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Question

Read up a lot and still confused. (1/2 day trip from Denver)

If we have timed entry (+ Bear Lake) for 10-12. Does that mean I should enter the park by The Beaver Meadows entrance so I can get to the Bear lake Road on time? Then I can drive to one end and then come back same road to drive the Trail Ridge Road and exit by the Grand Lake entrance?

TY!!

Answer

If you have a timed entry for Bear Lake from 10:00–12:00, it is important to plan your arrival at the park accordingly. The timed entry system is designed to control traffic congestion and ensure parking availability at popular trailheads, so you must enter the park and reach Bear Lake within your window.

Here is how you can approach your half-day trip from Denver:

Enter via Beaver Meadows Entrance: This is the most direct route from Denver and will get you on Bear Lake Road efficiently. Plan to arrive at the entrance with enough time to reach Bear Lake within your 10:00–12:00 window, considering traffic and parking delays.
Bear Lake Visit: You can park at Bear Lake or nearby lots if available. Hike around Bear Lake, Nymph Lake, or Dream Lake if time allows. Make sure to budget your time so you can finish and be back on the main road without feeling rushed.
Trail Ridge Road Drive: After your Bear Lake visit, you can drive the scenic Trail Ridge Road. You can go east toward the Grand Lake entrance if you want to exit that way. Be aware that Trail Ridge Road can be slow due to scenic stops, wildlife, or construction, so allow plenty of time.
Return Options: You can either exit via the Grand Lake side or loop back to the Beaver Meadows entrance depending on your schedule. If your plan is tight, you may prefer to return the same way to avoid missing your timed entry window at Bear Lake in the morning.

Additional tips for your trip:

Check the park website for any Trail Ridge Road closures or restrictions, especially early in the season.
Consider starting early from Denver to allow flexibility with traffic or parking delays.
Have a plan B for parking at Bear Lake if lots are full—there are shuttle options in peak seasons, but in early fall it may be less frequent.
Trail Ridge Road is slower than it looks; allow at least 1.5–2 hours for a scenic drive from Bear Lake to Grand Lake without stopping extensively.

In summary, yes—you should enter via Beaver Meadows to make your timed entry window at Bear Lake, enjoy your hike, and then proceed to drive Trail Ridge Road. Exiting via Grand Lake is feasible, but be mindful of time and road conditions to ensure a smooth half-day trip from Denver.

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