Bear Lake Trail (Fort Steele)

Site Description: The first part of this moderate trail ascends through the shade of the Engelmann spruce and subalpine fir forest. As the trail leaves the forest, you come upon a natural dam of white boulders, which holds the lake in its cirque valley and hides the outlet stream of Bear Lake. The lake is just over the rim of this natural dam. There is a primitive campsite at the lake. The route to the ridge continues along the north shore of the lake; through the meadow at the end of the lake and scrambles up a scree slope to a low pass to the east, which is visible from the lake. From the ridge, one looks down onto Rualt Lake and Summer Lake; east to Empire State Peak and Chrysler Peak; and south along the Hughes Range to Mount Rualt. Experienced route finders prepared for backpacking can continue onto Summer Lake and Top of the World Provincial Park from this area.

Driving Directions: Main Access: Commencing at Fort Steele Historic Park, proceed north on Hwy 93/95 for 300 metres. Turn right onto the Wardner-Ft. Steele Road. At 0.5 km turn left onto the Wildhorse Road. Follow the main Wildhorse Road for 20.5 km. At 20.5 km, turn right onto the Bear Creek Road. Follow this road for 5.3 km. Park in the landing at the end of the road.