RT Cub Lake

A scenic subalpine lake reached by a gradual forest and meadow hike, featuring wildlife-rich wetlands, beaver ponds, and expansive mountain views.

General Information

Hours:

Open 24 hours a day, year-round; some roads and facilities may close seasonally
Timed entry permit required during peak season (mid-May through mid-October) from 9am to 2pm

Length:

About 4.6–6.2 miles round trip depending on route

Elevation Gain:

Approximately 540–750 feet

Difficulty:

Moderate

Fees:

Private Vehicle (1-day pass): $30
Private Vehicle (7-day pass): $35
Per Person (walk-in/bike): $15 per day
Motorcycle (1-day): $25
Annual pass available

Pet Policy:

Pets are not allowed on trails

Closest cities with hotels:

Estes Park (5 mi)

Seasons:

Late spring through fall best; winter accessible with snow conditions

Location:

Cub Lake Trailhead, Estes Park, CO 80517

Website:

nps.gov/hike-to-cub-lake

How to Get There

From Estes Park (5 mi): Enter the national park via the Beaver Meadows Entrance on US-36, continue on Bear Lake Road for about 1.3 miles, turn onto Moraine Park Road toward the campground, then follow Fern Lake Road approximately 1.3 miles to the Cub Lake Trailhead parking area.

Overview

The Cub Lake trail offers a diverse journey through open meadows, recovering burn areas, and aspen groves before reaching a peaceful lake nestled at the edge of the forest. Beginning near a river crossing, the route follows the western margin of a broad valley where elk and other wildlife are frequently spotted grazing in the distance. As the trail gradually climbs, the scenery transitions into a patchwork of wetlands and ponds created by beaver activity, providing a rich habitat for birds and aquatic species.

Closer to the lake, the landscape reveals signs of natural renewal following past wildfires, with young vegetation thriving among charred remnants of older forest. The lake itself is often covered with lily pads and reflects the surrounding ridgelines, creating a quiet and contemplative atmosphere. Popular yet less crowded than other nearby destinations, this hike blends ecological diversity with sweeping views, making it a rewarding introduction to the varied environments found throughout the park.

This article uses material from the Wikipedia articles and official National Park Service pages for the Cub Lake, which are released under the Creative Commons Attribution-Share-Alike License 3.0.