Fern Lake Trailhead: Gateway to Rocky Mountain Serenity
Hike to a serene alpine lake through diverse landscapes in Rocky Mountain National Park near Estes Park, Colorado.
The Fern Lake Trailhead, nestled in Rocky Mountain National Park near Estes Park, Colorado, provides access to a moderately challenging 7.6-mile hike leading to the stunning Fern Lake. The trail winds through diverse landscapes, including the Big Thompson River, Arch Rocks, and Fern Falls, before culminating at the serene subalpine lake surrounded by towering peaks.
A brief summary to Fern Lake Trailhead
- Estes Park, Colorado, 80517, US
- Visit website
- Monday 12 am-12 am
- Tuesday 12 am-12 am
- Wednesday 12 am-12 am
- Thursday 12 am-12 am
- Friday 12 am-12 am
- Saturday 12 am-12 am
- Sunday 12 am-12 am
Local tips
- Arrive early, especially during peak season (summer and fall), as parking at the trailhead is limited.
- Consider taking the free park shuttle from the Estes Park Visitor Center or the Bear Lake Park & Ride to avoid parking hassles.
- Bring plenty of water and snacks, as the hike is moderately strenuous and takes approximately 4-5 hours to complete.
- Wear sturdy hiking shoes, as the trail is rugged and uneven in places.
Getting There
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Driving
From Estes Park, drive west on Highway 36 to Bear Lake Road (approximately 1.3 miles). Turn left onto Bear Lake Road and continue for 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. Park entrance fees apply: A daily pass is $30 per vehicle, or a seven-day pass is $35. An annual park pass is $80. Parking at the trailhead is limited, especially during peak season. Consider parking at the Fern Lake Bus Stop parking area and walking the additional 0.8 miles to the trailhead.
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Public Transport
From the Estes Park Visitor Center, take the Hiker Shuttle to the Bear Lake Park & Ride. From there, transfer to the Moraine Park Shuttle and get off at the Fern Lake Bus Stop. Walk the additional 0.8 miles along the dirt road to the Fern Lake Trailhead. The Hiker Shuttle requires a reservation, which can be made on Recreation.gov. The Moraine Park Shuttle is free, but a timed-entry reservation that includes the Bear Lake Road Corridor is required to access the Park & Ride. Shuttle reservations are $2.
Discover more about Fern Lake Trailhead
Iconic landmarks you can’t miss
Aspen Winds on Fall River
7.0 km
Discover tranquility at Aspen Winds on Fall River, a perfect lodge for nature lovers and adventure seekers in Estes Park, Colorado.
The Wapiti Colorado Pub
7.8 km
Discover the flavors of Colorado at The Wapiti Colorado Pub in Estes Park, where local craft beers and delicious comfort food await.
Forest Canyon Overlook
8.3 km
Discover the breathtaking views and serene beauty at Forest Canyon Overlook in Rocky Mountain National Park, a must-visit for every nature lover.
Tour Estes Park
8.4 km
Explore the stunning natural beauty, outdoor adventures, and charming culture of Estes Park, your gateway to the Rocky Mountains.
Red Rose Rock Shop
8.8 km
Explore the Red Rose Rock Shop in Estes Park – a gem of natural wonders showcasing exquisite rocks, minerals, and unique souvenirs.
Mrs. Walsh's Garden
9.0 km
Discover the tranquil beauty of Mrs. Walsh's Garden in Estes Park, a serene retreat filled with vibrant flora and enchanting sculptures.
Performance Park
9.0 km
Discover the stunning Performance Park in Estes Park, Colorado - where breathtaking nature meets captivating performances in an enchanting amphitheater.
Estes Park Brewery
9.1 km
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Open Air Adventure Park
9.1 km
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Fun City
9.2 km
Discover endless fun for the whole family at Fun City, Estes Park's ultimate amusement park, featuring go-karts, miniature golf, and more!
The Water Wheel
9.2 km
Discover the enchanting Water Wheel in Estes Park, a serene landmark that beautifully combines nature, history, and family fun.
Penelope's Old Time Burgers
9.2 km
Enjoy mouthwatering burgers and a nostalgic atmosphere at Penelope's Old Time Burgers in Estes Park, the perfect stop for travelers seeking a hearty meal.
