Trip Planner: USA / Colorado / Rocky Mountain National Park / Bear Lake

Bear Lake, Rocky Mountain National Park

4.7

#1 of 48 in Parks in Rocky Mountain National Park

The second-largest natural freshwater lake in Utah, Bear Lake has been nicknamed Caribbean of the Rockies because of the piercing turquoise color of its water. Limestone deposits reflecting in the water are the cause of the distinctive blue color of this 250,000-year-old lake. This lake and its surrounding area offer recreational activities year-round, from fly-fishing and Jet-Skiing in the water, to skiing on the snowy nearby slopes in the colder months. You can also spot plenty of wildlife and birds here, and the area is known for its raspberries. To visit Bear Lake on your trip to Rocky Mountain National Park, use our Rocky Mountain National Park trip maker .

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Bear Lake Reviews

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TripAdvisor Traveler Rating

1,452 reviews

Google

4.8

By frequenttravellerMd On July 4, 2018

Just amazing. You drive up to the lake, then hike all around. This lake is only a few hundred feet away from the parking area. Elderly and wheelchair bound folks could make it to the lake. You can wal... more »
By Julie N On July 3, 2018

Anyone that visits Estes Park and Rocky mountain National Park must include Bear Lake on the agenda! Nestled in the Rockies with great views of Hallet Peak and Flat Top mountain, Bear Lake is a lovely... more »
By writerjordan On July 3, 2018

Bear Lake is honestly overrated. I visited Sprague Lake, Emerald Lake, Nymph Lake, and Dream Lake on my trip to Colorado, and I would honestly rank Bear Lake last on that list. It is a short loop, and... more »

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Google

By John Koehn On September 8, 2018

A great spot for a picnic. An easy hike around the lake for kids and a trailhead for many other fun hikes.

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By Alex Guerra On June 27, 2018

Beautiful. Great trails for hiking. Great views. Family friendly. Free shuttle buses. You will get a work out. Bring a hat, sun tan lotion, and water for the trails. A must place to visit. Highly recommend.

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By Dustin Kellog On August 2, 2018

Very nice and a must if you are close to this area. The town is famous for raspberry shakes, also a must.

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By Tanuja Awasthi On May 9, 2018

I got to see it when it was frozen. The frozen bear lake has its own beauty. Beautiful views. Drive to the lake was amazing. It is truly a bliss, can't wait to see it in summers.

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By Nancy Moy On August 28, 2018

Nice easy but scenic trail. Relaxing, handicap acessible

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