Hike the Bear Lake trail in Rocky Mountain National Park

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Bear Lake - 0.5 mile loop

Trail Type: Short Hike
Trailhead: Bear Lake
Trailhead Elevation: 9,475'
Destination Elevation: 9,522'
Total Elevation Gain: 20'
Total Roundtrip Miles: 0.5

Bear Lake

Trail Description
The trail around this high alpine lake in Rocky Mountain National Park is among the most commonly hiked trails in the Park. Enjoy magnificent views of Hallett Peak and walk along the north shore to see views of Longs Peak and the Key Board of the Winds. The walk does include many scenic benches and resting places and part of the trail is Handicap accessible. Be sure to pick up the Self-Guided Nature Walk pamphlet available.

How to Get There
Take the Bear Lake Road from US 36 to the Bear Lake trailhead, 9.7 miles. Parking during the summer season is very limited. It's best to utilize the Hiker Shuttle from the Estes Park Visitor Center and the Park Shuttle Buses.

Trail Profile