Glacier Gorge Junction Trailhead: Gateway to Rocky Mountain Majesty
Explore iconic trails and glacial landscapes from this popular Rocky Mountain National Park trailhead. Hike to waterfalls, lakes, and stunning alpine views.
Glacier Gorge Junction Trailhead, nestled in Rocky Mountain National Park, is a popular starting point for iconic hikes. At 9,240 feet, it provides access to stunning destinations like Alberta Falls, Mills Lake, and Sky Pond, showcasing the park's glacial-carved landscape and alpine beauty.
A brief summary to Glacier Gorge Junction Trailhead
- Bear Lake Rd, Estes Park, Colorado, 80517, US
- Visit website
Local tips
- Arrive before sunrise to secure parking, especially during peak season.
- Utilize the free park shuttle from the Park & Ride to avoid parking hassles.
- Bring plenty of water and snacks, as the altitude can make hikes more strenuous.
- Check the weather forecast and trail conditions before heading out, as conditions can change rapidly.
- Consider a longer hike to combine Alberta Falls with Mills Lake, Loch Vale or Sky Pond for an extended adventure.
Getting There
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Shuttle
From Estes Park, take the Hiker Shuttle from the Estes Park Visitor Center to the Park & Ride on Bear Lake Road. From the Park & Ride, transfer to the free Bear Lake Shuttle. This shuttle stops directly at the Glacier Gorge Trailhead. Reservations for the Hiker Shuttle are $2 and can be made at recreation.gov. The Bear Lake Shuttle is free and runs every 10-15 minutes. A park entrance pass is required.
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Car
From Estes Park, follow CO-36 W into Rocky Mountain National Park. Continue past the Beaver Meadows Visitor Center, turning left onto Bear Lake Road. Drive approximately 8 miles to the Glacier Gorge Trailhead. Parking at the trailhead is limited and fills early. A valid park entrance pass is required. As of July 2025, a 7-day vehicle pass costs $35. A timed entry permit may also be required, depending on the time of year and entry time.
Discover more about Glacier Gorge Junction Trailhead
Iconic landmarks you can’t miss
Rainbow Curve Overlook
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Aspen Winds on Fall River
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Tour Estes Park
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Saint Catherine's Chapel on the Rock
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The Wapiti Colorado Pub
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Forest Canyon Overlook
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Red Rose Rock Shop
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Estes Park Aerial Tramway Top Terminal
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Open Air Adventure Park
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Fun City
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Performance Park
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Snowy Peaks Winery
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Unmissable attractions to see
Bear Lake Trailhead
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Bear Lake Trail
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Alberta Falls
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Lake Haiyaha To Mills/Loch Jct Trl
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Dream Lake
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Lake Haiyaha
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Emerald Lake
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Sprague Lake
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Lake Of Glass
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Fern Lake
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Essential places to dine
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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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Markets, malls and hidden boutiques
The Mad Moose
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The Village Store of Estes Park
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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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Annie's
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