Brighton Lakes to Sunset Peak

Dogs No Dogs

One of the best features of this hike, is that it can easily be adjusted to accommodate shorter hikes. Though with the beautiful lakes and views from the top, it's unclear why you would want to.

Park in the lot on the south side of the Brighton Loop Road if you can, as the trailhead is located here. Take the Lake Mary Trail up through the ski resort, under chair lifts and past ski runs. The trail crosses a creek near the junction with the Dog Lake spur trail and heads up the creek to Lake Mary. Lake Mary is a wonderful place to hang out for a bit, and even is a good turn around point if you are looking for a shorter hike.

If continuing on, take a left onto the Brighton Lakes Trail to continue climbing a rather manageable grade past Lake Mary, Lake Martha and Lake Catherine. Both Lake Martha and Lake Catherine, are also good turn around points if you are feeling tired.

From lake Catherine the grade increases as you hop onto Ridge Trail #157 and then Sunset Peak Trail. However, the effort to reach Sunset Peak is worth it as the views of the valley and Brighton Lakes are incredible.