Ward, Colorado

Ward, CO is a home rule municipality in Boulder County, just 20 miles northwest of Boulder. Playing a major part in the Colorado Gold Rush, it once was home to the state’s oldest and longest-lasting mining camps and at one point was the richest town in the state.

The town now serves as a satellite town to Boulder and is home to a few hundred residents that call Ward home. There is a tiny general store, a restaurant, and residential homes sprinkled throughout town. First settled in 1860, Ward now has a population of around 150.

Main Attractions

image of general store — The General Store in Ward, CO. Photo by Dave Wright

A few historic sites remain highlighting Ward’s past including the old Catholic church, the Historic Ward Community Church, and the old Ward Schoolhouse, which now serves as the Post Office, Town Hall, and library. With its location along the Peak to Peak Byway, Ward is just one of many historic and scenic stops along one of Colorado’s most beautiful scenic highways.

Brainard Lake Recreation Area – During the summer head just 5 miles west of town to Brainard Lake. There’s boating, camping, and a variety of trails open to hikers and horseback riders. In the winter go snowshoeing or cross country skiing. You can access trails in the Indian Peaks Wilderness from the trail system at Brainard Lake.

Recreation

image of Indian Peaks Wilderness — Indian Peaks Wilderness. Photo by 4Neus

Ward offers the idyllic location for outdoor recreation. Nestled in the Indian Peaks Wilderness, Ward is not far from Rocky Mountain National Park and is a short drive to Brainard Lake Recreation Area. Activities in the area include cross-country skiing, snowshoeing, hiking, biking, and camping.

Camping – Closest camping near Ward is available at the Pawnee Campground. It’s located about 15 miles west of town on Brainard Lake Road, 4.4 miles.

Read about the camping near Ward and Nederland.

Fishing – Head to Brainard Lake and cast a line. Boating is also permitted.

Hiking – – Brainard Lake Recreation Area offers a myriad of trails, which can connect further into Indian Peaks Wilderness. Overnight backpacking is commonplace is the beautiful national wilderness area.