Odessa Lake via Fern Lake Trail

The Odessa Lake via Fern Lake Trail is a charming excursion, and we are big fans. This trail will guide you up a river valley to cascading falls and up to a mountain cirque laden with shimmering alpine lakes. The altitude of the area warrants afternoon storms, so make sure to check the forecast prior to your adventure. It is also a great idea to wear layers as insurance against inclement weather at the exposed lakes. Note that visitors are required to purchase a Rocky Mountain National Park pass to access the trails.

Embark on your adventure from the Fern Lake Trailhead. From here, the Fern Lake Trail follows a path alongside the banks of the Big Thompson River. Hike alongside the serene river up to The Pool, which is a set of impressive cascades that form a whirling pool. At this point, the path will curve south and guide you up a set of switchbacks past Fern Falls and up to Fern Lake. From here, enjoy expansive mountainous views. Continue hiking the Fern Lake Trail a bit further to Odessa Lake. Revel in the beautiful scenery of the Colorado wilderness and the looming snow-capped peaks, including the striking up close and personal sights of the Little Matterhorn.

Explore the alpine lake’s shores and when you are ready to return to the trailhead, simply retrace your footing along the path.