Fern Falls

Fern Lake Trailhead past The Pool to Fern Falls

Derived: Day Hikes Near Denver lists Fern Falls at about 2.7 miles from Fern Lake Trailhead. Visit Estes Park says it is closer to five miles round trip. Walking from the Fern Lake bus stop adds 0.8 mile each way.

Mountain trail with steady climbing after The Pool. NPS says part of the trail is in an older burn area with little shade and standing dead trees. No pets on RMNP trails.

Where to start

Fern Lake Trailhead has limited parking; the Fern Lake bus stop lot is also very limited. Day Hikes Near Denver advises using the Park & Ride shuttle if the lot is full and not parking along Fern Lake Road.

Timing & water

Snow and ice are common in spring; traction devices recommended. Timed entry dates change each year.

Before you go

RMNP entrance pass required: $30 per private vehicle for one day or $35 for seven days. NPS lists Moraine Park inside the Bear Lake Road Corridor, which needed a Timed Entry + Bear Lake Road reservation from 5 a.m. to 6 p.m., May 22 to October 18, 2026.