Western Wanderlust Chronicles

When summer crowds retreat and the snow blankets the Indian Peaks Wilderness, the Rainbow Lakes area near Nederland transforms into a quiet, majestic wonderland. Nestled south of the busy Brainard Lake region, this high-alpine terrain beneath the towering Arapahoe Peaks becomes a rare treat to explore in winter—and I had the chance to experience it not once, but twice this season.

First Trip: Snowy Fun with Trena and Jessica

My first adventure up the Rainbow Lakes Road was with my friends Trena and Jessica. We braved the winter weather, driving into Nederland as light flurries began to fall, dusting the landscape in fresh snow. We parked at the Sourdough Trail lot since the Rainbow Lakes Road is impassable in winter, then snowshoed the half mile to the road closure. The snowshoe trail was quiet and serene—the kind of peace you only find when the world is muffled by snow.

About 30 minutes into the trek, we paused for a short break, soaking in the stillness and subtle beauty of the forest. We spotted prints from some classic old-time snowshoes, and even got a glimpse of a local Search and Rescue team out training—they had a new toy with them, which looked pretty cool from afar!

The wide snow-covered path was flanked by pine trees and stretches of aspens standing bare in the soft winter light. We played around a bit, laughing and taking photos along the way, including a few fun shots of our snowshoes. The trail was mostly packed, but the snow was soft and fresh in places, making for a beautiful winter workout.

Time wasn’t on our side that day, so we weren’t able to make it all the way to the Rainbow Lakes Campground, but that didn’t dull the magic. On our way home, we made a quick stop at Boulder Falls. The frozen cascade peeked out from behind its icy veil, a perfect little bonus to the day. The falls, framed by rugged rock walls and dusted in snow, looked like something out of a fairy tale.

Second Trip: A Bluebird Day with Bill, Prince & Lennon

A few weeks later, Bill and I returned—this time with our furry companions, Prince and Lennon. The sky was a brilliant blue, the temperatures unseasonably warm, and the trails nearly empty. It was one of those Colorado days where you feel like the mountains are putting on a private show just for you.

The trail offered expansive mountain views, from snow-covered ridges to open meadows shimmering in sunlight. With snow crunching underfoot and the dogs happily bounding ahead, we passed peaceful forests and the occasional creek peeking through its icy crust. The beauty of the high alpine setting was undeniable—quiet, pristine, and soul-refreshing.

From there, it’s a gradual but steady 4.5-mile climb to the Rainbow Lakes Campground, gaining about 800 feet of elevation. We were treated to sweeping views of Niwot Ridge, Caribou Ridge, and the distant peaks of Klondike and Pomeroy along the way.

Some parts of the road were windswept and snow-free, so we carried our snowshoes for brief stretches, but most of the trail was well-packed and perfect for winter trekking. Reaching the campground felt like such a win—the area was blanketed in white, nestled beneath the glacier-carved tundra of Caribou Ridge. We would have had to continue to hike another mile before reaching the lakes, but we were happy to have made it to the campground.

A Winter Gem Worth Exploring

Snowshoeing to Rainbow Lakes in winter is no easy feat—especially if you plan to make the full 9-mile round trip. But even just hiking partway up the road offers stunning views, solitude, and a rewarding sense of adventure. Each trip on this trail felt unique: the soft snowfall and playful spirit of my first visit with Trena and Jessica brought quiet joy, while the clear skies and alpine grandeur on the second trip with Bill, Prince, and Lennon gave us a sense of accomplishment and awe.

It’s a reminder that the trail doesn’t have to change for the experience to feel completely new—sometimes it’s the company, the weather, or simply the mood you’re in. Whether you’re out for a short snowy stroll or determined to reach the campground, Rainbow Lakes offers a beautiful slice of the Indian Peaks in their quietest, most peaceful season.

Two visits, two different vibes—and both equally unforgettable.