Bear Creek Lake Trail

Difficulty
This reflects the 10Adventures difficulty rating for each route. We aim to keep ratings consistent across regions.
Moderate
Duration
This reflects the estimated time the majority of users will take on this trail. If you are slower, add time to the top-end figure. If you are fast, then you may complete this route faster than this time range.
3.5-4.5h
Distance
This reflects the return distance of this route as measured by the GPS file.
15.1 km
Elevation
This reflects the total elevation gained throughout this route as measured by the GPS file. This includes all ascents and descents, and is higher than what is quoted in most route guides, which simply measure the distance between the starting-point and high-point of the route.
212 m
User Ratings
These ratings are completed by users who have completed this trail and not subject to reviews by 10Adventures.
Be the first to add a review!
Directions to Trailhead

The Bear Creek Lake Trail is a great nature walk located within the town of Morrison, Colorado. This lovely trail will guide hikers into the Bear Creek Lake Park, which is laden with greenspaces and vibrant aspen trees. Ideal for hikers, runners, and bikers, this route attracts outdoor enthusiasts of all sorts.

Download the 10Adventures App

View Bear Creek Lake Trail on Map

View Map

Subscribe to our newsletter

Get a weekly dose of discounts and inspiration for adventure lovers

Route Description for Bear Creek Lake Trail

The Bear Creek Trail is a go-to for many Denverites and Morrison locals. Without having to travel far, hikers can enjoy a lovely nature trail near their home base. This path reveals sights of the Front Range foothills, the red sandstone ridges, and views of the cityscape. The initial section of this path travels alongside a busy road, so be prepared for some noise! The ruckus doesn’t last long because the path will open into the park, rewarding hikers with the greenspace oasis and shimmering lake.

Beginning from the trailhead, track the Bear Creek Trail alongside the roads, nestled between towering ridges. Follow this path along the creek and over the highway before entering the park. Once you enter the park, trek the Owl Trail east. You will eventually meet an intersection, turn left here and you will be diverted onto the Mount Carbon Loop Trail. Hike this path through the coverage of golden aspens and towering pines. As you travel further into the park there will be several merging and intersecting paths, make sure to keep along the Mount Carbon Loop Trail. Trek along the babbling creek before you will be guided up an exposed, rocky ridge. Hike along the ridge, which reveals sights of the lake and borders a golf course (keep an ear out for the word “fore”).

Ascend the ridge and you will be led up to the summit of Mount Carbon. Revel in the expansive views from atop the mountain and as you descend the peak you will be guided along the shores of Bear Creek Lake. Follow the Mount Carbon Loop Trail back through the sparse tree coverage, away from the lake and past an archery range. Soon the route will deliver you back to the intersection with the Owl Trail. From here, take the Owl Trail left before merging back onto The Bear Creek Trail. Simply retrace your footing along this path all the way back to the trailhead.

Getting to the Bear Creek Lake Trail Trailhead

The Bear Creek Lake Trail departs from the trailhead and parking lot at the intersection of Union Ave and Bear Creek Ave in Morrison, CO.

Route Information

  • Backcountry Campground

    No

  • When to do

    Year-round

  • Pets allowed

    Yes - On Leash

  • Family friendly

    Older Children only

  • Route Signage

    Average

  • Crowd Levels

    High

  • Route Type

    Lollipop

Bear Creek Lake Trail Elevation Graph

Weather Forecast

Check Area Weather

Bear Creek Lake Trail Reviews

Add a comment

You must be logged in to post a comment.

Nearby Trails

Nearby Regions

Subscribe to our newsletter

Get a weekly dose of discounts and inspiration for adventure lovers

Tours

Routes

Blogs