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    Red Deer Lake Trail

    Difficulty
    This reflects the 10Adventures difficulty rating for each route. We aim to keep ratings consistent across regions.
    Moderate
    Duration
    This reflects the estimated time the majority of users will take on this trail. If you are slower, add time to the top-end figure. If you are fast, then you may complete this route faster than this time range.
    5.5-8h
    Distance
    This reflects the return distance of this route as measured by the GPS file.
    22.4 km
    Elevation
    This reflects the total elevation gained throughout this route as measured by the GPS file. This includes all ascents and descents, and is higher than what is quoted in most route guides, which simply measure the distance between the starting-point and high-point of the route.
    605 m
    User Ratings
    These ratings are completed by users who have completed this trail and not subject to reviews by 10Adventures.
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    Directions to Trailhead

    Discover one of the Indian Peak Wilderness’s hidden treasures. The Deer Lake Trail is a beautiful hike through verdant woodlands up to an idyllic alpine lake. From the lake, enjoy views of Sawtooth Mountain and Saint Vrain Mountain. Nestled among craggy peaks in a river valley, this isolated lake is like no other.

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    Route Description for Red Deer Lake Trail

    Hikers will trek through alpine forests and along a river valley when they complete this hike. The Red Deer Lake Hike is a lengthy hike through the Indian Peaks Wilderness. With fairly mild terrains and gradual elevation gain, this trail is great for those looking for an undemanding hike to vistas of the craggy Indian Peaks. Though undemanding terrain wise, this adventure is long and progressively climbs in altitude—it will surely get your blood pumping. When traversing this trail be mindful of moose, they are often spotted along this hike.

    Start the Red Deer Lake Hike from the Camp Dick Parking Lot. Head onto Country Road 92J before quickly veering right onto Buchanan Pass Trail. Buchanan Pass Trail is serene as it follows the curves of the Middle St. Vrain Creek and past cascading waterfalls and through the lush forest. This section of the trail is lengthy. Continue along the path as it ascends the treeline. As the hike progresses you will meet a junction with the Saint Vrain Mountain Trail, stay left on Buchanan Pass Trail. Continue north along the path as it begins to curve. Avoid branching off the trail and stay left as it winds south. Hike along the path until you meet the trail signposted “Deer Lake”. Turn right and ascend the path to Deer Lake, sights of the surrounding craggy peaks await you.

    After basking in the alpine scenery, retrace your steps. Maintain along the Buchanan Pass Trail for the entirety of your descent until you merge with Country Road 92J just prior to the carpark.

    Getting to the Red Deer Lake Trail Trailhead

    The Red Deer Lake Trail departs from the Camp Dick Campground off Country Road 92.

    Route Information

    • Backcountry Campground

      Yes, permits required.

    • When to do

      June-September

    • Pets allowed

      Yes - On Leash

    • Family friendly

      Older Children only

    • Route Signage

      Average

    • Crowd Levels

      Low

    • Route Type

      Out and back

    Red Deer Lake Trail Elevation Graph

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    Red Deer Lake Trail Reviews

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