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RMNP - Bear Lake TH

Trip

Hiking – RMNP - Bear Lake TH - Odessa Lake

This is a hike for women to Odessa Lake in Rocky Mountain National Park near Estes Park, CO. The trail is a ~9‑mile round‑trip trek with a gain of roughly 2,000 ft to an alpine lake surrounded by beautiful rock formations in RMNP!

Contacts

Lauren Barden
Lauren Barden
Primary Leader
  • Sun, Nov 30, 2025
  • Denver
  • Hiking
  • Adults
  • Moderate
  • Mileage: 8.5 mi
  • Elevation Gain: 2,000 ft
  • Pace: 1.8 mph

This is a hike for women and non-binary friends who are looking to challenge themselves in good company. We’ll take on a beautiful but challenging route through RMNP, ending at the stunning Odessa Lake. Expect breathtaking views, meaningful connections, and space to push yourself at your own pace.

Whether you’re building confidence or just craving the mountains, this hike is for you.

If you have any questions or concerns, please don’t hesitate to reach out. I’m here to support you!

We’ll meet bright and early on Sunday at 6:00 AM at the Sheridan Park-and-Ride (off of US 36). From there, we’ll carpool to Rocky Mountain NP, arriving at the trailhead after about a 1.5 hr drive.

The hike itself is approximately 8.5 miles round-trip with just about 2,000 feet of elevation gain. Expect forested paths with steady elevation gain and a nice lunch with a good overlook. We'll take breaks along the way for water, snacks, and photos—no rush, just steady progress.

After returning to the trailhead, there is an option to stop for a warm drink (my favorite winter hike tradition) before heading back to Denver.

If you have any questions, don’t hesitate to reach out to your trip leader—I'm here to support you!

Route/Place

RMNP - Bear Lake TH

Roster
Required Equipment

Required Equipment

Required Equipment

Please come prepared with the Ten Essentials for safety and comfort in changing mountain conditions:

  1. Navigation – map, compass, or GPS (can be a downloaded trail map on your phone)

  2. Sun protection – sunglasses, sunscreen, lip balm

  3. Insulation – an extra layer (it can get chilly at higher elevations)

  4. Illumination – headlamp or flashlight

  5. First aid supplies

  6. Fire – lighter or waterproof matches

  7. Repair kit and tools – small multi-tool or knife

  8. Nutrition – snacks and lunch

  9. Hydration – at least 2 liters of water

  10. Emergency shelter – space blanket or lightweight tarp

Additional suggestions:

  • Microspikes if you have them 

  • Comfortable hiking shoes or boots

  • Trekking poles (optional but helpful for elevation)

  • Rain jacket or windbreaker

  • Hat and gloves 

  • Small backpack

    If you are missing any of the ten essentials, don't hesitate to reach out.

Trip Reports