A 3-Day Backpacking Fly Fishing Trek to Browns Lake with a Stop at Browns Creek Falls
Imagine planning an invigorating 3-Day Backpacking Fly Fishing Trek to Browns Lake. Envision three days deep in Colorado’s backcountry. You are hiking through scenery that makes you pause and admire, perhaps within the San Isabel National Forest or a similar wilderness area.
You discover a waterfall so picturesque it seems crafted for a postcard. The best part involves fly fishing for spirited trout in a clear, beautiful alpine lake. That truly is the Browns Lake adventure.
I recently completed this 3-Day Backpacking Fly Fishing Trek to Browns Lake, and it was a fantastic mix. It had the right amount of physical challenge, peaceful moments, and the satisfying feeling of a fish tugging on your line. If you love hiking or are a dedicated fly fisherman, this trip will feel perfect for you, a true recreation gem. Perhaps you just need a good reason to eat lots of trail mix; this trip provides ample justification.
Day one includes a scenic hike with a memorable stop at Browns Creek Falls. Day two is all about fishing, exploring, and soaking up the beauty by Browns Lake. On day three, you get a few last casts in before you begin the hike out from this splendid fishing lake.
I’m going to share information about the best fly patterns to tempt those clever Browns Lake trout. So, grab your rod, tighten your boot laces with their sturdy vibram soles, and let’s picture hitting that lake trail together.
Table of Contents
Preparation: Getting Your Gear Ready
Before you can enjoy the great outdoors, you have to pack smart. Good preparation makes a significant difference between a tough time and a great trip, especially when venturing into a national forest at high elevation .
Here’s what you should consider bringing along for your journey. This preparation is crucial whether you’re heading to Browns Lake or even exploring other areas like the Colville National Forest or Roosevelt National Forest , though local conditions and regulations will vary, so always check the specific forest service gov website for the area you plan to visit.
Backpacking Essentials
Your backpack is your home on your back, so choose a good one; a 50 to 60 liter pack usually works well for a three-day trip like this. You’ll also need a lightweight tent, something easy to set up after a long day of hiking the uphill trail . A warm sleeping bag is critical because mountain nights get surprisingly cold, even in summer, especially near a timberline lake .
Look for one rated appropriately for alpine conditions, perhaps down to 20 or 30 degrees Fahrenheit. A sleeping pad adds comfort and much-needed insulation from the cold ground. Don’t forget your camp stove, fuel, and basic cookware; think a small pot, a spork, and a mug.
For food, dehydrated meals are light and easy. Peanut butter and jelly sandwiches are a classic for a reason, too. And absolutely bring a water filter or purification tablets; you’ll be drinking from creeks and the lake. Always ensure your water sources are clean, a standard practice for any national forest recreation activity.
Fly Fishing Gear Checklist
For fly fishing, a 3 or 4 weight fly rod is perfect for this fishing lake . The trout in Browns Lake are beautiful but not usually huge, though an occasional large fish is possible. A 8 to 9 foot rod length offers good casting control.
Match it with a reliable reel and good quality fly line; weight forward floating line is standard. You’ll need tapered leaders, probably 7.5 to 9 feet long, in 4x or 5x strength. Bring spools of tippet in similar sizes, like 4x, 5x, and maybe 6x for tricky fish.
A well-stocked fly box is invaluable; I’ll talk more about specific flies later. A small landing net is optional; I often just carefully use my hands, especially for smaller fish, to make sure of a quick release. Some folks prefer fishing without waders for backpacking to save weight and space, opting to wet wade if needed or fish from the bank, a common approach at Browns Lake in summer. Remember, while cutthroat are the main attraction here, some Colorado waters also hold brook trout .
Fly Fishing Gear Checklist
For fly fishing, a 3 or 6 weight fly rod is perfect for this fishing lake . The trout in Browns Lake are beautiful but not usually huge, though an occasional large fish is possible. A 8 to 9 foot rod length offers good casting control.
Match it with a reliable reel and good quality fly line; weight forward floating line is standard. You’ll need tapered leaders, probably 7.5 to 9 feet long, in 4x or 5x strength. Bring spools of tippet in similar sizes, like 4x, 5x, and maybe 6x for tricky fish.
A well-stocked fly box is invaluable; I’ll talk more about specific flies later. A small landing net is optional; I often just carefully use my hands, especially for smaller fish, to make sure of a quick release. Some folks prefer fishing without waders for backpacking to save weight and space, opting to wet wade if needed or fish from the bank, a common approach at Browns Lake in summer. Remember, while cutthroat are the main attraction here, some Colorado waters also hold brook trout .
Clothing for the Mountains
Layers are your best friends in the mountains because the weather can change fast. Start with a moisture-wicking base layer, both top and bottom. Next, a fleece jacket or a light puffy jacket for warmth.
