Lake Haiyaha Trail

The Bear Lake route to Lake Haiyaha is a 4.2-mile out-and-back, returning the way you came, with about 745 feet of elevation gain. Allow three to four hours. The trail starts near 9,500 feet and climbs through forest before a short, rough scramble at the lake; this is more than an easy stroll between lakes. The optional Dream Lake side trip is about 100 yards from the junction and is not included in the 4.2 miles.

At Bear Lake Trailhead, take the trail toward Nymph Lake rather than the short loop around Bear Lake. The well-used approach climbs steadily, and some of it is paved. Longs Peak appears through the trees. Nymph Lake, just over half a mile in, is ringed with pond lilies. Past its south end, the climb steepens briefly; look for views of Longs Peak and Hallett Peak, with summer wildflowers along this stretch.

At roughly 1.1 miles, turn left at Dream Lake Junction for Haiyaha. Dream Lake is about 100 yards to the right if you want the side trip. The Haiyaha route climbs through dense pines; a canopy opening near 1.3 miles looks across Glacier Basin toward Bear, Nymph, and distant Bierstadt lakes. At the Mills Lake and The Loch junction, continue straight for Haiyaha.

The grade eases as you near the lake, but the final 50 yards cross large, uneven boulders. Take your time and choose your footing. Reaching the water’s edge means moving across the boulders; this is a poor fit if you need a smooth, level shoreline or want to avoid scrambling.

The lake sits among the boulders of Chaos Canyon. From the rocky shore, Otis Peak and Hallett Peak rise across the water, with the Sharkstooth visible farther left. The rocks make a strong foreground for the view. In calm dawn light, the peaks can reflect in the water; the lake’s blue-green appearance varies with light, so expect the scene rather than a particular shade.

Nymph Lake and Dream Lake are good turnarounds if the climb or boulder finish is more than you want. The National Park Service prohibits pets on park trails; trained service animals are allowed. The Bear Lake Road corridor has seasonal shuttle service from Park & Ride, and access rules can change, so check current park requirements before heading up.