Bear Lake Trailhead: Gateway to Rocky Mountain Majesty
Explore the heart of Rocky Mountain National Park from Bear Lake Trailhead, offering stunning alpine views and access to iconic hiking trails.
Located in Rocky Mountain National Park, the Bear Lake Trailhead provides access to stunning alpine scenery and a variety of hiking trails. This popular destination offers easy access to Bear Lake and serves as a starting point for more challenging adventures into the wilderness.
A brief summary to Bear Lake Trailhead
- Bear Lake Rd, Estes Park, Colorado, 80517, US
- +1970-586-1206
- Visit website
- 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, as parking fills up quickly.
- Consider using the free park shuttle to avoid traffic and parking hassles.
- Purchase a small interpretive guide at the trailhead to learn about the natural and geological history of the area.
- In winter, be prepared for snow and ice on the trails, and consider using traction devices.
- Check the park's website for information on timed entry permits, which may be required during certain times of the year.
Getting There
-
Shuttle
During the summer months, the free park shuttle is the most convenient way to reach Bear Lake Trailhead. Park at the Park & Ride on Bear Lake Road and take the Bear Lake Shuttle. The shuttle runs frequently, with stops at Bierstadt Lake Trailhead (currently closed), Glacier Gorge Trailhead, and Bear Lake Parking Area. The shuttle is free, but a park entrance pass may be required. During peak season, a timed entry permit may also be required to access the Bear Lake Road corridor. Cost: Free (park entrance pass required).
-
Car
From Estes Park, drive southwest on Highway 36 to enter Rocky Mountain National Park at the Beaver Meadows Entrance Station. Turn left onto Bear Lake Road and continue for about 10 miles to reach the Bear Lake Trailhead. Parking at Bear Lake Trailhead is limited and fills quickly, especially during peak season. If the lot is full, park at the Park & Ride and take the free shuttle. Park Entrance Fee: * 7-Day Vehicle Pass: $35 * 1-Day Vehicle Pass: $30
Discover more about Bear Lake Trailhead
Iconic landmarks you can’t miss
Forest Canyon Overlook
10.9 km
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
11.2 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
11.3 km
Explore the stunning natural beauty, outdoor adventures, and charming culture of Estes Park, your gateway to the Rocky Mountains.
The Wapiti Colorado Pub
11.5 km
Discover the flavors of Colorado at The Wapiti Colorado Pub in Estes Park, where local craft beers and delicious comfort food await.
Saint Catherine's Chapel on the Rock
11.8 km
Explore the spiritual and architectural charm of Saint Catherine's Chapel on the Rock amidst the breathtaking landscapes of Colorado.
Red Rose Rock Shop
11.8 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
12.1 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
12.1 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
12.1 km
Discover the flavors of Estes Park at Estes Park Brewery, where craft beer meets stunning mountain views and delicious pub fare.
Fun City
12.2 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
12.3 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
12.3 km
Discover the stunning Performance Park in Estes Park, Colorado - where breathtaking nature meets captivating performances in an enchanting amphitheater.
Estes Park Aerial Tramway
12.4 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
12.4 km
Discover the enchanting Water Wheel in Estes Park, a serene landmark that beautifully combines nature, history, and family fun.
Snowy Peaks Winery
12.4 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
Bear Lake Trail
0.3 km
Discover breathtaking alpine scenery on the accessible Bear Lake Trail, a must-see destination in Rocky Mountain National Park.
Glacier Gorge Junction Trailhead
0.5 km
Discover the breathtaking beauty of Glacier Gorge Junction Trailhead in Rocky Mountain National Park, a paradise for hikers and nature lovers.
Alberta Falls
1.1 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.
Dream Lake
1.2 km
Experience the breathtaking beauty of Dream Lake in Rocky Mountain National Park, where serene waters meet majestic mountain peaks.
Lake Haiyaha To Mills/Loch Jct Trl
1.3 km
Discover the turquoise waters and rugged beauty of Lake Haiyaha in Rocky Mountain National Park. A moderate hike with unforgettable alpine views.
Lake Haiyaha
1.6 km
Discover the breathtaking beauty and tranquility of Lake Haiyaha in Rocky Mountain National Park, a hidden gem for nature lovers and adventure seekers alike.
