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.
Create an itinerary including Bear Lake
Unable to display map at this time. Please try again later.
© OpenMapTiles © OpenStreetMap contributors
Tours to Bear Lake
Bear Lake reviews
-
The Bear Lake trails made up our favorite hike at RMNP. We went to the trails our first day and could not find a parking spot at the trailhead so we decided to hike other potions of the park. We went.... more »
-
Friday, October 2nd my husband and I visited the park. We had to get a timed entry pass to get in and our time was 12:00. We headed right for Bear Lake. Couldn't even get there because the signs... more »
-
Family camping trip and this place is gorgeous and Awesome! Toilets well maintained
-
Awesome family friendly hike around the lake with several great picture spots and places to explore.
Plan your trip to Rocky Mountain National Park
Get a personalized plan
A complete day by day itinerary
based on your preferencesCustomize it
Refine your plan. We'll find the
best routes and schedulesBook it
Choose from the best hotels
and activities. Up to 50% offManage it
Everything in one place.
Everyone on the same page.
