As one of the most visited and popular national parks, Colorado’s Rocky Mountain National Park is visited by more than three million people every year and features rugged trails. As its name suggests, this is a park with majestic peaks in all directions, with more than 2.5 miles (4,000 m) of land linked by winding roads, 300 miles (483 km) of trails bridging the Continental Divide, wildlife roaming the valleys, and some of the most breathtaking outdoor activities in the world. Rejoice in the fresh air and see panoramic views from Rocky Mountain National Park, which has 265,000 acres (107,000 hectares) of the most incredible high-altitude landscapes on the planet.
About the Park and Why It’s My #5 Choice
Beautiful scenery is abundant here, including mountains, trees, waterfalls, and lakes. This is a good place to hike if you have the entire day and enjoy a beautiful, scenic drive as well. I will definitely go back again in the future and stay longer to enjoy more of nature’s beauty. Don’t miss this place for anything; it is one of the most beautiful national parks I have been to in the US! I highly recommend it. You probably will want to spend the whole day here, and if you have the option to, you should also camp. There are a few restaurants nearby and a gift shop. The road is safe and easy to navigate. There are restrooms everywhere, and you can see many animals around the park. Come and visit during the spring or summer!
History of the Park
The Rocky Mountain National Park was established on January 26, 1915. The wilderness designation was granted on December 22, 1980, and the park was named a Biosphere Reserve in 1976.
Where is Rocky Mountain National Park?
Rocky Mountain National Park is located in northern Colorado. It encompasses mountains, forests, and alpine tundra and spans the Continental Divide. It is popular for the Ridge Road Trail and the Old Fall River Road through aspen trees and rivers.
Best Time to Visit
The park is open to hikers 365 days a year and remains busy every day. If you are looking to explore a favorite hiking trail, or if you are searching for a new route to an adrenaline rush, Rocky Mountain National Park is unique and its varied landscapes offer a fun-filled experience. You can also visit the park for sport activities anytime.
Best Day Hike in Rocky Mountain National Park – Bear Lake
Bear Lake offers the easiest hiking trail for beginners. It is easy, quick, and won’t take much time.
QUICK FACTS
- Location: At the very end of Bear Lake Road. Northern Colorado.
- Distance: 1 mile (1.6 km)
- Time: 30 minutes
- Difficulty: Easy
- Route: Round trip
- Track Quality: Excellent loop road
- Hazards: Thunderstorms
- Elevation: 20 ft (6 m)
- Wet Feet: No
- Toilets: Accessible Vault toilets at east end of visitor center.
- Mobile Coverage: No
- Updates on trail conditions and closures.
HIKE DETAILS
This is one of the most popular hikes in Rocky National Park, as it is very approachable. The hike is short, making it accessible for all ages and ability levels. Bear Lake Trail is a gravel trail for most of its distance.
Full Track Description
The Bear Lake Trails lead to Bear Lake which is considered the epicenter of the Rocky Mountains National Park. This means that you can access other trails from there, but it also means encountering lots of traffic on the way. I recommend getting there early on weekdays and also go during the off-season if you have the time.
As stated earlier, the Bear Lake Trail is a nice, short, loop walk surrounding a beautiful lake with semi-challenging terrain and lovely views of the Rocky Mountain National Park. As you move along the trail, there are benches and resting places for hikers with an opportunity for scenic peak views. This trail is relatively flat, with an average grade of 0 to 4 percent and a maximum of 16 percent for a short distance. The surface of the trail is full of packed dirt and some rocks. There is a shuttle bus stop and ranger station at the trailhead at the end of Bear Lake Road for an easy and safe hiking experience.
Things to Note
This trail is not paved, but is considered handicap accessible.
