Fern Lake

Overview

Fern Lake sits just under 10,000 feet and delivers that quintessential RMNP progression: mellow riverside walking, a photogenic waterfall, and a serene subalpine lake ringed by rugged granite. From the north side of the lake you’ll spot Notchtop Mountain and the Little Matterhorn framing the basin.

What You’ll See on the Way

• Big Thompson River: The trail traces the river from Moraine Park, offering a calming start.
• The Pool (~1.7–1.8 miles one-way): A scenic constriction where the river churns beneath a bridge—an easy turn‑around for a short day.
• Fern Falls (~3+ miles one-way): A 60‑foot waterfall on Fern Creek. Beyond here the trail steepens and gets rockier.
• Fern Lake (~3.7–3.9 miles one-way): An oval, glacially carved lake with downed logs for sitting and soaking in the views.

Wildlife sightings are common along this corridor, especially near dawn and dusk. Give animals plenty of space and never feed them.

Why It’s Special

This basin is a clean readout of the park’s geologic story—water, frost, and ice have been shaping these valleys for millennia. Ancient glaciers overdeepened cirques and left behind the lake basins you’re hiking to today.

Trail Conditions and Difficulty

Expect a generally moderate start that becomes a sustained, rocky climb after The Pool, especially from Fern Falls to the lake. Parts of the route pass through burn scar, which opens up views but also cuts shade; start early and carry extra water.

Logistics

• Distance/elevation: About 7.5 miles round‑trip with roughly 1,476 feet of gain.
• Parking: The Fern Lake Trailhead lot is very small; overflow parking sits about a half mile down the dirt road. In summer there’s a shuttle stop near the overflow area. The trailhead area is not plowed in winter.
• Facilities: Don’t expect amenities on the hike. A simple backcountry privy is located near the ranger cabin at the lake. Pack out all trash.
• Seasonal access: From late May through October, a timed‑entry permit is required between mid‑morning and early afternoon; make sure you have the correct permit for your route and save a screenshot in case service drops. The park is open 24/7 year‑round, but roads and lots can have seasonal closures.
• Winter: This becomes a true winter outing—snowshoes or traction (and the know‑how to assess conditions) may be needed.

Camping and Leave No Trace

There’s a designated Fern Lake backcountry campsite in the area. No campfires; use a portable stove only. Treat all water from inlets/outlets and practice strict Leave No Trace.

Optional Add‑Ons

Feel strong at the lake? Continue about a mile and 500 vertical feet to Odessa Lake for a wilder, cliff‑rimmed setting. Ambitious hikers sometimes link Bear Lake to Fern Lake one‑way using the shuttle system.

Best Time to Visit

• Early morning is best for easier parking, cooler temps, calmer winds, and wildlife activity.
• Weekdays see lighter traffic than weekends.
• Photography: Soft morning or late‑day light flatters the lake and surrounding peaks; midday sun can be harsh, especially in burn areas.
• Summer and early fall usually offer the firmest footing; expect snow/ice in shoulder seasons and winter.