Fern Lake Trail

Estes Park, CO

Content provider

Fern Lake Trail

The trail to Fern Lake features the park’s “best of” attractions for hikes with kids: monster-size rocks to wander through, a log bridge spanning a deep pool in the river, a mist-spewing waterfall, and a lake promising fishing fun. Plan to enjoy this popular trail early in the day before crowds or rain change its tone. The Pool and Fern Falls serve as turnaround points for varying energy and endurance levels. The hike to Fern Lake is an ideal overnight backpack with day-hike options to nearby alpine lakes.

See all Hiking in Colorado

Driving Directions

Note: driving directions are approximate.

We cannot find this location: please try again.

Directions to: Fern Lake Trail

print directions

Trail Statistics & Information

ActivityHiking
Nearby CityEstes Park
Length7.8 mi
Skill LevelEasy to challenging
DurationDay hike or backpack
SeasonBest May through October
Trailhead Elevation8,155 ft
Top Elevation9,540 ft
screen shot of Trails.com

REI MEMBERS: SAVE $20 on a Trails.com Subscription

Subscribe to Trails.com for just $29.95 a year and gain full access to over 49,000 professional trail guides, high-res USGS topo maps & much more!

Content provided by Trails.com

How are we doing? Give us feedback on this page.

  • Join REI today!
  • REI Membership
  • REI member benefits include an annual refund (typically 10% on eligible purchases).
  • Join REI today!
  • Sign up for REI Gearmail®
  • and get 15% off selected items!
  • Store Locator
  • Locate an REI store near you.
  • Find a Store

Find REI on: FacebookTwitterYouTubeFlickr