Fern Lake

Fern Lake is a high alpine gem in Rocky Mountain National Park, nestled beneath the imposing rock faces of Notchtop Mountain and Little Matterhorn in Larimer County, Colorado. Accessible via multiple trail routes, including a popular point-to-point hike from Bear Lake through Odessa Lake, Fern Lake draws hikers, backpackers, and anglers into one of the park's most dramatic mountain basins. The lake sits at a high elevation surrounded by rugged peaks and unique rock formations that give the area a distinctly wild character.

The most popular approach to Fern Lake follows the Fern Lake Trail from the Fern Lake Trailhead near Moraine Park, a roughly 3.8-mile hike with moderate elevation gain. The longer but more scenic route starts at Bear Lake and connects through Lake Helene and Odessa Lake, covering about 10 miles with around 1,500 feet of total elevation gain. This through-hike passes waterfalls, crosses alpine meadows, and visits multiple lakes, making it one of the premier day hikes in all of Rocky Mountain National Park. Fern Falls, located below the lake, is a worthwhile stop in either direction.

Backcountry camping at Fern Lake is a highlight for overnight visitors. Designated campsites along the lakeshore put you in the heart of the high country, with evening alpenglow on Notchtop providing a backdrop that few front-country campgrounds can match. Backcountry permits are required and should be reserved well in advance during summer months, as these sites are among the most sought-after in the park.

Fishing at Fern Lake offers a backcountry experience for anglers willing to hike in. The lake holds trout, and the remote setting means far less fishing pressure than drive-up waters along the front range. A valid Colorado fishing license and compliance with park-specific regulations are required.

The East Troublesome Fire in October 2020 significantly impacted the forests surrounding Fern Lake and nearby Spruce Lake. Much of the dense spruce and fir canopy burned, dramatically altering the landscape. Visitors familiar with the pre-fire scenery will notice a stark difference, though the recovery process is underway with new growth emerging across the burn zone. The fire also raised concerns about the endangered Boreal Toad population at Spruce Lake.

Seasonal access to Fern Lake is best from late June through early October, when trails are typically clear of snow. Summer weekends bring heavy trail traffic, so early starts or weekday visits offer a quieter experience. The area sees significant snow from November through May, and winter travel requires snowshoes or skis. Wildlife sightings along the trail include pikas, wild turkeys, and various waterfowl at the lake.