Emerald Lake
1.8 km
Discover the breathtaking beauty of Emerald Lake in Colorado's Rocky Mountain National Park, a must-visit destination for outdoor enthusiasts and nature lovers.
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
Explore the breathtaking beauty of Fern Lake, a tranquil sanctuary nestled in Colorado's Rocky Mountain National Park, perfect for nature lovers and outdoor enthusiasts.
Lake Of Glass
3.8 km
Hike to Lake of Glass in Rocky Mountain National Park for stunning reflections and breathtaking mountain views.
Rocky Mountain National Park
4.7 km
Experience the breathtaking beauty of Rocky Mountain National Park, a premier destination for nature lovers and adventure seekers in Colorado.
Hollowell Park
4.8 km
Explore the natural beauty of Hollowell Park in Rocky Mountain National Park, a serene hiking area perfect for nature lovers and outdoor enthusiasts.
Fern Lake Trailhead
4.9 km
Explore the enchanting Fern Lake Trailhead in Estes Park, Colorado, where breathtaking landscapes and serene hiking trails await outdoor enthusiasts.
Keyhole Route
5.9 km
Experience the thrill of summiting Longs Peak via the iconic Keyhole Route, a challenging mountaineering adventure in Rocky Mountain National Park.
Moraine Park
6.2 km
Explore Moraine Park in Estes Park, Colorado – a breathtaking destination for nature lovers and outdoor enthusiasts, offering stunning views, diverse wildlife, and serene landscapes.
Essential places to dine
The Rock Inn Mountain Tavern
9.6 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
10.2 km
Experience exceptional steaks and American cuisine at Twin Owls Steakhouse in Estes Park – where quality meets stunning mountain views.
Bird & Jim
10.3 km
Discover Bird & Jim: An exceptional dining experience featuring local American cuisine and stunning views in Estes Park.
Boss Burgers and Gyros
10.7 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
10.8 km
Experience mouthwatering barbecue at Smokin' Dave's BBQ in Estes Park - where smoky flavors meet stunning mountain views.
Trailhead Restaurant
11.2 km
Discover the flavors of Colorado at Trailhead Restaurant—where eclectic cuisine meets stunning mountain views in Estes Park.
Coffee on the Rocks
11.8 km
Discover Coffee on the Rocks in Estes Park – where quality brews meet breathtaking mountain views for an unforgettable experience.
Rivers Edge BBQ
11.9 km
Experience mouthwatering barbecue at Rivers Edge BBQ in Estes Park – where flavor meets nature's beauty.
The View Restaurant
12.3 km
Discover exquisite American cuisine amidst breathtaking mountain views at The View Restaurant in Estes Park.
Sweet Basilico Cafe
12.3 km
Discover authentic Italian flavors amidst stunning mountain views at Sweet Basilico Cafe in Estes Park.
Big Horn Restaurant
12.3 km
Experience family-friendly dining at Big Horn Restaurant in Estes Park with delicious American cuisine perfect for all tastes and budgets.
Twisted Griffin Irish Pub & Restaurant
12.4 km
Discover authentic Irish cuisine and warm hospitality at Twisted Griffin in Estes Park—your perfect dining destination in Colorado.
The Grubsteak Restaurant
12.5 km
Discover The Grubsteak Restaurant in Estes Park – where exceptional steaks meet warm hospitality amidst stunning mountain views.
The Wild Rose Restaurant
12.5 km
Experience the best of American and European cuisine at The Wild Rose Restaurant in Estes Park—where unique flavors meet stunning mountain views.
CAFE DE PHO THAI
12.5 km
Experience authentic Vietnamese and Thai flavors at Café de Pho Thai in Estes Park – where culinary delight meets scenic beauty.
Markets, malls and hidden boutiques
The Mad Moose
10.4 km
Explore The Mad Moose for top outdoor gear and unique souvenirs in Estes Park, the gateway to Rocky Mountain National Park.
The Village Store of Estes Park
10.4 km
Discover the charm of The Village Store in Estes Park, a perfect blend of clothing, gifts, and souvenirs for every traveler.
Wild Horse Gift Shop
10.9 km
Explore the Wild Horse Gift Shop for unique souvenirs and local crafts in the heart of Estes Park, Colorado.