THE BARREL
9.3 km
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The Taffy Shop
9.3 km
Experience the rich history and sweet flavors at The Taffy Shop, a must-visit candy store in Estes Park, Colorado, perfect for tourists and families.
Estes Park Distilling Co.
9.4 km
Experience the essence of Colorado at Estes Park Distilling Co., where handcrafted spirits meet breathtaking mountain views.
Unmissable attractions to see
Upper Beaver Meadows Trailhead
2.5 km
Discover easy hiking, stunning views, and abundant wildlife at Upper Beaver Meadows Trailhead in Rocky Mountain National Park, near Estes Park.
Hollowell Park
2.6 km
Explore the natural beauty of Hollowell Park in Rocky Mountain National Park, a serene hiking area perfect for nature lovers and outdoor enthusiasts.
Moraine Park
2.8 km
Explore Moraine Park in Estes Park, Colorado – a breathtaking destination for nature lovers and outdoor enthusiasts, offering stunning views, diverse wildlife, and serene landscapes.
Many Parks Curve Overlook
3.7 km
Explore the stunning Many Parks Curve Overlook in Rocky Mountain National Park for breathtaking views and unforgettable natural beauty.
Moraine Park Amphitheater
4.0 km
Discover Moraine Park Amphitheater, a stunning natural venue in Estes Park, perfect for performances and connecting with nature's beauty.
Deer Mountain Trailhead
4.0 km
Hike Deer Mountain for panoramic views of Longs Peak and the Continental Divide in Rocky Mountain National Park. A moderate trek with rewarding vistas.
Moraine Park Discovery Center
4.0 km
Explore the Moraine Park Discovery Center: Your gateway to the natural beauty and wonders of Rocky Mountain National Park.
Fern Lake
4.4 km
Hike through stunning scenery to a pristine alpine lake in Rocky Mountain National Park, with waterfalls and panoramic mountain views.
Sprague Lake
4.5 km
Enjoy an easy, scenic hike around Sprague Lake in Rocky Mountain National Park, with stunning mountain views and accessible trails.
Little Horseshoe Park
4.6 km
Discover a serene glacial valley in Rocky Mountain National Park, perfect for hiking, wildlife viewing, and enjoying panoramic mountain vistas.
Rocky Mountain National Park
4.6 km
Experience the breathtaking beauty of Rocky Mountain National Park, a premier destination for nature lovers and adventure seekers in Colorado.
Bear Lake Trail
4.7 km
Discover breathtaking alpine scenery on the accessible Bear Lake Trail, a must-see destination in Rocky Mountain National Park.
Eagle Cliff Mountain
4.7 km
Hike Eagle Cliff Mountain for breathtaking views of Estes Park and the majestic Rocky Mountain National Park.
Deer Mountain
4.8 km
Explore the breathtaking views and serene landscapes of Deer Mountain, a must-visit peak in the heart of Colorado's Rocky Mountains.
Bear Lake Trailhead
4.9 km
Discover the breathtaking beauty of Bear Lake Trailhead in Rocky Mountain National Park, an outdoor haven for hiking and nature enthusiasts alike.
Essential places to dine
Trailhead Restaurant
6.4 km
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The Rock Inn Mountain Tavern
6.6 km
Experience the best of American cuisine and craft brews at The Rock Inn Mountain Tavern in Estes Park – your cozy retreat after exploring nature's wonders.
Bird & Jim
7.4 km
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Boss Burgers and Gyros
7.7 km
Indulge in mouth-watering burgers and authentic gyros at Boss Burgers and Gyros – your go-to spot in scenic Estes Park.
Smokin' Dave's BBQ - ESTES PARK
7.9 km
Experience mouthwatering barbecue at Smokin' Dave's BBQ in Estes Park - where smoky flavors meet stunning mountain views.
Coffee on the Rocks
8.8 km
Discover Coffee on the Rocks in Estes Park – where quality brews meet breathtaking mountain views for an unforgettable experience.
