Bear Lake Area
Rocky Mountain National Park, Colorado
About This Activity
Bear Lake is the most popular trailhead in Rocky Mountain National Park — an easy 0.8-mile loop circles the pristine alpine lake with Hallett Peak reflections. Trails branch to Nymph Lake (1.0 mi RT), Dream Lake (2.2 mi RT), and Emerald Lake (3.6 mi RT), each increasingly dramatic. For 2026: a Timed Entry + Bear Lake Road reservation (separate from general park entry) is required May 22–Oct 12, 5 AM–6 PM; book at recreation.gov. The Bear Lake shuttle runs from the Park & Ride lot. Arrive before 9 AM in summer — parking fills fast.
Seasonal note: Open year-round; snowshoeing in winter. Bear Lake Road timed entry reservation required May 22–Oct 12. Summer: arrive before 9 AM.
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