Black Lake
A breathtaking alpine lake in RMNP, surrounded by dramatic cliffs and fed by a waterfall. A rewarding hike for all seasons.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Beat the crowds & catch sunrise.
Black Lake
Best Time
Beat the crowds & catch sunrise.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
A breathtaking alpine lake in RMNP, surrounded by dramatic cliffs and fed by a waterfall. A rewarding hike for all seasons.
"Amazing hike with no crowds...."
🎯 Book Timed Entry Early
Essential for Bear Lake Road access. Book online in advance! :ticket:
🥾 Sturdy Hiking Boots Needed
Crucial for the trail, especially in winter. Be ready for snow! :athletic_shoe:
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
Black Lake's Dramatic Setting
Rocky Mountain National Park
A stunning alpine lake nestled beneath towering cliffs, fed by a waterfall. Truly magical.
Wildlife Encounters
Rocky Mountain National Park
Keep an eye out for majestic elk, moose, and even baby moose in their natural habitat.
Winter Wonderland Snowshoe
Rocky Mountain National Park
A challenging yet rewarding 10-mile round trip snowshoe adventure with solitude.
Sunrise Serenity
Rocky Mountain National Park
Experience the golden light painting the peaks and lakes in a peaceful, early morning glow.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Timed Entry Reservations are Key
Best Footwear for the Trail
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
🎯 Book Timed Entry Early
Essential for Bear Lake Road access. Book online in advance! :ticket:
🥾 Sturdy Hiking Boots Needed
Crucial for the trail, especially in winter. Be ready for snow! :athletic_shoe:
📸 Capture the Scenery
Bring your camera for stunning lake views and potential wildlife. :camerawithflash:
💧 Pack Plenty of Water
Stay hydrated on this moderate to challenging hike. :droplet:
Tips
from all over the internet
🎯 Book Timed Entry Early
Essential for Bear Lake Road access. Book online in advance! :ticket:
🥾 Sturdy Hiking Boots Needed
Crucial for the trail, especially in winter. Be ready for snow! :athletic_shoe:
📸 Capture the Scenery
Bring your camera for stunning lake views and potential wildlife. :camerawithflash:
💧 Pack Plenty of Water
Stay hydrated on this moderate to challenging hike. :droplet:
🦌 Respect Wildlife
Maintain a safe distance from elk and moose. Never feed them. :deer:
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors consistently praise Black Lake for its breathtaking scenery and the rewarding hike. Many highlight the dramatic cliffs, waterfall, and the sense of accomplishment upon reaching the lake. It's also noted as a great spot for wildlife viewing and a peaceful winter snowshoe adventure. Some find the hike moderate, while others note it can be challenging, especially in winter conditions.
"I hiked up here about a decade ago and loved it just went up with my entire family, including my nine and 10 year-old kids. Thto They feel very accomplished and so do I."
John Milroy
"Great Day Hike in RMNP. Quiet and solitude. Amazing views. Moderate Hike"
Mitchell Hansen
"Amazing hike with no crowds...."
Imran Shafique
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
To reach Black Lake, you'll need to drive Bear Lake Road. Access to this road requires a timed entry permit during peak season. The hike typically starts from the Bear Lake Trailhead or can be accessed via a longer route from the Glacier Gorge Trailhead. +1
Parking at the Bear Lake Trailhead is extremely limited and fills up very early. It's highly recommended to use the park's shuttle system or secure a timed entry permit that includes vehicle access.
Yes, Rocky Mountain National Park offers a shuttle system that services the Bear Lake Road corridor, making it a convenient way to access trailheads like the one for Black Lake.
The hike to Black Lake from Bear Lake Trailhead is approximately 1.8 miles one-way, making it a moderate 3.6-mile round trip. However, if you extend your hike from Glacier Gorge, it can be longer.
The hike to Black Lake is generally considered moderate. It involves some elevation gain but is manageable for most hikers with reasonable fitness. Winter snowshoeing, however, is a more challenging 10-mile round trip.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
Yes, a timed entry permit is required to drive Bear Lake Road, which is necessary to access the trailhead for Black Lake during peak operating hours. Book this well in advance.
