Beaverhead Rock State Park | Dillon

Bear Lake is a natural alpine lake situated in Rocky Mountain National Park, near Estes Park, Colorado.

Visual Characteristics

Bear Lake is a body of water with a surface area of approximately 18 acres. The water color varies from deep blue to green depending on light conditions and depth. The lake is surrounded by coniferous forest, primarily lodgepole pine and spruce, with granite formations visible along its perimeter. The elevation of the lake is 9,450 feet above sea level.

Location & Access Logistics

Bear Lake is located at the end of Bear Lake Road, approximately 10 miles from the Beaver Meadows Entrance Station of Rocky Mountain National Park. Access to Bear Lake Road is restricted to vehicles with a timed entry permit during peak season (typically May 26 to October 22). During these periods, visitors must use the park's free shuttle bus system. The Bear Lake Trailhead parking lot has limited capacity and often fills early. The park shuttle bus system operates from the Estes Park Visitor Center and connects to various trailheads along Bear Lake Road, including Bear Lake.

Historical & Ecological Origin

Bear Lake is a glacial lake, formed by the erosive action of glaciers during the Pleistocene epoch. The surrounding landscape, including the U-shaped valleys and moraines, is a direct result of glacial activity. The lake is part of the montane and subalpine ecosystems of the Rocky Mountains.

Key Highlights & Activities

A paved, accessible 0.6-mile loop trail encircles Bear Lake, suitable for walking and strollers. Hiking trails originate from the Bear Lake Trailhead, including the moderate hike to Emerald Lake (3.2 miles roundtrip) and the more strenuous hike to Sky Pond (9.0 miles roundtrip). Photography is a common activity, particularly during sunrise and sunset for lighting conditions. Fishing is permitted in Bear Lake and its outlet stream, subject to Colorado fishing regulations.

Infrastructure & Amenities

Restrooms are available at the Bear Lake Trailhead. Shaded areas are provided by the surrounding forest. Cell phone signal is intermittent and unreliable within the park, especially at Bear Lake. No food vendors are located directly at Bear Lake; food services are available at the Bear Lake Road corridor's Sprague Lake area and in Estes Park.

Best Time to Visit

For photography, early morning (sunrise) and late afternoon (sunset) offer optimal lighting. The best months for visiting are generally July through September, when most trails are snow-free and weather conditions are most stable. Snow can persist on trails into June and begin in September. The lake is accessible year-round, but winter access requires snowshoes or skis, and Bear Lake Road may close due to snow.

Facts & Legends

The name "Bear Lake" is attributed to the historical presence of black bears in the area. A specific local legend suggests that the lake's depth is unknown, though geological surveys indicate a maximum depth of approximately 18 feet.

Nearby Landmarks

• Sprague Lake (1.5km South)
• Alberta Falls (2.0km Southeast)
• Glacier Gorge Trailhead (2.5km Southeast)
• Mills Lake (3.5km Southeast)
• Dream Lake (3.5km Southeast)