Dowdy Lake Trail

Hike the Dowdy Lake Trail around the lovely shoreline. Enjoy sights of paddlers, kayakers and anglers all enjoying what Dowdy Lake has to offer. This trail is perfect for a family nature excursion in the Colorado Wilderness. Kids will love exploring the shoreline and you’ll love the scenic vistas that encompass the lake.
Quick Navigation
Subscribe to our newsletter
Get a weekly dose of discounts and inspiration for adventure lovers
Route Description for Dowdy Lake Trail
The Dowdy Lake Trail is a popular hike within the Red Feather Lakes region. This lovely trail follows a wide dirt route around the entirety of the lake. Walk this trail with the whole family, and then try your hand at some trout fishing after the hike. This trail tends to get busy in the summer months, so we recommend arriving early to beat the crowds and the windy afternoon weather. However, we love hiking this trail in the early morning or in the evening, so we can revel in the breathtaking beauty of the calm, mirrored lake that reflects the vistas of the rolling hills above. Trust us, it is wonderful!
Embark on your adventure around the Dowdy Lake Trail from the parking lot near the picnic area. This trail can be completed from either direction, but we recommend going clockwise. Begin by tracking northeast on the Dowdy Lake Trail past the boat launch. The path will guide you to the shores edge where you can enjoy expansive views of the shimmering lake. At the north end of the lake, you will meet a junction, stay right and you will be diverted onto the Frog Pond Trail. This section of the trail will curve you south as you trek along the east side of Dowdy Lake.
As you hike along the east side of the lake you will cross many small creeks and there will be many off-shoot trails. The path will eventually merge back onto Dowdy Lake Trail, once you get back on this route, do not diverge off the path. Continue hiking as the trail guides you to the south end of the lake. Hike this route and you will pass the Dowdy Lake Campground before the trail delivers back to the parking lot.
Getting to the Dowdy Lake Trail Trailhead
Find the Dowdy Lake Trailhead at the end of the Dowdy Lake Road off of Highway 74E.
Route Information
Dowdy Lake Trail Elevation Graph
Weather Forecast
Check Area WeatherDowdy Lake Trail Reviews
Add a comment
You must be logged in to post a comment.