Rocky Mountain National Park is generally open 24/7, but access to specific areas like Bear Lake Road is controlled by timed entry permits during certain seasons and hours. Always check the official NPS website for current restrictions.
There is an entrance fee for Rocky Mountain National Park, typically per vehicle. You can purchase passes online or at park entrance stations.
You cannot drive to the Bear Lake Trailhead without a timed entry permit that includes Bear Lake Road access. However, if you are hiking from outside the park or using a shuttle that doesn't require a specific road permit, you might be able to access trails. It's best to confirm with NPS.
Some park passes, like the America the Beautiful Pass, may cover the park entrance fee, but you will still likely need to secure a separate timed entry reservation for Bear Lake Road.
🎫 🏞️ Onsite Experience
Black Lake is renowned for its dramatic setting, surrounded by sheer cliffs and fed by a beautiful waterfall. It's a picturesque alpine lake offering stunning views and a sense of accomplishment.
While the water in Black Lake is incredibly clear and inviting, it is an alpine lake and extremely cold year-round. Swimming is possible but not for the faint of heart!
You have a good chance of spotting elk, mule deer, and potentially moose in the meadows and forests around Black Lake. Keep a safe distance and enjoy the sightings. +1
Yes, the hike to Black Lake is a great option for families with older children who can handle a moderate hike. It offers a rewarding destination and a sense of achievement.
Wear comfortable hiking shoes or boots with good traction. Layers are recommended as mountain weather can change quickly. Bring rain gear and sun protection.
📸 📸 Photography Tips
Sunrise offers magical golden light on the peaks, while late afternoon can provide beautiful soft light. Midday can be harsh, but the dramatic cliffs still make for compelling shots.
A wide-angle lens is great for capturing the expansive mountain scenery. A telephoto lens is useful for wildlife photography. Don't forget a sturdy tripod for low-light conditions.
The area around the lake itself offers numerous vantage points. The waterfall feeding the lake is also a popular subject. Experiment with different angles to capture the scale of the surrounding peaks.
Drone usage is restricted in Rocky Mountain National Park. Always check the latest regulations with the National Park Service before flying a drone.
Clear days offer stunning blue skies and reflections. Overcast or foggy conditions can create a moody, atmospheric scene, especially with the surrounding peaks.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
❄️ Winter Adventurers
📸 Photography Enthusiasts
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
The Hike to Black Lake: A Journey Through RMNP
For those seeking a more strenuous adventure or a different perspective, the hike can be extended from the Glacier Gorge Trailhead. This route often includes visits to Mills Lake and Jewel Lake before reaching Black Lake, offering a more immersive experience of the park's diverse landscapes. Regardless of the starting point, the final approach to Black Lake reveals its breathtaking setting, with sheer cliffs rising dramatically around its pristine waters.
Winter hiking to Black Lake transforms the experience into a challenging 10-mile round trip snowshoe. This offers a unique opportunity for solitude and to witness the park's frozen beauty. However, be prepared for potential postholing and variable snow conditions.
Wildlife Wonders of Rocky Mountain National Park
Moose are also present, though often more elusive. Seeing a moose, particularly a mother with her young calves, is an unforgettable experience. Remember to always maintain a safe and respectful distance from all wildlife. Never feed them, as this can harm their health and alter their natural behavior.
Other common sightings include mule deer, various bird species, and smaller mammals. The diverse habitats within the park support a rich ecosystem, making every hike a potential wildlife encounter. Always be aware of your surroundings and enjoy the privilege of sharing these wild spaces.
Capturing the Essence of Black Lake: Photography Guide
Midday can be challenging due to harsh sunlight, but the sheer scale of the cliffs and the vibrant turquoise of the water can still create striking images. Experiment with different angles to emphasize the dramatic drop-offs and the waterfall feeding the lake. A wide-angle lens is invaluable for capturing the grandeur of the entire scene, while a telephoto lens is perfect for isolating wildlife or details in the landscape.
For those venturing out in winter, the snow-covered landscape offers a completely different photographic palette. The stark contrast between the white snow, dark pines, and the frozen lake can be incredibly dramatic. Remember to protect your gear from the cold and moisture, and consider a tripod for sharper images in low light conditions.
Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit