Hike to Fern Falls in Rocky Mountain National Park | Waterfall Hike

Rocky Mountain Day Hikes

Fern Falls - 2.7 miles

Trail Type: Waterfall Hike
Trailhead: Fern Lake
Trailhead Elevation: 8,155'
Destination Elevation: 8,824'
Total Elevation Gain: 669'
Total Roundtrip Miles: 5.4

Fern Falls

Trail Description:
This trail has experienced significant fire damage from the 2020 East Troublesome Fire.
This hike is an extension of the trail to The Pool on the way to Fern Lake in Rocky Mountain National Park. The 1.7 miles to The Pool is a relatively easy hike with not too much elevation gain. After The Pool, you can notice the affects of the 2012 "Fern Lake Fire" at the footbridge that crosses a small stream. The trail then gains in elevation and switch backs through montane forest before reaching the Falls.s.

How to Get There:
Take the Bear Lake Road from US 36 for 1 mile to the Moraine Park Campground road and follow signs to the Fern Lake trailhead. Parking during the summer season is very limited. It's best to utilize the Hiker Shuttle from the Estes Park Visitor Center and the Park Shuttle Buses.