Rocky Mountain Gateway
11.2 km
Explore the treasures of Rocky Mountain Gateway, your one-stop shop for unique gifts, camping gear, and authentic Native American crafts in Estes Park, Colorado.
The Trading Post of the Rockies
11.9 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
12.2 km
Explore Lizzie's Boutique in Estes Park for unique gifts and local treasures that capture the essence of Colorado's natural beauty.
Omnibus
12.4 km
Explore Omnibus in Estes Park, where exquisite handcrafted jewelry meets local artistry and charm.
Over The Edge
12.5 km
Discover unique gifts and local treasures in Estes Park at Over The Edge, where Colorado's spirit comes alive through stunning artisan creations.
Favorite Things
12.5 km
Explore Favorite Things in Estes Park for unique gifts, local art, and memorable souvenirs that capture the essence of Colorado.
The Whispering Wood
12.5 km
Discover unique handcrafted souvenirs that capture the spirit of Estes Park at The Whispering Wood, your go-to store for local treasures.
Country West City East Gifts
12.5 km
Discover unique souvenirs and local artisan gifts at Country West City East Gifts in Estes Park, a charming destination for every traveler.
Cabin Fever of Estes Park Co
12.5 km
Explore Cabin Fever in Estes Park for unique handmade jewelry and artisan crafts that capture the essence of Colorado's rich cultural heritage.
Rocky Mountain Souvenirs
12.5 km
Discover unique gifts and apparel that embody the spirit of the Rockies at Rocky Mountain Souvenirs in Estes Park.
Annie's
12.5 km
Discover unique gifts and local crafts at Annie's, a charming gift shop in Estes Park, CO, surrounded by the stunning beauty of the Rockies.
Estes Park Souvenirs
12.5 km
Discover an array of unique gifts and local crafts at Estes Park Souvenirs, capturing the essence of Colorado's charm and beauty.
Essential bars & hidden hideouts
Rock Cut Brewing Company
12.4 km
Discover the heart of craft beer culture at Rock Cut Brewing Company, a premier brewery in Estes Park, Colorado, offering stunning views and delicious brews.
Full Throttle Distillery & Grill Estes Park
12.5 km
Discover the flavors of Colorado at Full Throttle Distillery & Grill, where hearty meals and local spirits unite in a vibrant atmosphere.
Lonigans Saloon Nightclub & Grill, An Irish Pub
12.6 km
Discover the vibrant atmosphere of Lonigans Saloon Nightclub & Grill, a perfect blend of Irish pub charm and delightful grill cuisine in Estes Park.
Wheel Bar
12.7 km
Discover the lively atmosphere and innovative cocktails at The Wheel Bar, Estes Park's favorite cocktail destination for locals and tourists alike.
The Whiskey Bar At The Cascades Restaurant
13.3 km
Discover the elegance of The Whiskey Bar At The Cascades in Estes Park, where fine whiskeys and stunning mountain views meet in perfect harmony.
217 Wine Bar
13.3 km
Discover the best selection of fine wines at 217 Wine Bar in Estes Park, where scenic views meet exquisite flavors for a perfect evening.
Avant Garde Aleworks
13.5 km
Discover the essence of craft brewing at Avant Garde Aleworks, where exceptional beers meet stunning mountain views in Estes Park, Colorado.
The Bull Pin - Elevated Entertainment
13.5 km
Experience fun and excitement at The Bull Pin in Estes Park, featuring bowling, billiards, and arcade games for all ages.
Lumpy Ridge Brewing Co.
13.6 km
Experience the best of Colorado's craft brewery scene at Lumpy Ridge Brewing Co., where unique flavors and stunning mountain views await.
Pits & Stems
43.5 km
Discover the vibrant atmosphere of Pits & Stems, Boulder’s premier cocktail bar known for its innovative drinks and welcoming ambiance.
Randi's Grill & Pub
44.9 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.
West End Tavern
45.0 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
45.0 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
45.0 km
Discover The Bitter Bar, Boulder’s premier cocktail destination, offering unique drinks and a vibrant ambiance for a perfect night out.
License No. 1
45.0 km
Discover the heart of Boulder's nightlife at License No. 1, where live music meets delicious dining in a vibrant atmosphere.
