Bear Lake Trailhead: Gateway to Rocky Mountain Majesty
Explore stunning alpine scenery and iconic hiking trails at Bear Lake Trailhead in Rocky Mountain National Park.
Bear Lake Trailhead, nestled in Rocky Mountain National Park, is a popular starting point for exploring stunning alpine lakes and breathtaking mountain vistas. The area offers easy access to iconic destinations like Bear Lake, Dream Lake, and Emerald Lake, making it a must-visit for hikers of all skill levels.
A brief summary to Bear Lake Trailhead
- Monday 12 am-12 am
- Tuesday 12 am-12 am
- Wednesday 12 am-12 am
- Thursday 12 am-12 am
- Friday 12 am-12 am
- Saturday 12 am-12 am
- Sunday 12 am-12 am
Local tips
- Arrive early, especially during peak season, to secure parking or utilize the free park shuttle from the Park & Ride.
- Purchase a timed entry permit in advance at Recreation.gov to access the Bear Lake Road Corridor during the busy season.
- Wear layers and be prepared for changing weather conditions, as the weather in the mountains can shift rapidly.
- Bring traction devices like micro-spikes if hiking during winter or early spring due to icy conditions on the trails.
- Stay hydrated and carry snacks, especially if planning a longer hike to destinations like Dream Lake or Emerald Lake.
Getting There
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Driving
From Estes Park, drive approximately 4 miles southwest on Highway 36 to the Beaver Meadows Entrance of Rocky Mountain National Park. After entering the park, turn left onto Bear Lake Road and continue for about 10 miles to reach the Bear Lake Trailhead parking area. Note that a timed entry permit may be required to access Bear Lake Road during certain times of the year. Parking at the Bear Lake Trailhead is free, but limited. If the lot is full, utilize the free park shuttle from the Park & Ride.
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Public Transport
During the summer, take the free Hiker Shuttle from the Estes Park Visitor Center to the Park & Ride Transit Hub on Bear Lake Road. From the Park & Ride, transfer to the Bear Lake Shuttle, which runs every 10-15 minutes, to reach the Bear Lake Trailhead. The Hiker Shuttle and Bear Lake Shuttle are free to ride, but a park pass is required to enter Rocky Mountain National Park. A timed entry permit including Bear Lake Road may also be required. The timed entry permit costs $2.
Discover more about Bear Lake Trailhead
Iconic landmarks you can’t miss
Forest Canyon Overlook
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Discover the breathtaking views and serene beauty at Forest Canyon Overlook in Rocky Mountain National Park, a must-visit for every nature lover.
Aspen Winds on Fall River
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Tour Estes Park
11.3 km
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The Wapiti Colorado Pub
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Saint Catherine's Chapel on the Rock
11.8 km
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Red Rose Rock Shop
11.8 km
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Estes Park Aerial Tramway Top Terminal
12.1 km
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Open Air Adventure Park
12.1 km
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Estes Park Brewery
12.1 km
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Fun City
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Mrs. Walsh's Garden
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Performance Park
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Estes Park Aerial Tramway
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The Water Wheel
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Snowy Peaks Winery
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Unmissable attractions to see
Bear Lake Trail
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Glacier Gorge Junction Trailhead
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Alberta Falls
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Hike to a stunning 30-foot waterfall through beautiful forests in Rocky Mountain National Park. An easy and accessible natural wonder near Estes Park.
Dream Lake
1.2 km
Hike to a fairytale: Dream Lake in Rocky Mountain National Park offers stunning views and an easy escape into alpine beauty.
Lake Haiyaha To Mills/Loch Jct Trl
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Lake Haiyaha
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Emerald Lake
1.8 km
Hike to Emerald Lake in Rocky Mountain National Park for breathtaking alpine scenery and emerald-green waters.
Sprague Lake
3.7 km
Enjoy an easy, scenic hike around Sprague Lake in Rocky Mountain National Park, with stunning mountain views and accessible trails.
Fern Lake
3.8 km
Hike to a pristine alpine lake in Rocky Mountain National Park, surrounded by stunning views and natural beauty.
Lake Of Glass
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Rocky Mountain National Park
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Hollowell Park
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Fern Lake Trailhead
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Keyhole Route
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Moraine Park
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Essential places to dine
The Rock Inn Mountain Tavern
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Twin Owls Steakhouse
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Bird & Jim
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Boss Burgers and Gyros
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Smokin' Dave's BBQ - ESTES PARK
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Trailhead Restaurant
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Coffee on the Rocks
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Rivers Edge BBQ
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The View Restaurant
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Sweet Basilico Cafe
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Big Horn Restaurant
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Twisted Griffin Irish Pub & Restaurant
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The Grubsteak Restaurant
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The Wild Rose Restaurant
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CAFE DE PHO THAI
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Markets, malls and hidden boutiques
The Mad Moose
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The Village Store of Estes Park
10.4 km
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Wild Horse Gift Shop
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Rocky Mountain Gateway
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The Trading Post of the Rockies
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Lizzie's Boutique
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Omnibus
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Over The Edge
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Favorite Things
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The Whispering Wood
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Country West City East Gifts
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Cabin Fever of Estes Park Co
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Rocky Mountain Souvenirs
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Annie's
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Estes Park Souvenirs
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Essential bars & hidden hideouts
Rock Cut Brewing Company
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Full Throttle Distillery & Grill Estes Park
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Lonigans Saloon Nightclub & Grill, An Irish Pub
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Wheel Bar
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The Whiskey Bar At The Cascades Restaurant
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217 Wine Bar
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Avant Garde Aleworks
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The Bull Pin - Elevated Entertainment
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Lumpy Ridge Brewing Co.
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Pits & Stems
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Randi's Grill & Pub
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West End Tavern
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Press Play Bar LP
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The Bitter Bar
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License No. 1
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