Where Colorado Keeps Its Secrets

Tucked away in the mountains of northern Colorado, Red Feather Lakes is a small, peaceful community that feels like a step back in time. Located about 50 miles northwest of Fort Collins, this hidden gem offers a quiet escape from city life. With fewer than 500 full-time residents, it’s a place where neighbors know each other, the pace is slow, and nature takes center stage. The town has no traffic lights, no big stores, and no local government, just friendly people and a deep sense of independence. Many homes rely on wells for water, and some cabins still use outhouses. But for those who live here, that’s part of the charm. The landscape is filled with pine trees, log cabins, and clear, cold lakes that are perfect for fishing or paddling but not ideal for swimming due to year-round low temperatures.

At the heart of the town is the Red Feather Trading Post, a small shop that truly has a bit of everything: groceries, gas, souvenirs, and even live bait for fishing. It’s run by longtime local Georgia Robedeau, who treats visitors like old friends. Just down the road, real estate agent David W. Birks helps people find everything from weekend campsites to mountain homes. He says many are looking for a retreat from busy lives, a place to hike, fish, or just sit by the fire and enjoy the peace. Red Feather Lakes is surrounded by the Arapaho-Roosevelt National Forest, offering easy access to outdoor adventures and wildlife viewing.

The community is also proud of its history. The Red Feather Historical Society preserves stories from the town’s founding in 1923, including how it was named after a Native American singer known as Princess Red Feather. Each summer, the town comes alive with visitors for its popular Fourth of July celebration, complete with fireworks, music, and community gatherings. But even outside the holidays, Red Feather Lakes offers something special: a quiet, welcoming atmosphere where people come to unplug and reconnect with nature. For those looking for a slower, simpler way of life, it’s not just a beautiful place to visit, it might just be the perfect place to stay.