Bear Lake Trailhead

Welcome to the Bear Lake Trailhead, unquestionably the beating heart of recreation and exploration within Rocky Mountain National Park. As you step out of your vehicle or disembark from the shuttle bus, you are immediately…

Before we ascend into the rugged gorge, we must first turn our attention to the namesake of this trailhead: Bear Lake itself. This pristine body of water is easily accessible via a flat, compacted dirt loop that measures…

We now depart the gentle confines of Bear Lake and begin our ascent into Tyndall Gorge, tracking the path toward the higher alpine lakes. This initial segment of the trail represents a shift in physical exertion. …

Our first reward on this upward trek is the enchanting Nymph Lake, situated at an elevation of nine thousand, six hundred and ninety-eight feet. Located just a half mile from the trailhead, Nymph Lake feels like a gentle,…

Following a steeper, more strenuous half-mile ascent over stone steps and short climbs, we cross a narrow log bridge over Tyndall Creek and arrive at the spectacularly named Dream Lake. The transition is palpable. …

We now embark on the final, most arduous half-mile section of the trek. The trail past Dream Lake pitches upward sharply, demanding careful navigation over steep, rocky sections and constructed stairs. …

Retracing our steps down to the eastern shore of Dream Lake, we encounter a trail junction leading south. We turn away from the main corridor and begin an ascent toward Chaos Canyon and our final destination: Lake Haiyaha. …

As we begin our descent back toward the Bear Lake Trailhead, let us reflect on the profound journey we have undertaken through the Tyndall and Chaos Gorges. The physical fatigue in your legs and the deep breaths required by the…