Fern Lake
Fern Lake: A Rocky Mountain National Park Gem
Fern Lake: A Subalpine Jewel
Hike to a pristine subalpine lake in Rocky Mountain National Park, with stunning views and a trail rich in history.
Nestled in Rocky Mountain National Park, Fern Lake is a stunning subalpine lake accessible via a scenic 3.8-mile trail. The moderate hike takes you past the Big Thompson River, through forests and areas recovering from the 2020 East Troublesome Fire, and alongside the cascading Fern Falls. The lake itself offers breathtaking views of Notchtop Mountain, Little Matterhorn, and Gabletop Mountain.
Plan your visit
A brief summary to Fern Lake
Opening times, essentials, and a few local tips gathered into one calmer, easier-to-scan planning section.
Plan your visit
Colorado, US
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Getting There
Public Transport
To reach Fern Lake using public transportation, start at the Estes Park Visitor Center. From there, take the free Hiker Shuttle to the Park & Ride transit hub located on Bear Lake Road. At the Park & Ride, transfer to the Moraine Park Shuttle, which runs every 30 minutes. This shuttle will take you to the Fern Lake Bus Stop. From the bus stop, it's a short walk to the Fern Lake Trailhead, adding approximately 0.8 miles to your hike. Remember to reserve Hiker Shuttle tickets in advance at recreation.gov for $2. A park pass is required but a timed-entry reservation is not when utilizing the Hiker Shuttle. The shuttle is free to ride.
Driving
To drive to Fern Lake, start from Estes Park and follow Highway 36 west towards Rocky Mountain National Park. After approximately 1.3 miles, turn left onto Bear Lake Road and continue for another 1.3 miles. Then, turn right onto Moraine Park Campground Road. After a short distance, turn left at the sign indicating Riding Stable and Trailheads. Follow this road along the edge of Moraine Park to the Fern Lake Trailhead at the end of the road. Parking at the trailhead is limited, and the unpaved lot fills up quickly. If the lot is full, overflow parking is available along the dirt road leading to the trailhead. During the summer and fall, a timed entry permit is required to access the Bear Lake Road corridor between 5 a.m. and 6 p.m., in addition to a park pass. The timed entry permit costs $2 and can be booked through recreation.gov.
Local tips
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Arrive early, especially during peak season, as parking at the Fern Lake Trailhead is limited.
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Consider taking the free Hiker Shuttle from the Estes Park Visitor Center to avoid parking hassles.
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Check the National Park Service website for timed entry permit requirements and trail closures before your visit.
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Bring plenty of water and snacks, as the hike to Fern Lake is moderately challenging.
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Be prepared for varying weather conditions, including sun exposure and potential snow or ice, depending on the season.
Discover more about Fern Lake
Fern Lake, a serene subalpine lake in Rocky Mountain National Park, Colorado, beckons hikers with its stunning natural beauty and rich history. The 3.8-mile Fern Lake Trail, a popular route listed on the National Register of Historic Places, offers a moderate challenge with an elevation gain of approximately 1,400 feet.
The journey begins in the Moraine Park area, following the Big Thompson River through a diverse forest landscape. Along the way, you'll encounter "The Pool," a wide spot in the river that once hosted a small lodge predating the park's establishment. The trail then ascends, passing through areas affected by the 2020 East Troublesome Fire and offering views of Fern Falls, a 60-foot waterfall cascading into Fern Creek.
Fern Lake itself sits below the treeline, providing stunning views of surrounding peaks like Notchtop Mountain, Little Matterhorn, and Gabletop Mountain. The area has a rich history, once serving as a popular winter destination with a lodge in the 1920s. The Civilian Conservation Corps rebuilt the trail in the 1930s, leaving a lasting impact on its current form.
While the Fern Lake Lodge and a patrol cabin near the lake are no longer standing, the trail remains a testament to the area's enduring appeal. Today, visitors can enjoy hiking, fishing, and the tranquility of this subalpine gem. Be sure to check for current conditions, including timed entry permit requirements and potential trail closures.
A brief summary to Fern Lake
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