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Photo by Jay Mantri on Unsplash
EasyGravel

East Dowdy Lake Trail

Red Feather Lakes, Colorado · Larimer County · US Forest Service · FR 973.1

East Dowdy Lake Trail is a easy hiking trail near Red Feather Lakes in Larimer County, Colorado.. The surface is gravel. Managed by US Forest Service. Trail data is sourced from OpenStreetMap.

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40.79902, -105.54601
Open in OpenStreetMap
5-Day Forecast

Weather at East Dowdy Lake Trail

Live forecast for the trailhead. Use it to pack and time your hike.

Avg High80°F
Avg Low57°F
Peak Rain Chance33%
Humidity49%
UV (avg)8
Air Quality45 · Good
Today
🌦
Light Drizzle
77°/60°
💧 11%🌬 19mph
5:54 AM8:22 PM
Tue
Violent Rain
79°/56°
💧 16%🌬 15mph
5:55 AM8:21 PM
Wed
🌦
Rain Showers
74°/58°
💧 33%🌬 19mph
5:56 AM8:20 PM
Thu
🌦
Light Drizzle
83°/58°
💧 14%🌬 15mph
5:57 AM8:19 PM
Fri
☁️
Overcast
85°/55°
💧 7%🌬 13mph
5:58 AM8:18 PM

Forecast data © Open-Meteo. Refreshed every 6 hours. Always check the most recent forecast before heading out.

About East Dowdy Lake Trail

East Dowdy Lake Trail is a easy hiking trail near Red Feather Lakes in Larimer County, Colorado.. The surface is gravel. Managed by US Forest Service. Trail data is sourced from OpenStreetMap.

What “Easy” Means

Gentle terrain, well-marked. Suitable for all ages and fitness levels.

Difficulty is derived from OpenStreetMap’s Swiss Alpine Club (SAC) hiking scale, trail visibility, surface, distance, and elevation gain. Always verify current conditions before heading out.

What to Pack & Wear

Personalised to this trail’s length, elevation, difficulty, and the live forecast.

👔 What to Wear

  • 👕
    Moisture-wicking T-shirt
    Light color, breathable.
  • 🩳
    Lightweight shorts or pants
    Quick-dry preferred — sweat dries fast.
  • 🧢
    Brimmed sun hat
    Better than a cap for back-of-neck protection.
  • 🥾
    Trail runners
    Breathable mesh uppers.

🎒 What to Pack

  • 💧
    Water
    Bring at least 1L of water; more in heat.
  • 🍫
    High-energy snacks
    A snack for the trail.
  • 🧴
    Sun protection (UV 8)
    SPF 50+ sunscreen, lip balm w/ SPF, sunglasses, sun hat.
  • 🩹
    First-aid kit
    Blister patches, ibuprofen, tape, antiseptic wipes.
  • 🗺
    Offline map
    Download your route in advance via Gaia, Caltopo, or OSM-based apps.
  • 🛍
    Dry bags for electronics
    Phone, camera, and snacks should stay dry.

Recommendations adapt to the current forecast + trail stats. Use them as a starting point — local conditions, your experience, and the time of day you start all matter.

Trail Safety in Colorado

Trail conditions in Colorado change with weather, season, and fire activity. Closures, washouts, and rerouting are common. Before heading out:

  • Check with the land manager for current conditions and closures
  • Tell someone your plan and expected return time
  • Know your turn-around limits — conditions can change fast
  • Carry the 10 essentials: water, food, navigation, first aid, light, fire, shelter, knife, sun protection, extra clothes

Frequently Asked Questions

How hard is East Dowdy Lake Trail?

East Dowdy Lake Trail is rated Easy. Suitable for most hikers including families.

Can I ride a bike on East Dowdy Lake Trail?

Yes — bicycles are allowed on this trail.

Are horses allowed on East Dowdy Lake Trail?

Yes — horseback riding is permitted.

What is the trail surface on East Dowdy Lake Trail?

The surface is gravel. Natural surface — sturdy footwear recommended; can be muddy after rain.

When is the best time to hike East Dowdy Lake Trail?

Colorado has trail conditions that vary by season. Spring and fall usually offer the best mix of temperature and trail conditions. Check the 5-day forecast above for current outlook. Always verify trail status (closures, washouts, fire restrictions) with the local land manager before going.

Who manages East Dowdy Lake Trail?

East Dowdy Lake Trail is managed by US Forest Service. Check the operator’s website for current permits, fees, and restrictions.