Hike Distance | 0.6 mile loop |
---|---|
Difficulty | Easy |
Duration | Approx 30 min |
Trail Type | Loop |
Starting Elevation | 9475′ |
Elevation Gain | +20′ |
Seasons | Year Round |
Dogs | Dogs Prohibited in RMNP |
Hike Trail Map | Click for a Trail Map |
Denver Drive Time | 2 hours |
Driving Directions to Bear Lake Trailhead | Click for Google Map |
Town Nearest Hike | Estes Park, Colorado |
Beauty | Sub-Alpine Lake, Mountain Views, Wildlife: Abert’s Squirrel, Elk, Bear |
Activities | Picnicking, Snowshoeing, Hiking Trails |
Conditions at Bear Lake Trailhead | Click Here |
Fee | Park Pass Required |
Bear lake is the epicenter of Rocky Mountain National Park. This means that you can access a ton of trails from here, but it also means a lot of traffic. So, we always recommend getting there early, on weekdays, and to go during the off-season – if you can. The Bear Lake Trail is a short 0.6 mile loop around a beautiful lake with views of the Rocky Mountains. The hike is considered handicap accessible; however, the trail is not paved.
Tips & Resources for Hiking Bear Lake In Rocky Mountain National Park :
- For Disabled Visitors: Check out the Disabled Travelers’ Companion Website for great info and pictures on more accessible trails in RMNP
- Check out: See our Handicap Accessible Hikes Page for more hikes as well
- Visiting Family & Friends: This is a great place to take visiting family and friends because it’s not too difficult, and you have a lot of options if you want to explore the park
- Bring a Lunch: Getting this far into the park, even just driving, is quite a trip from the outside world. We suggest packing a lunch so that you can stay longer. And food just tastes better outside anyway.
- Trail Map for Rocky Mountain National Park: Trail Map Link
- Colorado Road Conditions: Colorado Road Conditions
- After the Hike: Poppy’s Pizza
Weather
A great gentle easy hike. My dad managed it with a boot on (ankle problems) and the views are breathtaking!
I agree, Bear Lake is a great place to start a Colorado hiking vacation. Lots of trails start from the area and you only have to walk about fifty feet from your car to have a beautiful view of the lake.
bear lake is a beautiful and good place