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Streams rush beside Bear Lake Road as it winds through Glacier Basin. Enclosed in Rocky Mountain National Park, the route climbs toward Flattop Mountain for marvelous vistas of the range. Wildflowers light green meadows with a rainbow of colorful blossoms in the summer, and fall’s aspen leaves turn gold before giving way to a spectacular winter wonderland.
This scenic drive through Rocky Mountain National Park culminates at the nature trail at Bear Lake, a half-mile loop. Flat terrain with gently rolling hills makes this an easy trek, best explored by snowshoe in winter. Hikers can also tackle nearby Emerald Lake’s moderate trail, 1.9 miles each way. The enchanting lake is framed by craggy peaks and towering pines.
