Dowdy Lake Trail

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.