Hike to Cub Lake

Cub Lake Trail in March 2026

NPS Photo

• Distance: 2.3 miles one-way (3.7 m)
• Elevation Gain: 540 feet (165 m)
• Type of Trail: In and Back. Cub Lake can be accessed as part of a loop hike. Follow a topographical map to see different options.

Beginning from the Cub Lake Trailhead, the trail to Cub Lake has gradual elevation gain. Enjoy scenic meadow and mountain views great for the whole family. From Cub Lake Trailhead it is 2.3 miles one-way to Cub Lake.

Safety Tips:

Be Prepared for Snow and Ice on the Trail

During the months of March and April, winter is transitioning to spring. Expect snow and ice on the trail to Cub Lake. At this time, snowshoes are not needed. 

Traction devices for your boots are recommended in areas where there is snow and ice on the trail to help give you more traction when hiking. Hiking poles can be helpful.

Ticks are out!

The best way to prevent tick borne illnesses is to not allow ticks to become embedded on you. Protect yourself from ticks by taking the following actions:

• When hiking, walk in the middle of trails away from tall grasses.
• Check yourself and your kids for ticks every few hours. Check your head, ankles, wrists and waistbands.
• Cover your skin by wearing long sleeves and long pants. Pull socks over the cuffs of your pants to prevent ticks from finding the skin around your ankles.
• Consider using insect repellent that contains DEET or permethrin, which can be effective in repelling ticks. Always follow product instructions.

Directions to Cub Lake Trailhead:

Cub Lake Trailhead is located 1.3 miles down Fern Lake Road, near the west end of Moraine Park. A limited number of parking spaces is available at the trailhead. This trailhead is also serviced by the Moraine Park Shuttle during the summer season. To access Moraine Park Shuttle, park your vehicle at Park & Ride on Bear Lake Road. 

From Cub Lake Trailhead, follow the Cub Lake Trail to scenic Cub Lake. After crossing the Big Thompson River at the beginning of the trail, the hike follows the western edge of Moraine Park, making it excellent for viewing wildlife.

This area is recovering from the Fern Lake Fire that occurred Fall 2012. The burn area is more apparent as you get closer to Cub Lake.

Details

Duration

3-5 Hours

On average, Cub Lake can be hiked in 3 to 4 hours.

Activity

Hiking

Pets Allowed

No

Pets are prohibited on ALL Rocky Mountain National Park trails, tundra, and meadows.

Activity Fee

No

Entrance fees may apply, see Fees & Passes information.

Location

Cub Lake Trailhead

Located along Fern Lake Road, not far from Moraine Park Campground and along the west end of Moraine Park meadow.

Reservations

Yes

From late May to mid-October, a timed entry reservation is required to enter all areas of Rocky Mountain National Park during certain times of the day. Depending on when you plan to start your hike, you might need a timed entry reservation.

Visit the RMNP Timed Entry page on Recreation.gov for details and to make a reservation. 

Season

Year Round

This trail is open year-round. Be prepared for varying weather. During the spring and early summer seasons, expect sections of the trail to be wet and muddy. 

Accessibility Information

From Cub Lake Trailhead, the trail to Cub Lake has an uneven, dirt surface with an elevation gain of 540 feet.