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
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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
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Aspen Winds on Fall River
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Tour Estes Park
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The Wapiti Colorado Pub
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Saint Catherine's Chapel on the Rock
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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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Estes Park Brewery
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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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Dream Lake
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Lake Haiyaha To Mills/Loch Jct Trl
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Lake Haiyaha
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Emerald Lake
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Sprague Lake
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Fern Lake
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Lake Of Glass
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Rocky Mountain National Park
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Keyhole Route
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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
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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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Nightclubs & after hour spots
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Tonic Alchemy Lounge
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Nitro Club
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Cedars Lounge
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Sahara Night hookah lounge
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The R Bar and Lounge
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Rec Room
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Bondi Beach Bar and Grill
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Marisela's Night Club
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Forest Room 5
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The Nearby Bar
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Roo-Bar Lounge
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