Loomis Lake

Overview

A hard, rewarding outing to a secluded high lake with real backcountry vibes. This is roughly 10.0 miles total, out and back, with about 2,300 feet of gain. Most hikers start at the Fern Lake Trailhead, passing Fern Falls and Spruce Lake before tackling the faint, unmaintained approach to Loomis Lake. Expect a quieter shoreline at about 10,040 feet, plus classic glacial scenery.

Route and what to expect

The maintained path to Spruce Lake is straightforward and scenic, highlighted by Fern Falls and another cascade above Spruce. Beyond Spruce, the character changes: the route to Loomis is not an official, maintained trail. The tread fragments, blowdowns slow progress, and you’ll negotiate a creek crossing near Primrose Pond—be ready to backtrack to find a safe ford and to pick up faint use paths or the occasional cairn. Navigation skills and offline maps are important here. Cell service is unreliable.

Difficulty and conditions

This hike earns its “hard” rating from the steady elevation gain and the cross-country segment past Spruce. Snow can linger into summer, and weather shifts fast—afternoon thunderstorms are common. Start early, carry extra layers, and bring trekking poles and waterproof footwear. Not recommended as a winter outing.

Highlights, wildlife, and fishing

You’ll get a greatest-hits sampler: thundering Fern Falls, a quieter cascade above Spruce, and a tucked-away cirque lake finish. Deer, elk, and moose are regularly reported—give wildlife space. Anglers take note: Loomis Lake is managed as catch-and-release with trout present. Portions of Spruce Lake’s east and southeast shoreline are closed year‑round to protect boreal toad habitat; know the current rules before you cast.

Geology spotlight

You’re walking through a landscape sculpted by repeated Pleistocene glaciations—broad U‑shaped valleys, cirques, and moraines tell the story. The bedrock is deep time stuff: ancient schist and gneiss intruded by granite, later uplifted during mountain‑building and then carved by ice, leaving the overdeepened basins that host lakes like Loomis.

Best time to hike

June through October is the reliable window, with trails typically opening up by late June though lingering snow and mud are possible. Mornings offer cooler temps, steadier footing on stream crossings, and better odds at afternoon‑storm avoidance. If you just want a high‑quality, fully maintained day with waterfalls and lakes, consider stopping at Spruce Lake or connecting from Bear Lake through Odessa and Fern for a maintained alternative.