Grace Falls Viewpoint Trail

Grace Falls Viewpoint Trail is a 12-mile out-and-back from Fern Lake Trailhead, following the maintained route past The Pool, Fern Falls, Fern Lake, and Odessa Lake before continuing about 0.8 mile toward Lake Helene. Allow 7 to 8 hours; the climb is roughly 2,355 feet and starts at 8,155 feet. This is a full day, not a quick waterfall walk. If the mileage is too much, Odessa Lake makes a good turnaround at about 9.8 miles round trip.

The trail climbs through spruce and fir forest, crosses Spruce Creek on a wooden bridge, and passes Fern Falls on the way to Fern Lake. Odessa Lake sits near treeline, with Notchtop and Flattop rising behind it. From there, keep on the maintained trail as it climbs toward Lake Helene; the falls viewpoint is an informal spot along this stretch.

Grace Falls drops nearly 100 feet from the Notchtop area into Fern Creek. Its flow depends on snowmelt from Ptarmigan Glacier, so late spring and early summer are usually the best time to see it running strongly; it can freeze in winter. The exact viewing spot isn't signed, and visibility can vary. The faint, difficult scramble toward the falls' base is a different route, with avalanche exposure. Stay on the maintained trail for this hike.

The Fern Lake Trailhead lot is small. Follow Bear Lake Road to Moraine Park Campground Road and the signed trailhead spur; avoid leaving a vehicle along Fern Lake Road. The park shuttle and Park & Ride can help when service is running. Snow and ice can linger above Fern Lake into mid-summer, and the high elevation makes this a strenuous day. Pets aren't allowed on park trails.