Routes

Planner

Features

Updates

App

Get the App

Routes

Hiking trails & Routes

Bear Creek Trail

Hiking trails & Routes

Bear Creek Trail

Easy

3.3

(6)

hikers

Bear Creek Trail

Q: What is the difficulty level of this trail?

This specific route on the Bear Creek Trail is considered easy . While it features a significant descent of over 320 meters, the overall profile makes it manageable for most hikers.

Q: How long does it take to hike this route?

The estimated duration for this route is approximately 1 hour and 4 minutes, covering a distance of about 3.6 kilometers.

Q: What can I see along the way?

The trail offers several notable points of interest. You'll encounter the beautiful Bear Creek Falls and an Awesome view near Bear Creek Falls . You might also spot unique Stone Cairns in Uncompahgre National Forest .

Q: Is the Bear Creek Trail dog-friendly?

Generally, trails within Uncompahgre National Forest, including this one, are dog-friendly. However, dogs must be kept on a leash to protect wildlife and ensure a pleasant experience for all users. Always practice Leave No Trace principles.

Q: What is the best time of year to visit?

The trail is particularly beautiful in spring with wildflowers or in autumn for fall foliage. Summer offers pleasant hiking conditions, but be mindful of potential afternoon thunderstorms common in the Colorado mountains.

Q: Are there any permits or entrance fees required for the Uncompahgre National Forest?

No specific permits or entrance fees are typically required to hike the Bear Creek Trail within the Uncompahgre National Forest. However, always check the official US Forest Service website for the latest regulations before your visit, especially for group sizes or specific activities.

Q: What is the terrain like on this route?

This route is primarily a descent, traversing along canyon sides. While generally easy, sections can be uneven with small rocks. The trail offers dramatic views of Bear Creek below as you make your way down.

Q: Does this trail connect with other paths?

Yes, this route incorporates sections of other trails. You will find yourself on parts of the Wasatch Descent, Bear Creek, and Wasatch Trail during your hike.

Q: Where does the trail start and is there parking available?

The specific starting point for this Komoot tour is designed as a descent. While the exact trailhead for this particular route isn't detailed, Bear Creek Trail is located just south of Ouray, Colorado. Parking availability can vary, so it's advisable to check local Ouray resources for trailhead access and parking options.

Q: Is this trail suitable for families with children?

Given its 'easy' difficulty rating and manageable duration, this route is generally suitable for families with children who are accustomed to hiking. The scenic views and waterfall make it an enjoyable outing.

01:04

3.59km

Hiking

Embark on the Bear Creek Trail, an easy 2.2 miles (3.6 km) hiking route that offers a gentle escape into nature. You will experience minimal elevation gain, just 1 feet (0 metres), making it a very accessible walk for all skill levels. The trail winds through areas with aspen trees,…

Last updated: April 23, 2026

Tips

Your route passes through protected areas

Please check local regulations for:

Waypoints

Start point

Get Directions

0 m

Bear Creek Falls

Highlight • Waterfall

That's the purpose of the hike. A little bit of freshness it can't hurt.

Tip by

237 m

Awesome view near Bear Creek Falls

Highlight • Viewpoint

Shortly before you reach Bear Creek Waterfall, you have wonderful views. What to say? just enjoy.

Tip by

1.00 km

Stone Cairns in Uncompahgre National Forest

Highlight • Structure

Hikers had fun here creating cairns on a large rocky platform.

Tip by

2.38 km

Bear Creek Trail

Highlight • Trail

A meeting point where the forested Bear Creek Trail connects with the steeper Ballard climb. It’s a good spot to pause, refill energy, and decide whether to continue deeper into the canyon or push higher toward alpine views.

Tip by

3.59 km

End point

Way Types & Surfaces

Way Types

3.58 km

< 100 m

Surfaces

3.51 km

Elevation

Nothing selected – click and drag below to see the stats for a specific part of the route.

Weather

Today

Monday 25 May

12°C

5°C

59 %

Additional weather tips

Max wind speed: 16.0 km/h

to get more detailed weather forecasts along your route

This route was planned by komoot.

Navigate

Send to Phone

Save

Edit route

Download GPX

Move start point

Embed on a website

Report an Issue

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the difficulty level of this trail?

This specific route on the Bear Creek Trail is considered easy. While it features a significant descent of over 320 meters, the overall profile makes it manageable for most hikers.

How long does it take to hike this route?

The estimated duration for this route is approximately 1 hour and 4 minutes, covering a distance of about 3.6 kilometers.

What can I see along the way?

The trail offers several notable points of interest. You'll encounter the beautiful Bear Creek Falls and an Awesome view near Bear Creek Falls. You might also spot unique Stone Cairns in Uncompahgre National Forest.

Is the Bear Creek Trail dog-friendly?

Generally, trails within Uncompahgre National Forest, including this one, are dog-friendly. However, dogs must be kept on a leash to protect wildlife and ensure a pleasant experience for all users. Always practice Leave No Trace principles.

What is the best time of year to visit?

The trail is particularly beautiful in spring with wildflowers or in autumn for fall foliage. Summer offers pleasant hiking conditions, but be mindful of potential afternoon thunderstorms common in the Colorado mountains.

Are there any permits or entrance fees required for the Uncompahgre National Forest?

No specific permits or entrance fees are typically required to hike the Bear Creek Trail within the Uncompahgre National Forest. However, always check the official US Forest Service website for the latest regulations before your visit, especially for group sizes or specific activities.

What is the terrain like on this route?

This route is primarily a descent, traversing along canyon sides. While generally easy, sections can be uneven with small rocks. The trail offers dramatic views of Bear Creek below as you make your way down.

Does this trail connect with other paths?

Yes, this route incorporates sections of other trails. You will find yourself on parts of the Wasatch Descent, Bear Creek, and Wasatch Trail during your hike.

Where does the trail start and is there parking available?

The specific starting point for this Komoot tour is designed as a descent. While the exact trailhead for this particular route isn't detailed, Bear Creek Trail is located just south of Ouray, Colorado. Parking availability can vary, so it's advisable to check local Ouray resources for trailhead access and parking options.

Is this trail suitable for families with children?

Given its 'easy' difficulty rating and manageable duration, this route is generally suitable for families with children who are accustomed to hiking. The scenic views and waterfall make it an enjoyable outing.

What kind of views can I expect?

You can expect breathtaking vistas and panoramic views, especially of the valley and the surrounding mountains. The trail traverses along canyon sides, offering dramatic perspectives of Bear Creek below and the stunning Colorado landscape.