Then, a waterproof and windproof outer shell jacket and pants are absolutely essential for comfort at high elevation . You really need sturdy, broken-in hiking boots with good ankle support and reliable vibram soles . Pack a few pairs of wool hiking socks to keep your feet dry and happy.
A wide-brimmed hat for sun protection during the day and a warm beanie for chilly evenings and mornings are great. Don’t forget sunglasses, preferably polarized, to cut glare off the water and protect your eyes during your recreation time.
Browns Creek Trail Images
A Word on Pack Weight
Here’s a pro tip I learned the hard way: test your fully loaded pack at home before your trip. Lift it, walk around with it. If you grunt and strain just to get it on your back, you’ve likely packed too much. This careful planning is important for any trip, including extensive forest recreation .
I once carried a heavy hardcover book on a backpacking trip, thinking I’d have lots of reading time. That was a big mistake; my shoulders and back paid the price. Try to stick to the essentials and find multi-use items where possible. Your body will thank you on those uphill trail climbs common in mountainous national forest terrain.
Day 1: The Hike In and a Waterfall Surprise
The adventure starts at the Browns Creek Trailhead. It’s located near Nathrop, Colorado, possibly a few miles southeast of Salida, easily accessible via a dirt road that leads to the parking lot , but feels a world away once you start walking. Thelake trail to Browns Lake is about six miles one way and is a popular recreation route.
It has a moderate climb that will get your heart rate up and your legs working. Remember to check if the site open and trail conditions via the local forest service gov website before you depart; sometimes this information is under a recreation section or even an agriculture menu on broader gov websites covering national forest lands. Anofficial government organization like the forest service will have the most current details.
Starting at Browns Creek Trailhead
I aimed for an early start, full of coffee and excitement for what lay ahead on the creek trail . The trail begins by winding through lovely meadows. Soon, you enter fragrant pine forests within the San Isabel National Forest .
Mighty Mt. Antero often peeks out over the horizon, reminding you of the grand scale of the landscape. The first couple of miles of the uphill trail are fairly steep. This part is great for building character, I told myself, as I panted a bit more than I’d like to admit.
The air is thinner up here at this high elevation , so take your time and drink plenty of water. The San Isabel National Forest surroundings are just stunning, a prime example of national forest recreation opportunities offered by the forest service . This isn’t the Colville National Forest or Roosevelt National Forest ; each national forest has its own distinct character and recreation guidelines.
Browns Creek Fall on the Way to Browns Lake Fly Fishing
Majestic Browns Creek Falls
Around two and a half miles into the hike along the creek trail , you’ll see a sign for the turnoff to Browns Creek Falls. You’ll probably hear the roar of the water before you see it. This waterfall is a truly impressive sight, a key point of interest in this travel zone .
Water cascades powerfully over a series of rock ledges. It’s especially impressive in late spring and early summer when the snowmelt is at its peak. I found a comfortable rock, dropped my pack, and just sat there for a while.
It was a perfect spot for photos and to dip my tired feet into the icy, refreshing water. I even thought about a quick shower under the falls but decided against it. The water was incredibly cold. My singing might have scared off all the wildlife for miles, ruining the forest recreation for others.
Reaching Browns Lake
After the falls, the lake trail thankfully mellows out a bit. It continues to weave through beautiful aspen groves, which must be spectacular in the fall. You’ll cross Browns Creek a couple of times on somewhat wobbly log bridges, perhaps near where a smaller stream like a hypothetical Beaver Creek might join.
These crossings add a little fun challenge. I managed them with only slightly damp boots, feeling quite accomplished. As late afternoon approached, I finally reached Browns Lake, a stunning fishing lake and timberline lake .
The lake is a true alpine gem. It sits peacefully in a high basin within this wilderness area , completely surrounded by rugged, imposing peaks. I found a nice spot to set up my tent near the shore, not necessarily one of the formal designated sites but following Leave No Trace principles. Dinner was some simple but satisfying ramen, enjoyed while watching a beautiful sunset paint the sky in shades of orange and purple. Day one was complete, and I couldn’t wait for fish time tomorrow; I certainly didn’t fish that first evening, saving my energy.
3-Day Backpacking Fly Fishing Trek to Browns Lake: Day 2 – Fly Fishing Bliss
I woke up to the sound of birds chirping their morning songs. The calm surface of Browns Lake, this exceptional fishing lake , seemed to be calling my name. After a quick breakfast of oatmeal and coffee, I eagerly grabbed my fly rod. It was time to get down to business and hopefully catch some large fish .
