I think the Brainard Lake region in the Indian Peaks Wilderness Area is one of the better places to see a sunrise in Colorado. During the spring, the road remains closed at the gate near Red Rock Lake and a short hike is required to access Brainard Lake. A bit farther in lies Long Lake, the east shore of which provides great sunrise photography opportunities. Lake Isabelle is even farther in, at the base of the higher peaks. The only problem with doing photography in this area is the wind. I’ve encountered wind, strong wind, on many more mornings in this area than anywhere else I’ve visited in Colorado. Mornings here are rarely crowded though.
