Bierstadt Lake
A serene alpine lake hike in RMNP, offering stunning mountain views and a peaceful escape from crowds.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Beat the crowds and heat
Bierstadt Lake
Best Time
Beat the crowds and heat
Highlights
Must-see attractions
A serene alpine lake hike in RMNP, offering stunning mountain views and a peaceful escape from crowds.
"A beautiful and quiet hike with breathtaking views, a must-do in Rocky Mountain National Park."
🚗 Use the Park Shuttle
Parking is limited; the park shuttle is a great way to access trailheads like Bear Lake.
❄️ Microspikes for Spring
Spring hikes can be icy and snowy; microspikes are essential for traction.
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
Bierstadt Lake
Rocky Mountain National Park
A serene alpine lake surrounded by pine forests, offering peaceful reflections and a less crowded alternative to Bear Lake.
+1
Continental Divide Views
Along the Bierstadt Lake Loop Trail
Enjoy picturesque panoramas of the surrounding peaks and the majestic Continental Divide.
Wildlife Sightings
Rocky Mountain National Park
Keep an eye out for elk, moose, and various bird species, especially during dawn and dusk.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Timed Entry & Parking
+1Trail Conditions & Gear
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
🚗 Use the Park Shuttle
Parking is limited; the park shuttle is a great way to access trailheads like Bear Lake.
❄️ Microspikes for Spring
Spring hikes can be icy and snowy; microspikes are essential for traction.
💧 Pack Plenty of Water
Stay hydrated, especially at higher altitudes. Bring more than you think you'll need.
📸 Capture the Views
The lake and surrounding peaks offer incredible photo opportunities.
Tips
from all over the internet
🚗 Use the Park Shuttle
Parking is limited; the park shuttle is a great way to access trailheads like Bear Lake.
❄️ Microspikes for Spring
Spring hikes can be icy and snowy; microspikes are essential for traction.
💧 Pack Plenty of Water
Stay hydrated, especially at higher altitudes. Bring more than you think you'll need.
📸 Capture the Views
The lake and surrounding peaks offer incredible photo opportunities.
🥾 Sturdy Hiking Boots
Essential for navigating varied terrain and potential snow or ice.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors praise Bierstadt Lake for its beauty and relative tranquility compared to other popular spots in Rocky Mountain National Park. The hike is considered moderately challenging but rewarding, with stunning lake and mountain views. Some reviewers noted the trail can be steep and icy in spring, requiring proper gear.
"Beautiful and challenging hike in the spring. The trail up was half snow covered and microspikes were required in certain areas. Many switch backs going up. Breathtaking views on the way up to the lake. Lake was still frozen 4/26/23."
Rebecca McMahon
"We've been visiting the park for about 10 years now and never tried this lake till last year.
The hike always seemed too much as we have small kids with us so we almost always opt for easy lakes in the area. We decided to do this one day and we had 4 kids. 9, 7, 2 and a 1 year old. This was in the summer 2020 when the national park was open with reservation during the pandemic.
We were cooped up for 4 months in a row so wanted to enjoy nature. I'm not sure how or if crowded during normal time but it wasn't when we went. There was maybe 3 families including us spread around the lake.
I had a baby carrier for our infant and our 3 year old did the whole hike by himself. We took few pauses to enjoy the valley view as we crept up following the winding path.
Once you get to the top is a pretty flat top wooded area around the lake. The lake is a little further in so you aren't done when you reach the top but it's a breeze from there.
You wonder regret it. Wasn't crowded like bear lake usually is. Saw some fish in the lake and lots of beautiful ducks as well.
And it's a great view and it so quiet. Definitely recommend."
Mal- Kay
"1.2mile hike, elevation of around 170m , it’s very quiet and less visited place , so you can spend some quality time."
nihit chaudhary
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
You can access Bierstadt Lake via the Bierstadt Lake Trailhead or by taking the park shuttle from the Bear Lake Road Park & Ride to the Bear Lake Trailhead and hiking to Bierstadt Lake. The latter allows you to hike down to the Bierstadt Lake Trailhead and catch the shuttle back.
Parking at trailheads, especially near Bear Lake Road, is extremely limited and fills up very early. Using the park shuttle is highly recommended.
The park shuttle system is the most convenient way to navigate between popular trailheads and areas like Bear Lake Road, especially during peak season.
You can drive to the Bierstadt Lake Trailhead, but parking is very scarce. Access to the Bear Lake Road Corridor, where many trailheads are located, often requires a timed entry permit.
Yes, vault toilet restrooms are available at both the Bear Lake Trailhead and the Bierstadt Lake Trailhead.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
Yes, during peak season (late May to mid-October), you will likely need a timed entry permit for the Bear Lake Road Corridor in addition to the park entrance fee. Book these on Recreation.gov.
