Bear Creek Trail and Bruin Bluff Trail (Lair O’ the Bear Park)
Updated on May 12, 2011 by Mary Norton
Difficulty
EasyTrail Length
1 mile loop (Bear Creek Trail) 1.9 mile loop (Bruin Bluff)Trail Description
A nice easy loop hike at the Lair O’ the Bear Park starts at the parking lot and follows the Bear Creek Trail west, then go left over the bridge to Castor Cutoff Trail to Bruin Bluff Trail, and then go left over the Ouzel bridge to Bear Creek Trail again. Grab a map at the parking lot for a personal trail map.
This loop trail follows Bear Creek under huge cottonwood trees to a wood planked bridge.
It is a pleasant hike, shaded in areas, slightly uphill through pine trees along the side of a grassy meadow with views of the canyon and the creek. It is a good loop trail within the park where you can experience a little bit of the various micro climates of the park (creek, pine forest, canyon views, grassy meadow).
For a more challenging hike, you may like the Bruin Bluff Trail that moves up over the top of the hill/side of the canyon (1.9 miles loop trail).
One thing to keep in mind is that this park is very crowded on weekends so come on a weekday or early morning to avoid crowds. There are picnic pavillions and grills available along the creekside too.
Directions
Click Map Below: Take C-470 toward Morrison. Exit Morrison and go west on State Hwy 74 for about 4 miles. Park entrance will be on your left with a wooden gate over the entrance.Attractions
Dip your feet in the creek. Or take you fishing rod. There are grill pits for a family BBQ too.About Mary Norton, Contributor of this Hike
Mary grew up here, so she knows all the best places to go! With a family of 5 children and no lack of enthusiasm for the outdoors, Mary is well qualified to give you tips and hike spots that will challenge you as well as delight your whole family. Whether you have kids, dogs, or are just looking to enjoy nature by yourself, Mary will show you where to go to find what you are looking for.
