Discover the Majestic Alberta Falls

Getting There

• Car

  If you are traveling by car within Rocky Mountain National Park, start at the Beaver Meadows Entrance Station. After entering the park, continue on Bear Lake Road for approximately 5 miles until you reach the Bear Lake Trailhead parking area. Note that parking can fill up quickly, especially during peak tourist season, so arrive early or consider visiting during off-peak hours. From the Bear Lake Trailhead, follow the Alberta Falls trail, which is well-marked. The hike to Alberta Falls is about 1.6 miles round trip, taking roughly 30-45 minutes each way with moderate elevation gain.

• Shuttle

  During the summer months, the park offers a shuttle service that operates from the Estes Park area to various trailheads in the park, including the Bear Lake area. You can catch the shuttle at designated stops throughout Estes Park. Purchase a shuttle ticket at the boarding location or online in advance. Once you arrive at the Bear Lake shuttle stop, follow the signs to the Alberta Falls trail, which is a short walk from the shuttle drop-off point. The hiking distance remains the same at approximately 1.6 miles round trip.

• Public Transportation

  If you are relying on public transportation, you can take the local bus service from Estes Park to Rocky Mountain National Park. The bus will drop you off at the Beaver Meadows Visitor Center. From there, you can either hike to the Bear Lake Trailhead (approximately 2.5 miles along the park road) or catch the shuttle service that runs during the summer months. Ensure you check the bus schedule ahead of time for operating hours and routes. Once at Bear Lake, follow the trail to Alberta Falls.