Park entrance fees vary depending on the pass type (e.g., 1-day, 7-day). Check the official Rocky Mountain National Park website for current pricing.
Timed entry permits are typically required for the Bear Lake Road Corridor from late May through mid-October, usually from 5 AM to 6 PM. Always check the park's official website for the most up-to-date information. +1
While some entrance passes can be purchased at park entrance stations, it's highly recommended to purchase them in advance online to ensure entry, especially during busy periods.
A park entrance pass grants you access to the park, while a timed entry permit is an additional reservation required for specific areas like Bear Lake Road during certain times to manage visitor numbers.
🎫 🥾 Onsite Experience
The Bierstadt Lake Loop is a moderate 3.2-mile loop trail with about 500 feet of elevation gain. It offers beautiful forest scenery and leads to the tranquil Bierstadt Lake.
The hike is generally considered moderate due to switchbacks and elevation gain. It's manageable for families with older children or those who are moderately fit.
Wear comfortable hiking shoes or boots. Layers are recommended as weather can change quickly. In spring, microspikes are advised due to snow and ice.
Bierstadt Lake is generally less crowded than nearby Bear Lake, offering a more peaceful experience, especially if you hike during off-peak hours.
While some visitors have taken a dip, the water is extremely cold, even in summer. It's not a typical swimming destination but can be refreshing for the brave.
📸 📸 Photography
The lake itself offers beautiful reflections, especially on calm mornings. The surrounding pine forests and mountain vistas along the trail also provide excellent photographic opportunities.
Early morning for sunrise and soft light, or late afternoon for golden hour can yield stunning results. However, be mindful of timed entry and parking.
You might encounter elk, moose, deer, and various bird species. Always maintain a safe distance and use a zoom lens for wildlife photography. +1
Drones are generally prohibited in Rocky Mountain National Park to protect wildlife and preserve the visitor experience. Check park regulations for specifics.
A versatile lens (like a 24-70mm) is great for landscapes and wildlife. A wide-angle lens can capture the expansive mountain views. Don't forget extra batteries and memory cards.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
Tips for families: Pack plenty of snacks and water, as there are no services along the trail. Consider using a child carrier for very young children. Arrive early to secure parking or utilize the park shuttle. The less crowded nature of Bierstadt Lake compared to Bear Lake can make for a more relaxed family outing.
🏞️ Day-Trippers from Denver
To make the most of your day, plan your visit around the timed entry permit system and aim for an early start to beat crowds and secure parking. The Bierstadt Lake Loop is a manageable hike for a day trip, allowing you time to enjoy the lake and scenic views before heading back to Denver. Consider combining it with a drive along Trail Ridge Road if time permits.
+1📸 Photography Enthusiasts
+1Best times for photos are typically sunrise and sunset for soft, golden light. However, be prepared for variable weather, which can add dramatic elements to your shots. Wildlife photography is also popular, so bring a zoom lens. Remember to always respect wildlife and maintain a safe distance.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
The Bierstadt Lake Loop Trail
The trail winds through beautiful pine forests and open meadows, providing glimpses of the surrounding peaks. As you ascend, you'll encounter switchbacks that can be steep at times, contributing to its moderate rating. The payoff is reaching the serene Bierstadt Lake, which is nestled in a wooded area, offering a peaceful atmosphere often less crowded than its famous neighbor, Bear Lake.
Trail conditions can vary significantly. In spring, expect snow and ice, making microspikes a necessity for safe passage. Summer offers clearer paths but can be hot, so early morning hikes are recommended. Fall brings vibrant autumn colors to the surrounding landscape, though the immediate area around the lake is primarily evergreen. Always check current trail conditions before your visit.
Navigating Rocky Mountain National Park
+1To circumvent parking challenges and reduce traffic congestion, the park operates a free shuttle system. The shuttle is an excellent way to access trailheads, including the Bierstadt Lake Trailhead, by first taking it to the Bear Lake Trailhead. This allows you to enjoy hikes like the Bierstadt Lake Loop by starting at Bear Lake and descending to the Bierstadt Lake Trailhead, where you can catch the shuttle back to the Park & Ride.
When planning your visit, be aware of the changing weather conditions. High-altitude environments are prone to rapid weather shifts. Always pack layers, including rain gear, even on sunny days. For spring and early summer visits, be prepared for snow and ice on trails, and consider bringing microspikes for added traction.
Wildlife Encounters
While observing wildlife is a highlight for many, it's crucial to maintain a safe and respectful distance. Never feed wild animals, as this can harm their health and alter their natural behavior. Use binoculars or a zoom lens to get clear photos without disturbing the animals. Remember that these are wild animals, and their behavior can be unpredictable.
Other common sightings include deer, marmots, and a variety of bird species. Keep your eyes peeled as you hike; you never know what you might encounter in this stunning natural habitat.
Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit