The group of luxuriant canyons east of the Continental Divide and north
of the eastern spur which ends in Longs Peak is known as the "Wild
Gardens" in distinction from the corresponding and scarcely less
magnificent hollow south of Longs Peak, which is known as "Wild Basin."
Of these canyons, one, the most gorgeous, frames two lakes of exquisite
beauty. The upper one, Odessa Lake, lies under the Continental Divide
and reflects snowy monsters in its still waters. The other, Fern Lake, a
mile below, is one of the loveliest examples of forest-bordered waters
in the Rockies.
These lakes are reached by trail from Moraine Park. They constitute a
day's trip of memorable charm. Fern Lodge, located at the edge of the
lake, offers comfortable accommodations. Several splendid trips can be
taken on foot with Fern Lake as a starting point. Winter sports are held
here every year. Forest Inn, a camp located at the Pool, is close to the
Fern Lake trail.
A trail connects Bear Lake with Odessa Lake. One of the finest trail
trips in the park is the circle trip from Bear Lake to Odessa Lake, and
thence to Fern Lake and Moraine Park. The distance from Bear Lake to the
Brinwood by this route is 9 miles, but a day is usually allowed for the
trip.
[Illustration: MAP OF ROCKY MOUNTAIN NATIONAL PARK]
[Illustration: HALLETT PEAK, TYNDALL GLACIER, AND FLATTOP MOUNTAIN,
ACROSS BEAR LAKE]
_Shelk photo._