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

Water Body · Nature / Park

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The second-largest natural freshwater lake in Colorado, 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

1,666 reviews

Google

4.8

By huia

Judging from the amount of people and the need for reservations, Bear Lake is one of the most popular sites in RMNP and definitely worth a visit. The scenic path around the lake is relatively easy...

Judging from the amount of people and the need for reservations, Bear Lake is one of the most popular sites in RMNP and definitely worth a visit. The scenic path around the lake is relatively easy... more »
By Grover R

The day we had a pass to visit the Bear Lake area, the fog was so thick you really could not see anything. Still we were able to get a parking place in Glacier Gorge and up to the lakes. We walk...

The day we had a pass to visit the Bear Lake area, the fog was so thick you really could not see anything. Still we were able to get a parking place in Glacier Gorge and up to the lakes. We walk... more »

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Google

By yung-chin Chen

Beautiful lake. Must go for Rocky Mountain national park. The lake is not far from the road and is friendly for old people or handicap.

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By Ethan Chua

Easy walk near the trailhead entrance, and just steps from the shuttle stop and parking lot. Many fantastic viewing points to take photos of the lake, the surrounding mountains and, for a short time only, the amazing fall foliage.

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