Finding Peace in the Mountains: A Winter Journey to The Great Stupa of Dharmakaya at Drala Mountain Center in Red Feather Lakes
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“The mountains are calling, and I must go.”
Usually, when we talk about Red Feather Lakes—The Tiny Mountain Town Full of Big Mountain Adventure in winter—we’re talking about the thrill of snow-tubing or the rush of a wind-swept hike. But sometimes, the biggest adventures happen on the inside.
Just a short scenic drive from the heart of the village lies one of Colorado’s most breathtaking hidden gems: The Great Stupa of Dharmakaya at Drala Mountain Center.
While stunning in the summer wildflowers, there is a special, hushed magic to visiting in the winter. We took a trip up there early last year, and the experience was nothing short of a true mountain sanctuary for the soul.
A Golden Beacon in the Red Feather Lakes, Colorado
Approaching the Stupa in winter is an experience in contrast. Imagine trudging through the crisp, fresh powder, the silence of the forest broken only by the crunch of your boots and the wind whispering secrets through the ancient pines.
Then, the trees part, and there it is: a gleaming white monument rising 108 feet into the clear, azure sky.
As you can see from our recent photos, the snow dusts the intricate gold and red details of the exterior, making the colors pop against the stark white landscape. It stands as a powerful symbol of peace, commanding the valley while resting gently within it. While the site is a significant monument to Buddhism in the West, its beauty speaks a universal language of tranquility.
Step Inside the Buddhist Sanctuary: The Great Stupa of Dharmakaya
If the outside is majestic, the inside is an embrace. Stepping through the doors, you leave the biting mountain air behind for a space of warm, vibrant stillness.
The first thing that strikes you is the color. The interior is a kaleidoscope of deep forest greens, rich crimsons, and brilliant golds. Your eyes are immediately drawn to the golden statue of the Buddha, sitting serene and welcoming at the center.
Take a moment to look at the details—the intricate mandalas painted on the ceiling, the delicate offerings of dried flowers in the alcoves, and the rows of soft meditation cushions on the polished stone floor. It is a place that invites you to sit, breathe, and simply be. Even if you aren’t attending a full yoga retreat or weekend workshop, the artistry alone is worth the trip.
Tips for Your Winter Visit
Ready to Escape the Ordinary? Here is how to make the most of your visit to this wellness retreat destination this season:
- Check the Roads: Winter conditions in the Rockies can change in a heartbeat. The road to Drala Mountain Center is maintained, but 4WD or AWD is highly recommended during snowy months.
- Dress in Layers (and wear easy-to-remove shoes!): The walk up from the parking lot can be chilly, but it is warm inside. Please make sure to take your shoes off before entering and place them into the cubbies outside the entrance to help preserve the pristine floors.
- Respect the Silence: This is a place of meditation for many. Keep voices low and cell phones silent.
- Check Hours: Visitor hours can vary by season, so check their website before you head out.
Come Discover Peace, Tranquility and Food for the Soul In this Sacred Buddhist Sanctuary in Red Feather Lakes, Colorado
Whether you are seeking spiritual solace or just a moment of quiet beauty amidst the rugged peaks, The Great Stupa offers a unique way to experience our mountain home.
So come on up. The kettle is on, the views are waiting, and the peace is real. It’s just another reason why Red Feather Lakes is the place where wildness—and serenity—is a necessity.
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