Length:  10 Miles
Trailhead(s): Bear Lake & Fern Lake Trailheads
Elevation Gain:  1,165′
Trail Type:  Point to Point:  Bear Lake Trailhead to Fern Lake Trailhead
Dogs:  Not Allowed
Difficulty:  Moderate
Permit Required? National Park Entry Fee or America The Beautiful Pass
Considerations: Early Season Lingering Snow; Wildlife; Exposure; Elevation
Season:  Late Spring to Early Fall

Overview

Nestled in the heart of Colorado, Rocky Mountain National Park is an adventurer’s paradise brimming with breathtaking landscapes and diverse wildlife. Among its myriad trails, hiking Bear Lake to Fern Lake stands out as an extraordinary journey through nature’s wonderland.

Although hiking from Bear Lake to Fern Lake can be done as an out & back, the hike I will describe makes use of Rocky Mountain National Park’s excellent shuttle service.

Using the shuttle service, you will not have to retrace your steps and will see an additional 3.7 miles of trail – while hiking the same distance as the out & back.  To us, that’s a deal and the one we chose!

Free Shuttle to the Bear Lake Trailhead

Hiking Bear Lake to Fern Lake begins at the Bear Lake Trailhead.  The trailhead is extremely popular, so snagging a parking space is a matter of luck.  It also requires scoring a Timed Entry+ permit to drive Bear Lake Road.

If you want to skip the hassle, either take the hiker shuttle or park at the Park & Ride Transit Hub to get to the shuttlebus.  We chose to leave our truck in Estes Park and ride the hiker shuttle.

The Hiker Shuttle departs from the Estes Park Visitor Center and takes you to the Park & Ride Transit Hub, where can make the connection to the Bear Lake Trailhead.  See “Additional Information” below for a link to get reservations for the free Hiker Shuttle.

Hiking Bear Lake to Fern Lake and Beyond

Bear Lake

Hiking Bear Lake to Fern Lake begins the adventure at the Bear Lake Trailhead located next to Bear Lake.  Situated at an elevation of 9,450 feet, Bear Lake is a breathtaking alpine gem surrounded by lush forests and stunning mountain views.

Before you begin your hike in earnest, take a moment here to appreciate the tranquil beauty of Bear Lake.  If you like, there is a trail around Bear Lake you can hike before heading to Fern Lake.

Hiking Bear Lake to Fern Lake and the Fern Lake Trailhead

To begin hiking from Bear Lake to Fern Lake, take the Bear Lake Bierstadt Trail to the junction with the Flattop Mountain Trail, go left, and continue straight when you reach the Fern Lake Trail.

Along the way you can take side trips to Marigold Pond and Two Rivers Lake or just head straight to the short Lake Helene Trail spur, a side trail to Lake Helene which I recommend you visit.

Lake Helene

Nestled among alpine meadows and wildflower-covered slopes, Lake Helene is a picturesque stop along the way to Fern Lake.  Take a moment to enjoy the tranquil ambiance and scenic vistas that this spot offers.

Tourmaline Gorge

Leaving Lake Helene, hike back to the Fern Lake Trail to continue hiking from Bear Lake to Fern Lake.  Here you will begin descending into the Tourmaline Gorge.  The hike into the Gorge is truly amazing with beautiful peaks and rocky, interesting trail.  As you journey down, you will be able to see Odessa Lake in the distance.

Odessa Lake

To get to Odessa Lake, take a left at the Odessa Lake Trail.  It is a short distance to the lake and well worth the side trip.

Odessa Lake is known for its crystal-clear waters and panoramic views. With “The Gable” ever present above the lake, the reflection of the surrounding peaks on the water’s surface is truly captivating.  Take a moment here and enjoy the scenery.

Fern Lake

To continue hiking from Bear Lake to Fern Lake, head back to the Fern Lake Trail and continue through the Tourmaline Gorge until you reach Fern Lake.

Fern Lake sits at an elevation of 9,530 feet. Surrounded by lush vegetation, this quite lake provides a peaceful retreat for weary hikers. Relax by the water’s edge, take some pictures of the beautiful scenery, and enjoy a well-deserved break.

Marguerite Falls

As you continue your route hiking Bear Lake to Fern Lake Trailhead, you will immediately see a short detour from the Fern Lake Trail leading to Marguerite Falls.  This picturesque waterfall is a serene and refreshing stop along the trail. Take a moment to appreciate the beauty of the falls and the surrounding lush vegetation before continuing your hike.

Marguerite Falls to the Fern Lake Trailhead

Leaving Marguerite Falls behind, the trail continues to descend towards the Fern Lake Trailhead. The path meanders through more dense forests, passes Fern Falls, and follows the course of the Big Thompson River. The soothing sounds of the river accompany you as you make your way to the trailhead.

Fern Lake Trailhead to the Shuttle

From the Fern Lake Trailhead, it is a short .6 mile walk on a dirt road to the Fern Lake Bus Stop where you can catch the shuttle back to your car.

Final Thoughts about Hiking Bear Lake to Fern Lake

Hiking Bear Lake to Fern Lake is an adventure that showcases the best of Rocky Mountain National Park.  From the serene beauty of Bear Lake to the tranquil waters of Fern Lake, the trails offer a diverse range of landscapes and unforgettable experiences. Whether you’re an avid hiker or a nature enthusiast, this journey promises to be a highlight of your outdoor adventures.  Enjoy and hike on!

Scroll down to learn about the GEAR WE USE and OTHER OUTVENTURES in this area.

Additional Information (Click below to follow links.)

• • Hiker Shuttle Tickets Link
  • National Park Service Information Link – Rocky Mountain National Park Timed Entry Permit System