Cub Lake–The Pool Loop

This is a 6.1-mile loop linking The Pool and Cub Lake in Moraine Park. Starting at Fern Lake Trailhead, follow Fern Lake Trail 1.7 miles to The Pool, turn onto Cub Lake Trail, pass Cub Lake and continue to its namesake trailhead, then take Moraine Park Road back to the start. Allow about three to four hours. It is a moderate walk at more than 8,000 feet, with more climbing than the mileage alone suggests. The road return is included in the distance.

Choose this circuit if you want both the creek gorge and the lake in one outing. For a shorter visit, The Pool is a 3.4-mile out-and-back from Fern Lake Trailhead; Cub Lake is a separate 4.6-mile out-and-back from Cub Lake Trailhead.

The first leg climbs gradually through the forest beside the Fern Lake Trail corridor. The Pool is a narrow, rocky creek channel where water squeezes between rock walls. From there, follow the signs for Cub Lake. The route moves through trees and then climbs until the view opens down toward the lake. Keep following Cub Lake Trail to the Cub Lake Trailhead rather than turning onto the longer Fern Lake route.

Cub Lake is a shallow, lily-covered wetland rather than a high alpine basin. Fire-scarred trees frame parts of the shore, and the view down from the trail shows the lake tucked among forested slopes. On a calm day, frame the lily pads with the mountains reflected across the water. Elk and moose are reported in the Moraine Park meadows, but sightings are never assured; give wildlife room.

Start at the Fern Lake Trailhead lot off Moraine Park Road. Summer parking can be limited. The Moraine Park shuttle route serves a Fern Lake stop in the area, so check the current service if you plan to use it. The return along the road is part of the circuit, not an optional shortcut. Dogs are prohibited on all Rocky Mountain National Park trails.