Odessa Lake

This out and back hike was easy but long, almost 10 miles. It was well maintained and marked. PLEASE NOTE I went from the fern lake trail head, not the upper lakes. The hike to the lake was bland as there was a prescribed fire, so there was not much to see for the first 4-5 miles. Odessa Lake was beautiful. I loved the snow-covered mountains in the distance! You could even see the waterfall where it all comes from. Be prepared. I went on 6/28, and it was quite windy.

We arrived around 8 and there was plenty of parking despite the park signs showing that the lot was full. Went to Odessa from the Bear Lake trailhead. 8 miles total. Moderate hike up to Lake Helene and then a descent to Odessa. The trail from Helene to Odessa had snowy and icy patches.

We got to the bear lake trailhead lake late in the day, so we arrived when it was dark. The view when we woke up is beyond stunning. If youre able to choose your campsite of the two, go to the left when you arrive. You’re around 50ft from the picture I took. The hike up was a bit steep and strenuous, I wouldn’t say I’m entirely out of shape but it did take us around 4-5 hours to get there from the bear lake trailhead. Overall 10/10 beyond beautiful, would 100% come back and recommend to anyone.

I loved this hike. It was a full day if you start from fern lake. It was steep and took most of the day. It probably would have been easier from bear lake. Great hike with a wonderful payoff with an amazing view.

Normal hiking boots were fine but I suspect not for long