Bear Lake is the highest alpine lake accessible by paved highway in the Rocky Mountains range. A mile long path around the lake yields a variety of views of Longs and Hallets Peaks and Glacier Gorge. Several popular trails into the back country commence at Bear Lake, including the Flattop Mountain Trail, which leads to Grand Lake, and includes a 3,000-foot elevation gain. Plan on a minimum of two days one way to make this hike. You'll need a shuttle unless you want to walk both ways.
Most people seem satisfied after a one-way trip.
Everybody who feels like they have something to prove wants to climb Longs Peak, at 14,555 feet the highest peak in Rocky. Accessed from Wild Basin in the southeast corner of the park, the Longs Peak hike is at least a half day undertaking. Don't even think about climbing Longs Peak unless you're in top condition and acclimated to high altitude. For a different approach to Trail Ridge, try the Fall River Road, the original highway from Estes Park to Grand Lake. Pick it up from Trail Ridge Road in Horseshoe Park.