Bear Lake is a scenic trailhead and destination in Rocky Mountain National Park. Sitting at an elevation of 9,450 feet (2,880 m), the alpine lake rests beneath the sheer flanks of Hallett Peak and the Continental Divide at 40°18′48″N 105°38′54″W / 40.31324°N 105.648222°W / 40.31324; -105.648222. Several trails, from easy strolls to strenuous hikes, start from the lake. The Bear Lake Road is open year-round, though it may temporarily close due to adverse weather conditions. An ample parking lot is provided close to the lake. The Bear Lake Road is approximately 10 miles (16 km) long and starts close to the Beaver Meadows Entrance station of the Rocky Mountain National Park.

The lake was formed during the ice age by a big chunk of ice. Several moraines can be found downhill of Bear Lake.

At an elevation of 9500 ft (2896 m), Bear Lake has a humid continental climate (Köppen Dfb), closely bordering on a subalpine climate (Köppen Dfc).