Cub Lake

Overview

Cub Lake is a mellow-to-moderate hike payoff: a lily-pad–dotted pond ringed by burn-scarred hillsides that are slowly greening up again. The approach traces the edge of wide-open Moraine Park—prime elk country—before a steadier climb in the last mile delivers you to the lake. If you want wildlife and meadow-and-mountain scenery without the Bear Lake frenzy, this is a smart pick.

Route Options

• Out-and-back: About 2.3 miles one-way (4.6 round-trip) from the Cub Lake Trailhead with roughly 540 feet of gain. Expect an easy start across the Big Thompson River and along Moraine Park, then a more sustained, rocky climb to the lake.
• Loop: Link Cub Lake to The Pool and down the Fern Lake Trail, then close the loop with a short walk on Fern Lake Road. Plan on roughly 5.5–6 miles and 600–750 feet of gain. You can start from either Cub Lake or Fern Lake trailhead—both directions work.

What You'll See

• Meadows, aspen and ferny forests, and broad mountain views along Moraine Park.
• Cub Lake’s signature lily pads—often with moose browsing the shallows—and regular elk sightings in the valley below. Deer and other critters show up, too. Give all wildlife lots of space.
• Fire recovery landscapes: noticeable snags and open, sunny stretches from the 2012 Fern Lake Fire and 2020 East Troublesome Fire.

Trail Feel & Difficulty

Overall moderate. The early miles are gentle; the final approach to the lake is steeper with rocky footing and little shade. Start early and bring more water than you think you need.

Logistics

• Trailhead: About 1.3 miles down Fern Lake Road. Parking is limited and fills quickly. In summer, the park shuttle serves this area from Park & Ride—use it if you’re not arriving at dawn.
• Facilities: Don’t count on restrooms at the trailhead; use facilities at visitor centers, campgrounds, or Park & Ride beforehand.
• Expect few or no mile markers; a map or downloaded route helps, especially if you’re doing the loop and road walk between trailheads.

Seasonal Notes

• Summer: Very popular—go early for cooler temps and fewer people, and pack sun protection for exposed burn areas.
• Fall: Fantastic for elk activity and foliage; dawn/dusk are best for bugling in Moraine Park.
• Winter: Often doable with traction or snowshoes depending on conditions; check weather and avalanche info and be ready for ice on steeper bits near the lake.

Safety & Conditions

• Ticks are present: stay center-trail, wear long sleeves/pants, use repellent, and do frequent checks. Mosquitoes can bite near water in warmer months.
• Trekking poles help on the steeper, rocky sections and in winter.

Backpacking & Add-ons

Backcountry sites like Cub Creek and Arch Rocks sit along the loop and require advance reservations. For a longer day, expand the loop toward Fern Lake and riverside sections of the Big Thompson.

Best Time to Visit

• Early morning any day of the week for cooler temps, better wildlife chances, and easier parking (or shuttle seats).
• For photography, morning light across Moraine Park and the lily pads is most flattering; afternoons can be harsh on the exposed, post-fire slopes.