Bierstadt Lake

Bierstadt Lake with mountain views

NPS

• Distance: 2 miles one-way
• Elevation Gain: 290 feet (from Bear Lake Trailhead)
• Trail Type: Out and Back 

Enjoy scenic mountain views at Bierstadt Lake. There are several ways to access Bierstadt Lake. Starting from Bear Lake Trailhead is more of the easier and more popular ways to hike to Bierstadt Lake. Many hikers prefer to start their hike at Bear Lake and come out at Bierstadt Lake Trailhead, located on Bear Lake Road. 
 
Named after Albert Bierstadt, an artist who admired the lake in the 1870s. It's a hidden gem within the Bear Lake Corridor! This lake sits atop a forested moraine, a ridge composed of material left behind thousands of years ago by receding glaciers. It is a shallow lake that holds melting snow and rainwater – no streams flow in or out. Be on the lookout for lily pads, amphibians, waterfowl, and mosquitos!

Use a trail map to help navigate to Bierstadt Lake. There are several trails that intersect near this destination. Pay attention to where you are as you are leaving Bierstadt Lake. There are trails that will take you back to Park & Ride, Bierstadt Lake Trailhead, and Bear Lake.

Enjoy fantastic views of the Continental Divide. If hiking up from Bierstadt Lake Trailhead, there are steep switchbacks. Take your time as you hike up and down the trail.

Help keep wildlife wild. Never approach or feed wildlife. Animals that learn people are a source of food can become aggressive or stop hunting or foraging on their own. Keep your distance - it's the law! You could be hurt or issued a fine.

Details

Duration

3-5 Hours

Activity

Hiking

Pets Allowed

No

Pets are prohibited on all hiking trails in Rocky Mountain National Park. 

Activity Fee

No

Entrance fees may apply, see Fees & Passes information.

Location

Bierstadt Lake

Accessed from several trails within the Bear Lake Road Corridor, Bierstadt Lake offers incredible scenic views and wildlife viewing opportunities. Many hikers prefer to start from Bear Lake Trailhead and end their hike at Bierstadt Lake Trailhead, located on Bear Lake Road.

Reservations

Yes

Depending upon what time you enter the park, you might need a Timed Entry + Bear Lake Road Reservation. To learn more, visit the park's Timed Entry Permit Reservation webpage at https://www.nps.gov/romo/planyourvisit/timed-entry-permit-system.htm

Accessibility Information

All trails that lead to Bierstadt Lake have uneven, dirt surfaces. The elevation gain ranges depending on which trail you are on. From Bear Lake, the elevation gain is 290 feet. The trail from Bierstadt Lake Trailhead or Park & Ride is very steep, with an elevation gain of approximately 782 feet.