Dream Lake: A Rocky Mountain Fairytale
Hike to a fairytale: Dream Lake in Rocky Mountain National Park offers stunning views and an easy escape into alpine beauty.
Dream Lake is a stunning alpine lake in Rocky Mountain National Park, Colorado. The 2.2-mile round trip hike from Bear Lake Trailhead offers breathtaking views of Hallett Peak and Flattop Mountain, making it a popular destination for hikers of all levels.
A brief summary to Dream Lake
- Colorado, US
Local tips
- Arrive early, especially during peak season, as parking at Bear Lake Trailhead fills quickly.
- Take the free park shuttle to avoid traffic and parking hassles.
- Check the weather forecast before heading out, as conditions in the mountains can change rapidly.
- Bring water and snacks, and wear appropriate footwear for hiking.
- Consider visiting in the early morning for the best chance to see Hallett Peak reflected in the lake's calm waters.
Getting There
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Driving
To reach Dream Lake, start from Estes Park and drive southwest on Highway 36 for approximately 4 miles to the Beaver Meadows Entrance of Rocky Mountain National Park. Turn left onto Bear Lake Road and continue for about 10 miles to the Bear Lake Trailhead. Note that a timed entry permit may be required to enter the park and access the Bear Lake Road Corridor between late May and mid-October. The parking lot at Bear Lake Trailhead often fills up early, so consider arriving before 8 AM. Parking fee is included in the RMNP entrance fee.
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Public Transport
During the summer months, take the free Hiker Shuttle from the Estes Park Visitor Center to the Park & Ride Transit Hub on Bear Lake Road. From there, transfer to the Bear Lake Shuttle, which runs every 10-15 minutes and stops at the Bear Lake Trailhead. The Hiker Shuttle requires reservations. Park entry fees still apply. The Bear Lake and Hiker Shuttles are free.
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Walking
From the Bear Lake Trailhead parking lot, the trail to Dream Lake begins. Follow the well-marked trail for approximately 1.1 miles. The trail is mostly paved for the first half-mile to Nymph Lake. Continue along the dirt trail, following signs for Dream Lake. The total elevation gain is 425 feet. No fees are required beyond park entrance fees.
Discover more about Dream Lake
Iconic landmarks you can’t miss
Rocky Mountain National Park Sign
10.8 km
Discover the breathtaking landscapes and diverse wildlife of Rocky Mountain National Park, a natural wonder in Colorado for outdoor adventures and serene escapes.
Aspen Winds on Fall River
12.1 km
Discover tranquility at Aspen Winds on Fall River, a perfect lodge for nature lovers and adventure seekers in Estes Park, Colorado.
Tour Estes Park
12.4 km
Explore the stunning natural beauty, outdoor adventures, and charming culture of Estes Park, your gateway to the Rocky Mountains.
Saint Catherine's Chapel on the Rock
12.6 km
Explore the spiritual and architectural charm of Saint Catherine's Chapel on the Rock amidst the breathtaking landscapes of Colorado.
The Wapiti Colorado Pub
12.6 km
Discover the flavors of Colorado at The Wapiti Colorado Pub in Estes Park, where local craft beers and delicious comfort food await.
Red Rose Rock Shop
12.9 km
Explore the Red Rose Rock Shop in Estes Park – a gem of natural wonders showcasing exquisite rocks, minerals, and unique souvenirs.
Estes Park Aerial Tramway Top Terminal
13.2 km
Experience the breathtaking vistas of the Rockies with a ride on the Estes Park Aerial Tramway, a must-visit tourist attraction in Colorado.
Open Air Adventure Park
13.2 km
Experience the thrill of outdoor adventures at Open Air Adventure Park, where excitement meets breathtaking natural beauty in Estes Park, Colorado.
Estes Park Brewery
13.2 km
Discover the flavors of Estes Park at Estes Park Brewery, where craft beer meets stunning mountain views and delicious pub fare.
Fun City
13.3 km
Discover endless fun for the whole family at Fun City, Estes Park's ultimate amusement park, featuring go-karts, miniature golf, and more!
Mrs. Walsh's Garden
13.3 km
Discover the tranquil beauty of Mrs. Walsh's Garden in Estes Park, a serene retreat filled with vibrant flora and enchanting sculptures.
Performance Park
13.4 km
Discover the stunning Performance Park in Estes Park, Colorado - where breathtaking nature meets captivating performances in an enchanting amphitheater.
Estes Park Aerial Tramway
13.5 km
Experience breathtaking views and adventure at Estes Park Aerial Tramway, a premier mountain cable car attraction in the heart of Colorado's Rockies.
The Water Wheel
13.5 km
Discover the enchanting Water Wheel in Estes Park, a serene landmark that beautifully combines nature, history, and family fun.
Snowy Peaks Winery
13.5 km
Experience the perfect blend of exquisite local wines and breathtaking Rocky Mountain views at Snowy Peaks Winery in Estes Park, Colorado.
Unmissable attractions to see
Lake Haiyaha
0.6 km
Discover Lake Haiyaha in Rocky Mountain National Park: A moderate hike to stunning alpine views and unique turquoise waters.
Emerald Lake
0.7 km
Hike to Emerald Lake in Rocky Mountain National Park for breathtaking alpine scenery and emerald-green waters.
Bear Lake Trail
1.1 km
Discover stunning alpine scenery on an easy loop trail around picturesque Bear Lake in Rocky Mountain National Park.
Lake Haiyaha To Mills/Loch Jct Trl
1.1 km
Discover the turquoise waters and rugged beauty of Lake Haiyaha in Rocky Mountain National Park, Colorado.
Bear Lake Trailhead
1.2 km
Discover the breathtaking beauty of Bear Lake Trailhead in Rocky Mountain National Park, an outdoor haven for hiking and nature enthusiasts alike.
Glacier Gorge Junction Trailhead
1.6 km
Explore Rocky Mountain National Park's stunning trails from Glacier Gorge Junction, a hiker's paradise with alpine lakes and waterfalls.
Alberta Falls
1.9 km
Hike to a stunning 30-foot waterfall through beautiful forests in Rocky Mountain National Park. An easy and accessible natural wonder near Estes Park.
Lake Of Glass
3.1 km
Hike to Lake of Glass in Rocky Mountain National Park for stunning reflections and breathtaking mountain views.
Fern Lake
3.3 km
Hike to a pristine alpine lake in Rocky Mountain National Park, surrounded by stunning views and natural beauty.
Rocky Mountain National Park
4.3 km
Discover the majestic beauty of the Rockies: hiking, scenic drives & wildlife await in this iconic Colorado National Park.
Sprague Lake
4.8 km
Enjoy an easy, scenic hike around Sprague Lake in Rocky Mountain National Park, with stunning mountain views and accessible trails.
Fern Lake Trailhead
5.6 km
Hike to a serene alpine lake through diverse landscapes in Rocky Mountain National Park near Estes Park, Colorado.
Hollowell Park
5.8 km
Find serenity at Hollowell Park in Rocky Mountain National Park, with stunning views, picnic spots, and easy hiking trails.
Keyhole Route
6.4 km
Experience the thrill of summiting Longs Peak via the iconic Keyhole Route, a challenging mountaineering adventure in Rocky Mountain National Park.
Chasm View
6.8 km
Experience breathtaking views from Chasm View in Rocky Mountain National Park, where nature's grandeur unfolds before your eyes.
Essential places to dine
The Rock Inn Mountain Tavern
10.7 km
Experience the best of American cuisine and craft brews at The Rock Inn Mountain Tavern in Estes Park – your cozy retreat after exploring nature's wonders.
Twin Owls Steakhouse
11.3 km
Experience exceptional steaks and American cuisine at Twin Owls Steakhouse in Estes Park – where quality meets stunning mountain views.
Bird & Jim
11.4 km
Discover Bird & Jim: An exceptional dining experience featuring local American cuisine and stunning views in Estes Park.
Boss Burgers and Gyros
11.8 km
Indulge in mouth-watering burgers and authentic gyros at Boss Burgers and Gyros – your go-to spot in scenic Estes Park.
Smokin' Dave's BBQ - ESTES PARK
11.9 km
Experience mouthwatering barbecue at Smokin' Dave's BBQ in Estes Park - where smoky flavors meet stunning mountain views.
Trailhead Restaurant
12.0 km
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Coffee on the Rocks
12.9 km
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Rivers Edge BBQ
13.0 km
Experience mouthwatering barbecue at Rivers Edge BBQ in Estes Park – where flavor meets nature's beauty.
Big Horn Restaurant
13.3 km
Experience family-friendly dining at Big Horn Restaurant in Estes Park with delicious American cuisine perfect for all tastes and budgets.
The View Restaurant
13.4 km
Discover exquisite American cuisine amidst breathtaking mountain views at The View Restaurant in Estes Park.
Sweet Basilico Cafe
13.4 km
Discover authentic Italian flavors amidst stunning mountain views at Sweet Basilico Cafe in Estes Park.
Twisted Griffin Irish Pub & Restaurant
13.5 km
Discover authentic Irish cuisine and warm hospitality at Twisted Griffin in Estes Park—your perfect dining destination in Colorado.
The Grubsteak Restaurant
13.6 km
Discover The Grubsteak Restaurant in Estes Park – where exceptional steaks meet warm hospitality amidst stunning mountain views.
The Wild Rose Restaurant
13.6 km
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Bob & Tonys Pizza
13.6 km
Experience authentic pizza crafted with love at Bob & Tony's Pizza in Estes Park – your perfect dining stop amidst Colorado's natural beauty.
Markets, malls and hidden boutiques
The Mad Moose
11.5 km
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The Village Store of Estes Park
11.5 km
Discover the charm of The Village Store in Estes Park, a perfect blend of clothing, gifts, and souvenirs for every traveler.
Rocky Mountain Gateway
12.0 km
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Wild Horse Gift Shop
12.0 km
Explore the Wild Horse Gift Shop for unique souvenirs and local crafts in the heart of Estes Park, Colorado.
The Trading Post of the Rockies
13.0 km
Explore a treasure trove of unique souvenirs and local crafts at The Trading Post of the Rockies in scenic Estes Park.
Lizzie's Boutique
13.3 km
Explore Lizzie's Boutique in Estes Park for unique gifts and local treasures that capture the essence of Colorado's natural beauty.
Omnibus
13.5 km
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Over The Edge
13.5 km
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Favorite Things
13.5 km
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The Whispering Wood
13.5 km
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Country West City East Gifts
13.5 km
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Cabin Fever of Estes Park Co
13.6 km
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Rocky Mountain Souvenirs
13.6 km
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Estes Park Souvenirs
13.6 km
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Annie's
13.6 km
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Essential bars & hidden hideouts
Rock Cut Brewing Company
13.5 km
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Full Throttle Distillery & Grill Estes Park
13.5 km
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Lonigans Saloon Nightclub & Grill, An Irish Pub
13.6 km
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Wheel Bar
13.8 km
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The Whiskey Bar At The Cascades Restaurant
14.4 km
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217 Wine Bar
14.4 km
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Avant Garde Aleworks
14.6 km
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The Bull Pin - Elevated Entertainment
14.6 km
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Lumpy Ridge Brewing Co.
14.7 km
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Pits & Stems
44.2 km
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Randi's Grill & Pub
44.3 km
Experience authentic Irish cuisine and warm hospitality at Randi's Grill & Pub in Winter Park, a cozy getaway for food lovers and adventure seekers.
Gravity Haus Winter Park
44.7 km
Experience the perfect blend of luxury and adventure at Gravity Haus Winter Park, your gateway to the Rocky Mountains.
West End Tavern
45.6 km
Discover the West End Tavern in Boulder, Colorado – a lively bar with stunning rooftop views, delicious food, and a vibrant atmosphere perfect for unwinding.
Press Play Bar LP
45.6 km
Discover the joy of retro gaming and craft beverages at Press Play Bar in Boulder, where every visit promises fun and unforgettable memories.
The Bitter Bar
45.6 km
Discover The Bitter Bar, Boulder’s premier cocktail destination, offering unique drinks and a vibrant ambiance for a perfect night out.
