Colorado · Hiking
Hiking in Red Feather Lakes, Colorado
Red Feather Lakes sits in the Roosevelt National Forest about 50 miles northwest of Fort Collins, and the hiking here is genuinely varied in a way that doesn't get enough attention.
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Red Feather Lakes sits in the Roosevelt National Forest about 50 miles northwest of Fort Collins, and the hiking here is genuinely varied in a way that doesn't get enough attention. The area's 248 listed routes range from flat forest roads like Transmission Road and Ottawa Way to more committed outings on Catamount Trail and Granite Ridge Trail. A good chunk of the network follows old forest development roads — Many Thunders Road (FDR 311), Laramie River Road, Bull Mountain Road — which means wide, well-drained surfaces that stay passable even after afternoon rain. Trails like McIntyre Trail, Picnic Rock Pass, and North Bald Mountain are tagged easy and work well for families or anyone easing into altitude. The elevation here sits in the 8,000-to-9,000-foot range, so even easy-rated routes will have first-timers breathing harder than expected. The Creedmore Lakes Trail and West Branch Trail add some destination appeal if you want water at the end of a walk. Killpecker Spur A, Skykiva Circle, and Trail Between The Pines fill out the mid-range options for hikers who want something quieter than the main corridors. The network is spread across a large area, so most trailheads require a short drive on unpaved county or forest roads — a high-clearance vehicle helps but isn't always mandatory.
Frequently asked questions
When is the best time of year to hike at Red Feather Lakes?
Late June through September is the reliable window. Snow can linger on shaded sections of trails like Catamount Trail and Creedmore Lakes Trail into early June, and the forest roads used by routes like Many Thunders Road (FDR 311) and Laramie River Road can be muddy and rutted through late spring. October is beautiful and uncrowded but early snowstorms are possible, so check the forecast before heading out.
What time of day should I start a hike here?
Start by 8 or 9 a.m. Afternoon thunderstorms roll in most summer days, typically between 1 and 3 p.m., and they can be severe at this elevation. Trails like North Bald Mountain and Granite Ridge Trail leave you exposed if you're caught out late. An early start also means cooler temperatures and better odds of seeing wildlife before the day heats up.
Do I need a permit or pass to hike in the Red Feather Lakes area?
Most trailheads in the Roosevelt National Forest do not require a day-use fee or permit for hiking. That said, regulations can vary by specific trailhead and use type, so check with the Canyon Lakes Ranger District before your trip, especially if you're bringing dogs or planning an overnight. Rules around campfires and dispersed camping are enforced and can change seasonally due to fire conditions.
What gear do I actually need for the easier trails like McIntyre Trail or Roger's Run Trail?
Trail runners or light hiking shoes are fine for easy-rated routes on dry days. Bring more layers than you think you need — temperatures at this elevation can drop 20 degrees when a storm moves through, even in July. A rain shell, at least a liter of water per person, and sun protection are non-negotiable. Trekking poles aren't required but help on any loose gravel sections.
Are the forest roads like Transmission Road and Bull Mountain Road open to hikers, or are they vehicle routes?
Many routes in the Red Feather Lakes network follow forest development roads that are open to both vehicles and non-motorized users. Hiking them is legal and common, but expect occasional truck or ATV traffic, especially on weekends. If you want a quieter experience, trails like Trail Between The Pines, Killpecker Spur A, and Skykiva Circle tend to see less vehicle use.
