Red Deer Lake is a remote alpine gem in Boulder County, Colorado, tucked deep into the Indian Peaks Wilderness and accessible via a long day hike or overnight backpacking trip from the Buchanan Pass Trailhead. The roughly 15-mile round trip with about 2,000 feet of elevation gain passes through expansive meadows, dense subalpine forest, and open tundra before arriving at a pristine lake that sees remarkably few visitors for its beauty.
The distance is what keeps Red Deer Lake uncrowded. Most hikers in the Indian Peaks gravitate toward shorter, more famous destinations, leaving Red Deer as a quiet reward for those willing to put in the miles. The trail is well established but long, and the final approach crosses open terrain where weather can change fast. Visitors who have made the trek describe the experience in one word: amazing.
Wildlife is a genuine highlight. The meadows along the trail are prime habitat for moose, which graze in the willows during early morning and evening hours. Elk and mule deer are also common. If you bring a dog, keep it leashed; off-leash dogs have been known to flush wildlife and disturb other visitors in this sensitive alpine environment.
Camping at Red Deer Lake is permitted with a wilderness camping permit, and the lakeside setting is outstanding for an overnight trip. No campfires are allowed, so bring a camp stove for cooking. The lake sits above treeline in places, and the surrounding peaks provide a dramatic backdrop for sunset and sunrise photography. Plan to arrive with time to spare, as the long approach means you want to be settled well before afternoon storms roll in.
There are no facilities at the lake or along the trail. The Buchanan Pass Trailhead has a small parking lot that fills quickly on summer weekends, particularly when backpackers leave vehicles overnight. Bring all water, food, and supplies, and pack out everything you carry in.
Red Deer Lake is best suited for experienced hikers and backpackers who want genuine solitude in one of Boulder County's most dramatic alpine settings. The miles are the price of admission, and the payoff is a lake that feels like it belongs to you alone.