Pass two very different Rocky Mountain lakes on this trail climbing up towards the continental divide. You’ll cross Spruce Creek on a large wooden bridge to head up towards Fern Lake at “The Pool”. Fern Lake, often flush with Rainbow Trout, lies in a wooded area.

Continue on for 1 mile to reach Odessa Lake, sitting right at treeline and offering a spectacular backdrop including Notchtop and Flattop Mountains and fresh waterfalls in the spring.

Fern Lake trailhead can have minimal parking. While Cub Lake trailhead isn’t much further down the road, it will add some distance (~1 mile each way) to the hike. Be prepared for a little extra distance as it is common to need to park a little ways down the road.