Are dogs allowed on Bear Lake Loop?

No, dogs are not permitted on Bear Lake Loop. This is typical in many national parks and wildlife refuges — check for a nearby dog-friendly alternative.

Do I need a permit to hike Bear Lake Loop?

No, Bear Lake Loop does not currently require a permit. Still check for seasonal closures or day-use fees with the managing agency before heading out.

How difficult is Bear Lake Loop?

Bear Lake Loop is rated easy. It is 0.8 miles long with 49 feet of elevation gain. Difficulty ratings reflect a combination of distance, elevation gain, and terrain — your experience will depend on your fitness level and trail conditions.

What is the best season to hike Bear Lake Loop?

Bear Lake Loop is best hiked in spring, summer, fall, and winter. Conditions vary year to year — check the trail status and weather forecast before your visit.

Is Bear Lake Loop suitable for kids?

Yes, Bear Lake Loop is considered kid-friendly. As always with children, bring water and snacks, pace yourself, and watch for weather changes and wildlife.

EasyLoop

Rocky Mountain National Park/Colorado

Bear Lake Loop

Estes Park, Colorado

0.8 mi

Distance

49 ft

Elev. Gain

18m

Est. Time

Loop

Route Type

Easy

Difficulty

About This Trail

Generated from trail data

Easy nature loop around scenic Bear Lake with views of Longs Peak, Hallett Peak, and Flattop Mountain reflected in the alpine lake. Paved and wheelchair accessible.

Trail Conditions

Open

Updated Apr 19, 2026 — may be out of date

No recent condition reports. Be the first to share what you see on the trail.

Hazards & Warnings

Wildlife encountersChanging weather

Elevation Profile

Min:9,452 ft

Max:9,538 ft

95 ft

Trail Details

No dogs
Kid-friendly

Route Type: Loop
Surface: Gravel

Official sources & verification

Managed by National Park Service

Verify before you go

Source of truth

National Park Service unit page
Alerts, conditions, and the unit's plan-your-visit page.

Verify by phone or mail

Operator:970-586-1206
Address:1000 US Hwy 36 · Estes Park, CO · 80517

Best Seasons

Spring Summer Fall Winter

Highlights

Mountain reflectionsAccessible trailWildlife viewingInterpretive signs

Reviews

No reviews yet

Be the first to share your experience and help others plan their visit.

Hand-curated

Hunt context

This trail crosses hunting units

During hunting seasons, wear blaze orange and check regulations — see the Colorado hunting page

Bear Lake Loop

About This Trail

Trail Conditions

Trail Conditions

Hazards & Warnings

Elevation Profile

Trail Details

Best Seasons

Highlights

Reviews

No reviews yet

This trail crosses hunting units

Nearby Trails

Emerald Lake Trail

Flattop Mountain Trail

Hallett Peak

Lake Haiyaha

Dream Lake Trail

Sky Pond Trail

Other trails in Rocky Mountain National Park

Sky Pond Trail

Emerald Lake Trail

Flattop Mountain Trail

Longs Peak via Keyhole Route

Chasm Lake Trail

Emerald Lake Trail

Campgrounds near this trail

Glacier Gorge Backcountry Campsite

Glacier Basin Campground

Over the Hill

Moraine Park Campground

East Portal Campground at Estes Park

Moraine Park - Rocky Mountain National Park

Similar trails in Colorado

Seven Bridges Trail

Chautauqua Trail

Palmer to Siamese Twins Trail

Sapphire Point Overlook Trail

Zapata Falls Trail

Siamese Twins Loop Trail