Bear Lake

Bear Lake in spring

NPS

• Distance: 0.7 miles  
• Elevation Gain: 20 ft (6 km)
• Type of Trail: Loop trail around Bear Lake, benches are located in many scenic places along the trail.

Enjoy picturesque views of an alpine lake as well as Hallett Peak and the Continental Divide. Located at 9,475 ft (2,888 m) above sea level, Bear Lake is one of the most popular areas to visit within Rocky Mountain National Park.

Bear Lake is not visible right from the parking area. Walk uphill past the Bear Lake Ranger Station a short distance from the Bear Lake Parking Area and the shuttle bus drop-off location to enjoy views of Bear Lake. There is a 0.7 mile trail that goes around the edge of the lake, with many viewing areas. There are wooden benches conveniently available at most of these locations.

Many scenic hiking destinations can be accessed from Bear Lake, including Alberta Falls, Dream Lake, Emerald Lake, Flattop Mountain, Lake Haiyaha, The Loch, Bierstadt Lake, Fern Lake and more! 

Note: The Bear Lake Road Corridor is very busy, especially in spring, summer and fall. Depending on what time of day you plan to arrive, you might need a Timed Entry + Bear Lake Road Reservation to enter the Bear Lake Road Corridor. 

Parking often fills by early morning. The park’s free shuttle bus is here to help! Park your vehicle at Park & Ride and ride the Bear Lake Shuttle to reach Glacier Gorge Trailhead and Bear Lake Trailhead. 

Details

Activity

Hiking

The Bear Lake Loop trail is 0.7 miles and it travels around the lake. In winter and spring, this trail is covered with snow and ice. Traction devices are advised. The path from the trailhead to the lake can be very icy. Many trails begin from the Bear Lake area. In winter and spring, snowshoes may be needed at higher elevations.

Pets Allowed

No

Pets are prohibited on all trails within Rocky Mountain National Park. 

Activity Fee

No

Entrance fees may apply, see Fees & Passes information.

Location

Bear Lake Trailhead

Bear Lake Trailhead is located at the front of Bear Lake Parking Area. The trail begins next to the ranger station. Walk up a snow-covered path approximately 200 feet to reach your first view of Bear Lake. Bear Lake is not visible from the parking area.

Reservations

Yes

During the summer season, depending on what time of day you plan to arrive you might need a Timed Entry + Bear Lake Road reservation to enter the Bear Lake Road Corridor.

To learn more, visit the park's Timed Entry Permit Reservation webpage at https://www.nps.gov/romo/planyourvisit/timed-entry-permit-system.htm

Season

Year Round

Bear Lake is open year-round. In the winter and spring, be prepared for snow throughout the Bear Lake area.

Accessibility Information

Bear Lake Loop Trail is a dirt trail with an uneven surface. From October to late May or early June, expect the trail to be covered with snow and ice. There are some steep uphill and then downhill sections. The width of the trail varies as you travel around the 0.6 mile loop trail around the lake. 

The distance from the designated accessible parking to the Bear Lake Ranger Station is 160 feet. The average running slope 7.2%, with a maximum running slope of 14%. Some cross slopes are up to 7%.

The distance from the Bear Lake Ranger Station to first viewpoint of Bear Lake is 410 feet, with an average running slope of 6.3% and a maximum running slope of 10%. Some cross slopes are up to 7%.

The distance from the designated accessible parking spaces to the restrooms is 40 feet.