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Bear Lake, Rocky Mountain National Park

Lakes

Bear Lake, Rocky Mountain National Park

Highlight • Lake

Bear Lake, Rocky Mountain National Park

Name: Bear Lake, Rocky Mountain National Park
Rating: 2

Recommended by 11 hikers

This Highlight is in a protected area

Please check local regulations for: Rocky Mountain National Park

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Location: Larimer County, Colorado, United States

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Best Hikes to Bear Lake, Rocky Mountain National Park

4.9

(31)

268

hikers

1. Bear Lake – Emerald Lake loop from Grand Lake

19.0km

05:50

580m

Expert hike. Very good fitness required. Mostly accessible paths. Sure-footedness required.

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Expert

4.8

(11)

211

hikers

2. Alberta Falls – Bear Lake loop from Grand Lake

5.29km

01:33

150m

Easy hike. Great for any fitness level. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.

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Easy

5.0

(2)

hikers

3. Bear Lake – Bear Lake loop from Grand Lake

3.27km

00:58

100m

Easy hike. Great for any fitness level. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.

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Easy

Tips

Faheem Hunarwar 🌲

June 2, 2025

Bear Lake, Rocky Mountain National Park, United States 🇺🇸

Bear Lake, nestled in the heart of Rocky Mountain National Park, is a truly breathtaking destination that captivates visitors with its serene beauty and stunning alpine scenery. The lake serves as a popular starting point for numerous trails, offering hikers of all skill levels the opportunity to explore the surrounding wilderness. From leisurely strolls around the lake's perimeter to more strenuous climbs leading to higher elevations, the trails provide unparalleled views of majestic peaks, lush forests, and diverse wildlife, making it a paradise for nature enthusiasts and photographers alike.

The journey to Bear Lake itself is an experience, winding through picturesque landscapes that showcase the raw grandeur of the Rocky Mountains. Once there, the reflections of snow-capped peaks and towering pine trees on the calm surface of the lake create a mirror-like effect, offering an iconic vista that is often photographed. The air is crisp and clean, carrying the scent of pine, and the tranquil atmosphere provides a perfect escape from the hustle and bustle of everyday life, inviting quiet contemplation and appreciation for the natural world.

Beyond its visual appeal, Bear Lake and its environs are teeming with ecological significance. The area is home to a rich variety of flora and fauna, including elk, deer, and various bird species, which can often be spotted by observant visitors. The changing seasons bring a different charm to the lake, from the vibrant wildflowers of summer to the golden aspens of autumn and the pristine snowscapes of winter, ensuring that each visit offers a unique and memorable encounter with the untouched beauty of the Rocky Mountains.

Lauren & Bailey 🐕🐾

July 22, 2025

Please note: In some seasons, you'll need a reservation.

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Details

Informations

Elevation 2,890 m

Weather

Saturday 8 November

3°C

-8°C

13 %

If you start your activity now...

Max wind speed: 54.0 km/h

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See hikes here

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Location: Larimer County, Colorado, United States

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Bear Lake, Rocky Mountain National Park

1. Bear Lake – Emerald Lake loop from Grand Lake

2. Alberta Falls – Bear Lake loop from Grand Lake

3. Bear Lake – Bear Lake loop from Grand Lake

Other Popular Places to Check Out

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