Flattop Mountain to Fern Lake Hike

The Flattop Mountain to Fern Lake Hike is sure to please all its adventurers. This excursion demands stamina and preparation, so make sure you are acclimated to the area’s high altitude and pack lots of water! Don’t forget, this trail is one way, so be sure to arrange a pickup or leave a car at the Fern Lake Trailhead! Located within the Rocky Mountain National Park, visitors are required to purchase a park pass.

Embark on your adventure along the Flattop Mountain to Fern Lake Hike from the Bear Lake Trailhead. From here, track north along the Bear Lake Trail and at the first intersection, veer right onto the Bierstadt Trail. Hike up the ridge and at the next junction, turn left and you will be diverted onto the Flattop Mountain Trail. As you ascend the terrain, the path will intersect with Mill Creek before merging onto the Fern Lake Trail. Hike past the Two Rivers Lake and revel in the impressive vistas of the looming snow-dusted peaks. Track along the route through the mountain cirque, maintaining on the Fern Lake Trail. Eventually, the path will guide you along the shoreline of Odessa Lake before delivering you to Fern Lake.

From Fern Lake, the route will descend to Big Thompson Lake and The Pool. From here, descend the river valley path to the parking lot and trailhead, marking the end of your alpine adventure.