Bierstadt Lake

Bierstadt Lake sits high in Rocky Mountain National Park, tucked into a wooded plateau surrounded by tall pines and framed by the Continental Divide. Named after the famed landscape painter Albert Bierstadt, this alpine lake delivers a quieter, more secluded experience than nearby Bear Lake, making it a favorite among hikers who want stunning mountain scenery without fighting crowds. The water is calm and still, reflecting the surrounding peaks on clear days, and the forested shoreline offers plenty of space to sit and take in the views.

The most popular route to Bierstadt Lake starts at the Bierstadt Lake Trailhead, covering about 1.2 miles with roughly 500 feet of elevation gain. The first mile climbs through exposed switchbacks with limited shade and an almost desert-like landscape, then levels off into a wide, tree-covered path that feels like walking through a wilderness postcard. An alternative and easier route begins at the Bear Lake Trailhead, which is mostly downhill on the way to Bierstadt and connects to the park shuttle system. Hikers can loop from Bear Lake down to Bierstadt Lake and catch the shuttle back from the Bierstadt Lake Trailhead to the Park and Ride, making for a satisfying one-way trek.

Fall is a standout season here, with incredible golden aspens lining the trail during late September and early October. Spring visitors should bring microspikes, as the trail can be half-covered in packed snow well into late April, and the lake itself may still be frozen. Summer offers the warmest conditions, though the exposed switchbacks on the Bierstadt Trailhead route can be taxing in midday heat. Wildlife sightings are common along the trail, with visitors reporting moose, ducks, and fish visible in the clear water.

Bierstadt Lake sits within the Bear Lake corridor, so a timed entry reservation is required during peak season. Vault toilet restrooms are available at both the Bear Lake Trailhead and the Bierstadt Lake Trailhead. The trail is suitable for families with young children who are comfortable with moderate elevation gain. Parking fills early at both trailheads, so arriving before 8 AM or using the park shuttle is strongly recommended. The best views of the lake come from the north shore looking south toward the mountain backdrop.