Red Feather Lakes, Colorado

About 45 miles west of Fort Collins, you’ll find the unincorporated community of Red Feather Lakes nestled in the Roosevelt National Forest. This small rustic town is an outdoor playground for those who love to fish, hike, and backpack.

Originally founded around 1900 by a group of ranchers and loggers, today the area is home to a guest ranch, a few restaurants, and a trading post. It has a population of 385 as of 2020 and is located in Larimer County. Visitors can enjoy the beautiful outdoor setting that surrounds this community, which sits at an elevation of 8,245 feet.

Main Attractions

image of Shamghala at Red Feathers Lake — The Great Stupa at Shambhala Mountain Center. Photo by: Chris Chikes

Cache La Poudre North Park Scenic & Historic Byway – The best way to explore the area is with a drive along this scenic byway. Taking travelers from the mountains to the plains, it begins at the west side of the Continental Divide and continues to the northern plains near Fort Collins.

Shambhala Mountain Center – One of the area’s more unique attractions is the Shambhala Mountain Center. This Buddhist retreat center offers yoga and meditation classes, workshops, and educational programs for those seeking peace and solitude.

Perhaps its biggest attraction (literally) is the Great Stupa. This Stupa, said to promote peace and harmony, is one of the biggest examples of sacred Buddhist architecture in North America.

Roosevelt National Forest – Red Feather Lakes is surrounded by this beautiful forest. With hiking, backpacking, fishing, rafting, boating, and kayaking the possibilities for adventure are endless.

Recreation

Rock formations on a lake — Rock formation on the lake as seen from Dowdy Lake Campground. Photo by: Ardeth Carlson

Camping – There are several designated campgrounds in the area including the Dowdy Lake Campground and the West Lake Campground. Read about the camping near Red Feather Lakes and Cache La Poudre River.

Fishing – With the Cache La Poudre River (Colorado’s only federally designated National and Wild Scenic River) close by as well as Red Feather Lakes, fishing opportunities are plentiful here.

Hiking –

Lady Moon trailhead is perfect for families and those with dogs. There are several off-shoots from this trailhead that go through meadows and offer great views of the surrounding forest.
Mt. Margaret is another trail system nearby. Featuring views from higher elevation and some interesting rock formations to discover.
North Lone Pine trail is a little further from town, but this 8.9 mile out and back trail offers unbeatable scenery and a stream to walk along.

Accommodations

Campsites in the forest — Beautiful scenery at the Alpine Lodge campground in Red Feather Lakes, CO. Photo by: facebook.com/Thealpinelodge

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Booking.com

Marr’s Mountain Cabins – Choose from one of six cabins situated on eight acres of land, including a privately owned lake. Each rental includes a full kitchen and flat-screen TV.

Beaver Meadows Resort Ranch – Stay in a cottage on this resort ranch and experience the beautiful scenery and peaceful area. Or opt for a cabin camper for a more rustic experience.

Alpine Lodge at Red Feather Lakes – Four cabins and multiple campsites make up this friendly, family-owned campground accommodation.

Read about the cabins to rent near Fort Collins, Red Feather Lakes and Estes Park.

Dining

Potbelly Restaurant and Lounge – Charming eatery with a fireplace, cold beer, and lots of options for a hearty meal.

Red Feather Tavern – Simple spot to grab lunch before a day of hiking around.

The Tavern at Red Feather Lakes – A great selection of sandwiches, steaks, and beer. They also have a gaming setup for the kids.

Special Events

Performers singing and crowd — Live music at Jamaland with an excited crowd. Photo by: Charla Harvey

Jun – Kids Fishing Contest – A special competition for the little fishermen, there are multiple categories that are eligible for prizes.

Jul – Independence Weekend – Enjoy two days of summer fun complete with a craft fair, book sale, community BBQ, and of course fireworks.

Sep – Red Feather Fire Days Events & Craft Fair – This unique event celebrates all things fire department related. With a firetruck parade, free rides in a truck, bingo, and a craft fair, Fire Days has something for everyone to enjoy.

Oct – Jamaland – Held in the forest near Lost Lake, this new event is an outdoor music lovers dream. Bring your tent for dispersed camping while you explore the woods and listen to live music.