Trip Planner:   Rocky Mountain National Park  /  Bear Lake

Bear Lake, Rocky Mountain National Park

4.7
#1 of 47 in Parks in Rocky Mountain National Park
Must see · Water Body · Nature / Park
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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Tours to Bear Lake

FROM $139 BOOK WITH VIATOR Hiking Adventure in Rocky Mountain National Park from Denver
4.9
Duration: 8 hours
Tours from $139 »
FROM $266 BOOK WITH VIATOR Private day tour from Denver to Estes Park and Rocky Mountain National Park.
Duration: 9 hours
Tours from $266 »
FROM $135 BOOK WITH VIATOR Private Sunset Photo Safari in RMNP - Estes Park - Opts: Landscape or Wildlife
Duration: 4 hours
Tours from $135 »

Bear Lake reviews

Rate this attraction
TripAdvisor traveler rating
TripAdvisor traveler rating 4.5
1,622 reviews
Google
4.8
TripAdvisor
  • By Michele P
    Second time here, and again perfect winter wonderland views! COLD and beautiful, we walked ON the lake this time, as it was completely frozen over. First time for me!!! What gorgeous views! A must!!!  more »
  • By 358leanng
    If you go mid week in the winter there seemed to be ample parking (unlike other times of the year). Bear Lake itself is very easy to access but the best views are up the trail at Dream Lake and...  more »
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Google
  • By Music Bravo
    Family camping trip and this place is gorgeous and Awesome! Toilets well maintained
  • By Chris Canoles
    Awesome family friendly hike around the lake with several great picture spots and places to explore.
See more on Google »

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