Lady Moon To Powerline: Red Feather Lakes, CO
Enjoy a leisurely walk through the scenic beauty of Roosevelt National Forest on the Lady Moon to Powerline Trail Loop. This easy loop trail meanders around the perimeter of a wide meadow, offering beautiful views of rock formations, trees, and distant mountainscapes. It's a perfect hike for those seeking a tranquil escape in nature.
Trail Details:
Trail Description: The Lady Moon to Powerline Trail Loop begins at the Lady Moon Trailhead and quickly leads you to the edge of a large meadow. The trail circles the meadow's perimeter, providing constant, open views of the surrounding landscape. The path begins within a mix of aspen groves (offering beautiful fall colors) that quickly opens up to a meadow with interesting rock formations scattered throughout. The route involves a couple of stream crossings, one year-round and one seasonal (spring). The trail gradually ascends until it connects with the Molly Moon Trail, which you'll follow for a portion before a connector trail leads you back down through the meadow and onto the Powerline Trail, eventually rejoining the Lady Moon Trail.
Route Type: Loop
Distance: 2.3 miles
Elevation Gain: 164 feet
Highest Point: 8,232 feet
Difficulty Level: Easy
Surface: The trail is primarily dirt with a few sections taking you through shallow streams.
Exposure: This trail is extremely exposed to the elements.
Views: Mountains, rock formations, and scenic meadow views.
Animals: Small wildlife like birds, chipmunks, and squirrels can be found along the trail. Evidence of deer and elk has also been observed. This area also has residential moose, but I’ve only ever seen them on the North side of the road, near South Lone Pine Creek.
Seasonal Conditions:
Spring: Snow drifts & ice possible; Muddy conditions common.
Summer: Muddy conditions possible; Runoff in low-lying areas; Wildflowers abundant; Afternoon thunderstorms likely. Sandals or an extra pair of shoes and socks in the car (for after your hike) are recommended.
Fall: Aspen groves offer a spectacular display of fall colors, creating a truly picturesque hiking experience. During hunting season (check local regulations for specific dates), wearing bright orange clothing is strongly recommended for safety. Keep dogs leashed and under control at all times, both for their safety and as a courtesy to other trail users, including hunters.
Winter: Deep snow drifts in areas. Snowshoes and poles are recommended.
Accessibility and Suitability:
Accessibility: This trail is both kid- and dog-friendly (they can be off leash as long as they have great recall). Although you could probably get away with it, this trail isn’t what I’d call stroller-friendly.
Trail Traffic: Lady Moon and Molly Moon are popular trails in this area, especially during peak seasons. Expect to encounter other hikers, many with dogs. The Powerline Trail section is typically less traveled. During hunting season (check local regulations), be aware that you may cross paths with hunters. As aforementioned, it’s always a good idea to be visible during this season of the year.
Planning Your Trip:
Trailhead: Lady Moon Trailhead
Parking: Large dirt parking lot with approximately 20 spots. Additional parking for horse trailers is available in an adjacent lot. If both lots are full, overflow parking can be found across the road at the Mount Margaret Parking Lot.
Facilities/Amenities: Bathrooms are available at the trailhead. No benches are located along the trail.
Cost: Free (no entrance or parking fees)
Important Considerations:
Mud: The first 0.3 miles of the trail can be extremely muddy, wet, and slippery in the spring.
Stream Crossings: Be prepared for stream crossings. One stream is year-round, and another is seasonal (present primarily in spring).
Stay on Trail: Stay on the designated trail to avoid trail widening. Walk through the water runoff and/or mud, instead of to the side of it (hence my shoe recommendation!).
Weather: This trail is extremely exposed to the elements. Bring appropriate protection for the season you are hiking in, including sun protection, layers, and wind/rain protection as needed.
Navigation: While the trail is generally easy to follow, it's always a good idea to have a map or GPS, especially if you're unfamiliar with the area.