Bear Lake Road ends 9.2 miles from the junction with Trail Ridge Road at the Parking Area for Bear Lake. From the parking area, take a short walk on a marked path to reach Bear Lake itself. Bear Lake offers spectacular scenic views of Bear Lake, Hallett Peak and the surrounding mountain peaks.

Due to the popularity of this destination, Bear Lake Parking Area fills early in the day, often by 10 a.m each day. This is especially true 7-days a week during the summer, as well as on weekends and holidays throughout the year.

The Bear Lake Trailhead is a gateway to many popular high elevation hiking destinations in Rocky Mountain National Park, including the Bear Lake Loop, Dream Lake, Emerald Lake, Mills Lake, Odessa Lake, Flattop Mountain and more!