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
© OpenMapTiles © OpenStreetMap contributors
Tours to Bear Lake
Bear Lake reviews
-
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 »
-
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 »
-
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 trip
A complete day by day itinerary
based on your preferencesCustomize it
Refine your trip. 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.
Popular things to do in Rocky Mountain National Park
Nature in Rocky Mountain National Park
Trails in Rocky Mountain National Park
Hidden gems in Rocky Mountain National Park
Nearby attractions in Rocky Mountain National Park
Historic Sites in Rocky Mountain National Park
Trips to Bear Lake by other users
4 days in Fort Collins
BY A USER FROM UNITED STATES
1883 Water Works
Horsetooth Mountain Open Space
Veteran's Plaza of Northern Colorado
5 days in Fort Collins
BY A USER FROM UNITED STATES
Annual Flower Trial Garden
Odell Brewing Company
New Belgium Brewing Company
6 days in Fort Collins
BY A USER FROM UNITED STATES
City Park
Cache La Poudre River
Pineridge Natural Area
6 days in Fort Collins
BY A USER FROM UNITED STATES
Horse & Dragon Brewing Company
Fort Collins Brewery
New Belgium Brewing Company