Rivers Edge BBQ
8.9 km
Experience mouthwatering barbecue at Rivers Edge BBQ in Estes Park – where flavor meets nature's beauty.
Twin Owls Steakhouse
9.0 km
Experience exceptional steaks and American cuisine at Twin Owls Steakhouse in Estes Park – where quality meets stunning mountain views.
Big Horn Restaurant
9.0 km
Experience family-friendly dining at Big Horn Restaurant in Estes Park with delicious American cuisine perfect for all tastes and budgets.
Twisted Griffin Irish Pub & Restaurant
9.2 km
Discover authentic Irish cuisine and warm hospitality at Twisted Griffin in Estes Park—your perfect dining destination in Colorado.
Sweet Basilico Cafe
9.3 km
Discover authentic Italian flavors amidst stunning mountain views at Sweet Basilico Cafe in Estes Park.
The View Restaurant
9.3 km
Discover exquisite American cuisine amidst breathtaking mountain views at The View Restaurant in Estes Park.
The Wild Rose Restaurant
9.3 km
Experience the best of American and European cuisine at The Wild Rose Restaurant in Estes Park—where unique flavors meet stunning mountain views.
The Grubsteak Restaurant
9.3 km
Discover The Grubsteak Restaurant in Estes Park – where exceptional steaks meet warm hospitality amidst stunning mountain views.
Bob & Tonys Pizza
9.4 km
Experience authentic pizza crafted with love at Bob & Tony's Pizza in Estes Park – your perfect dining stop amidst Colorado's natural beauty.
Markets, malls and hidden boutiques
Rocky Mountain Gateway
6.4 km
Explore the treasures of Rocky Mountain Gateway, your one-stop shop for unique gifts, camping gear, and authentic Native American crafts in Estes Park, Colorado.
The Village Store of Estes Park
7.5 km
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The Mad Moose
7.5 km
Explore The Mad Moose for top outdoor gear and unique souvenirs in Estes Park, the gateway to Rocky Mountain National Park.
Wild Horse Gift Shop
8.0 km
Explore the Wild Horse Gift Shop for unique souvenirs and local crafts in the heart of Estes Park, Colorado.
The Trading Post of the Rockies
8.9 km
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Lizzie's Boutique
8.9 km
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Omnibus
9.2 km
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Country West City East Gifts
9.3 km
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Cabin Fever of Estes Park Co
9.3 km
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Over The Edge
9.3 km
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Favorite Things
9.3 km
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The Whispering Wood
9.3 km
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Rocky Mountain Souvenirs
9.3 km
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Estes Park Souvenirs
9.3 km
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Mt Everest Gift House
9.3 km
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Essential bars & hidden hideouts
Full Throttle Distillery & Grill Estes Park
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Rock Cut Brewing Company
9.4 km
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Lonigans Saloon Nightclub & Grill, An Irish Pub
9.4 km
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Wheel Bar
9.5 km
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The Whiskey Bar At The Cascades Restaurant
10.0 km
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217 Wine Bar
10.0 km
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Avant Garde Aleworks
10.6 km
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The Bull Pin - Elevated Entertainment
10.8 km
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Lumpy Ridge Brewing Co.
10.8 km
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Pits & Stems
46.1 km
Discover the vibrant atmosphere of Pits & Stems, Boulder’s premier cocktail bar known for its innovative drinks and welcoming ambiance.
Press Play Bar LP
47.8 km
Discover the joy of retro gaming and craft beverages at Press Play Bar in Boulder, where every visit promises fun and unforgettable memories.
License No. 1
47.8 km
Discover the heart of Boulder's nightlife at License No. 1, where live music meets delicious dining in a vibrant atmosphere.
The Corner Bar
47.8 km
Experience the vibrant atmosphere and delicious grilled dishes at The Corner Bar in Boulder, a perfect stop for food lovers and socializers alike.
West End Tavern
47.8 km
Discover the West End Tavern in Boulder, Colorado – a lively bar with stunning rooftop views, delicious food, and a vibrant atmosphere perfect for unwinding.
The Bitter Bar
47.8 km
Discover The Bitter Bar, Boulder’s premier cocktail destination, offering unique drinks and a vibrant ambiance for a perfect night out.
