Bierstadt Lake Trail (Rocky Mountain National Park)

Trail Difficulty: Moderate+.

Trail Length:
2.4 miles round trip

Trail Description:
Rocky Mountain National Park offers so many hiking trails that you will be sure to get on at least one that really has it all!! The Bierstadt Lake trail is uphill to the top (1.2 miles). The gradual uphill climb is a workout, but well worth every switchback. There are fabulous views all the way. Rocky peaks, Aspen groves, grassy hills, wild flowers and at the end of the trail, a small lake.

The best part of this hike is that the lake is the perfect habitat for moose to hang out. We were fortunate enough to be there at the right time – a female moose was feeding on the grass in the lake!! What a treat!!

Restrooms available at trailhead.

Picnic Spot Recommendations:
The Lake at the end of the trail offers the best picnic area around. Views, water and wildlife!

Travel time:
Approximately 1 hour from Denver.

How to get there:
From Boulder, take Hwy 36 to Lyons. At Lyons, continue to follow Hwy 36 to Estes Park and the entrance to Rocky Mountain National Park. Hwy 36 goes right into the park at the Beaver Meadows Entrance (Visitor Center is a good stop to make too). From there you will get a map and follow Bear Lake Road to the Bierstadt Lake Trailhead. Begin your hike here.

Special Attractions:
Estes Park offers many small restaurants and shops to satisfy many tastes. We recommend the Estes Park Brewery http://www.epbrewery.net/. It is a unique microbrewery that offers good food and a unique atmosphere.