy the fresh mountain air as you ascend the pine woodlands, cross lush alpine meadows, and summit a peak’s ridge all before culminating at the breathtaking alpine lake.

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Route Description for Browns Lake Trail

The Browns Lake Trail is an unforgettable backcountry excursion. Though you can complete this hike in a day no problem, consider breaking it up and making it a backpacking excursion instead. Either way, you will get to enjoy the awe-inspiring vistas that this route has to offer. Note that the path summits high altitudes, so be cautious of afternoon storms and check the weather prior to your departure. Though mostly shaded, the path does weave through exposed areas, wearing layers is always a good insurance for windy weather.

Begin your adventure from the Browns Lake Trailhead. From the trailhead, track south along the Browns Lake Trail. This path will guide you below tree coverage. Hike along this route for a while before you will begin to ascend towards Crown Point. You will summit the timberline and climb up the ridge of Crown Point Peak. Navigate the saddle between Crown Point and Crown Benchmark before descending into the grassy plains below. Walk through the alpine willows and you will intersect with the flowers trail. Maintain on the Browns Lake Trail as you pass several awesome dispersed campsites.

You will again be encompassed by pine trees as you descend down to the alpine lake. If you are camping, there are several epic campsites around the lake to settle for the night, and if not, take your time and explore the shores of the picturesque lake. Hemmed by craggy cliffs dotted with pine trees, the sight from Browns Lake is unforgettable. In our opinion it is truly one of the best lake hikes in the area. After you refuel and rehydrate, simply retrace your steps back to the carpark.

Getting to the Browns Lake Trail Trailhead

Embark on your adventure to Browns Lake from the trailhead off of Crown Point Road.

Route Information

  • Backcountry Campground

    Yes, Dispersed Camping at Designated Campsites, see rules and regulations

  • When to do

    May-October

  • Pets allowed

    Yes - On Leash

  • Family friendly

    Older Children only

  • Route Signage

    Average

  • Crowd Levels

    Moderate

  • Route Type

    Out and back

Browns Lake Trail Elevation Graph

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