Waking Up Lakeside
There’s something truly special about waking up next to an alpine timberline lake . The air is crisp and clean at this high elevation . The only sounds are those of nature.
Browns Lake is primarily home to Greenback Cutthroat Trout. These are Colorado’s native trout, and they are absolutely beautiful with vibrant colors and distinctive red slashes under their jaws. It’s a different experience than fishing for brook trout in other waters.
The lake is regularly stocked, so there’s a healthy population. These fish aren’t always the pickiest eaters, but they definitely appreciate a good, natural presentation of your fly. This makes for a good day for any fly fisherman .
Best Fly Patterns for Browns Lake Trout
Having the right flies can make a big difference for a fly fisherman . Here’s what I found worked well at Browns Lake, and what many anglers recommend for high country trout in a national forest setting. Themain content of your fly box should include these options.
| Fly Type | Pattern Examples | Sizes | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|
| Dry Flies | Parachute Adams, Elk Hair Caddis, Royal Wulff | 14-18 | For rising fish, imitate mayflies, caddis. Good visibility. |
| Nymphs | Pheasant Tail, Hare’s Ear | 16-18 | Subsurface, imitate larvae, use with indicator or dry-dropper. |
| Streamers | Woolly Bugger (olive, black, brown) | 10-12 | Imitate leeches, minnows, sculpin, for potentially large fish . |
| Terrestrials | Black Ants, Beetle patterns, Hoppers | 14-16 | Late summer/fall, imitate land insects blown into the water. |
Dry Flies
When fish are rising, small dry flies are often the ticket. A Parachute Adams in sizes 14 to 18 is a classic all-rounder. It can imitate various mayflies and midges that hatch on the lake.
The Elk Hair Caddis, also in sizes 14 to 18, floats high and is easy to see. Caddis are abundant in many mountain streams and lakes. Sometimes, a slightly flashier attractor pattern like a Royal Wulff can provoke a strike from more aggressive fish.
Look for surface activity, especially in the mornings and evenings. Afly fisherman dreams of these moments.
Nymphs
If the fish aren’t actively feeding on the surface, it’s time to go subsurface with nymphs. A Pheasant Tail nymph or a Hare’s Ear nymph in sizes 16 to 18 are reliable choices. These simple patterns imitate a wide variety of aquatic insects in their larval stage.
You can fish them under a small strike indicator to detect subtle takes. Or, try a dry-dropper setup, with a buoyant dry fly acting as the indicator and a nymph trailing below it. This tactic is effective in many national forest waters.
Streamers
If you’re hoping to tempt a larger cutthroat, try casting a small streamer. A Woolly Bugger in olive, black, or brown, perhaps in sizes 10 or 12, can be very effective. These imitate leeches, minnows, or large dragonfly nymphs, appealing to the appetite of a large fish .
Cast it out, let it sink a bit, then retrieve it with short strips and pauses. This can often trigger an aggressive strike from bigger, more predatory trout that might be lurking in deeper water or near underwater structure.
Terrestrials
During late summer and early fall, terrestrial insects become an important food source. Black Ants and small Beetle patterns in sizes 14 to 16 can be deadly. These imitate ants, beetles, and other land-based bugs that get blown into the water.
Fish often cruise the banks looking for these easy meals. Hopper patterns can also work if you see grasshoppers around. A well-placed terrestrial can save a day when other patterns fail, making for a good day on the water.
My Morning on the Water
I decided to start with an Elk Hair Caddis. I waded out a short distance from shore, casting near some submerged rocks. These spots looked like prime trout-holding water.
On my third cast, wham. A fish rose confidently and inhaled the fly. A beautiful 10-inch cutthroat trout leaped clear of the water. It put up a spirited fight on my lightweight rod before I carefully brought it to hand. I’m glad the lake didn’t fail to produce; sometimes, a promising fishing lake can be fickle, but not Browns Lake this time. Some trips to other places, I didn’t fish with such success so early.
I admired its stunning colors, snapped a quick photo, and gently released it back into the cool water. That morning, I managed to catch and release about half a dozen more fish. One particularly feisty cutthroat nearly pulled the rod from my grasp. It was a fantastic start to the day.
Afternoon Exploration and More Fishing
Around midday, I took a break from fishing to explore the area around the lake. I hiked partway around the shoreline, discovering hidden coves and enjoying the different perspectives of the surrounding peaks. One could imagine a separate Beaver Creek Trail leading off into another valley, though my focus was Browns Lake itself. This kind of recreation in a wilderness area is restorative.
I spotted some beautiful alpine wildflowers blooming and even saw a mule deer doe drinking cautiously at the water’s edge. I found a quiet spot with amazing mountain views, a perfect place for lunch. It felt far removed from concerns like checking if you’ve safely connected to secure websites or navigating a gov website belongs to which government organization – just pure nature.
Later in the afternoon, I tried my luck with a Black Ant pattern. The fish seemed to love it. I landed a few more nice cutthroats before deciding to relax back at camp with a book. Dinner was some delicious mac and cheese, eaten while listening to the gentle lapping of waves against the shore. Day two at Browns Lake was pure bliss.
Day 3: One Last Cast and the Journey Home
The third day dawned crisp and wonderfully clear. I knew my time at this mountain paradise within the national forest was drawing to a close. But I wasn’t about to leave without trying for one more fish, or maybe a few more. This wasn’t going to be a trip where I regretted that I didn’t fish enough.
Morning Fishing Success
This morning, I decided to tie on a small olive Woolly Bugger. I had a feeling it might attract a slightly large fish . I waded out near the lake’s outlet, where the water starts to form Browns Creek again.
I cast the streamer out, let it sink for a few seconds, and then began a slow, steady stripping retrieve. Bam. A solid hit. The line went tight, and the fish took off, making my reel sing. This was definitely a bigger fish. I was thankful that Browns Lake didn’t disappoint on this final morning.
It fought hard, making several strong runs and headshakes. After a thrilling battle, I carefully guided a beautiful, plump 14-inch cutthroat into my net. It was the best fish of the trip, and a perfect way to cap off the fishing adventure. I fished for another hour, catching and releasing a couple more enthusiastic trout. Then, with a satisfied sigh, I reeled in my line for the last time. It had been a very good day of recreation .
Packing Up: Leave No Trace
Packing up camp was a little bittersweet. I took my time, making sure I had all my gear. More importantly, I carefully scanned my campsite. I triple-checked to make absolutely certain I left no trace of my visit to this beautiful wilderness area managed by the forest service .
Pack it in, pack it out is the golden rule for all national forest recreation . This means all trash, even tiny scraps of food or paper. I try to follow the Leave No Trace principles every time I’m in the backcountry, whether it’s here or in another national forest like the Colville National Forest or Roosevelt National . It helps keep these wild places beautiful for everyone; it’s our shared responsibility.
Before any trip, it’s wise to check the official website or gov website of the specific national forest for current guidelines. Many forest service sites list recreation rules, if a site open , and any fire bans. These official websites are the most reliable source from the government organization in charge.
The Hike Out
With my pack on my back, I hit the lake trail , now heading down the creek trail , for the journey home. The hike out was mostly downhill, which was a welcome change for my legs. Although, they still reminded me of the climb up the uphill trail on day one. The miles seemed to pass more quickly this time.
I made another stop at Browns Creek Falls. I refilled my water bottle and took a few minutes to soak in the view and the sound of the rushing water one last time. The air felt fresh, and the sounds of the national forest were a peaceful backdrop. Unlike more developed recreation areas, the quiet here was profound.
By late afternoon, I was back at the Browns Creek Trailhead parking lot , emerging from the dirt road access point. I was dusty, definitely tired, but also sporting a huge grin. What an incredible trip it had been, a perfect example of challenging yet rewarding forest recreation managed by the forest service .
Conclusion of 3-Day Backpacking Fly Fishing Trek to Browns Lake
This 3-Day Backpacking Fly Fishing Trek to Browns Lake is truly a winner. It offers a fantastic combination of challenging yet rewarding hiking, excellent fishing opportunities for the dedicated fly fisherman , and scenery that will genuinely impress you within this national forest wilderness area . Make sure to bring extra camera batteries or a power bank. Before you go, check that the site open and trail conditions via the forest service gov website ; sometimes details are found under a recreation tab, or even an agriculture menu or main content section of larger gov websites .
The stop at Browns Creek Falls is a highlight in itself. The beautiful Greenback Cutthroat Trout at Browns Lake are the perfect reward for your efforts, making it a superior fishing lake experience compared to a hypothetical day where the lake didn’t cooperate or if you didn’t fish at all. It’s different from searching for brook trout or fishing larger waters like Comanche Reservoir or South Lake ; Browns Lake has its own alpine charm.
Just remember to prepare intelligently, pack everything you need but nothing more, fish with respect for the resource, and definitely do not skimp on the bug spray. Whether you’re chasing wild trout or simply seeking some peace and quiet in a stunning natural setting like this part of the national forest (distinct from others like Colville National Forest or Roosevelt National Forest ), this adventure gives you exactly that. It’s a top-tier recreation opportunity.
So, what are you waiting for? Get out there and start planning your own 3-Day Backpacking Fly Fishing Trek to Browns Lake. You’ll make memories that last a lifetime. I’m already thinking about when I can return to this or explore another creek trail or beaver creek trail in a similar high elevation setting. Have a good day planning.
