Emerald Lake trail is one of the most popular hikes in Rocky Mountain National Park, and for good reason! This short and moderate hike offers amazing views with three beautiful alpine lakes along the way. You’ll pass by Nymph Lake, covered in lily pads, and Dream Lake, where you can see Hallett Peak, before reaching Emerald Lake.
This trail is stunning all year round. Summer is the busiest time to hike it, but fall and winter are also wonderful options. There aren’t many trees that change color in the fall, so the autumn views aren’t as bright as in other areas of the park, but you’ll still enjoy some beautiful colors and cool weather.
In winter, you can put on snowshoes (which you can rent in Estes Park) to explore a magical winter wonderland. The lakes freeze over, and the trail goes right across the ice, making for a unique experience. Since the trail is shaded by evergreen trees all winter, packed snow can stay on the path until late June!
Hike Description: Emerald Lake Trail
Emerald Lake Trail is a round-trip hike that goes through beautiful scenery with icy lakes, tall pine trees, and big mountain peaks. The trail starts at Bear Lake and takes you to other stunning spots along the way. As you hike, the path gently goes uphill, giving you amazing views. It’s a great hike for families, beginners, and experienced hikers!
How Long is the Hike to Emerald Lake in Rocky Mountain National Park?
The hike to Emerald Lake is approximately 3.6 miles round trip, with an elevation gain of 650 feet. This trail is considered moderate in difficulty, with a steady incline but no extreme challenges. Most hikers complete the hike in 2 to 3 hours, depending on their pace and how long they stop to enjoy the scenery.
How Do You Get to Emerald Lake?
To reach the Emerald Lake trailhead, you will start at the Bear Lake Trailhead in Rocky Mountain National Park. Bear Lake is located about 12 miles from the town of Estes Park, which serves as the gateway to the park. You can access the Bear Lake area via Bear Lake Road, which is clearly marked within the park. During peak season, it’s advisable to use the Bear Lake Shuttle service to avoid parking issues.
What to Pack for the Emerald Lake Hike
To make the most of your hike, packing the right gear is essential. Here’s a list of recommended items:
- Sturdy hiking shoes for the uneven terrain
- Plenty of water (there are no water sources on the trail)
- Snacks or a light lunch for the stop at Emerald Lake
- Sunscreen, hat, and sunglasses to protect against the high-altitude sun
- A light jacket or layers, especially in the cooler months
- Camera or phone for stunning photos along the way
- Hiking poles (optional) for added stability
- Trail map (even though the trail is well-marked)
Things to Know About the Emerald Lake Trail
Before embarking on this hike, there are a few important things to keep in mind:
- Trail permits: You will need a Rocky Mountain NP pass to access the trail.
- Weather: Check trail conditions before your hike, as the weather can change quickly in the Rockies.
- Wildlife: Keep an eye out for local wildlife, including elk, marmots, and birds.
- Leave no trace: Be respectful of nature by packing out all trash and staying on the designated trails.
Parking
Parking at the Bear Lake Trailhead can fill up fast, even in winter. If you want to park right at the trailhead, try to get there early!
If you arrive later and can’t find a spot, don’t worry! You can park at the bus pickup area on the way to the trailhead. The bus will take you to and from Bear Lake. Just remember that the bus only runs during certain months of the year!
Best Time to Visit
The Emerald Lake Trail is beautiful any time of year, but we think it’s the most amazing in winter. The weather is cool, there’s a nice breeze, and there aren’t as many people on the trail. (We’ve hiked it in every season!)
That said, it’s also great in the fall if you want to see colorful leaves, and spring is lovely too. Summer is nice, but keep in mind that it can get really hot if you hike later in the day.
Stop 1: Bear Lake
The trail starts at Bear Lake trailhead, but many people skip checking out this stunning lake. Make sure to take the quick detour to the right and see it because the view is amazing, especially with the mountains in the background.
You can decide if you want to walk all the way around the lake, but even just sitting at one of the benches, taking some photos, and starting the hike is a great option!
If you want to see Bear Lake, do it before starting your hike. When you come back, it will likely be very crowded since it’s one of the easiest lakes to visit in the park.
After enjoying Bear Lake, you’ll begin heading uphill. This part is the steepest climb you’ll have on the whole hike!
Stop 2: Nymph Lake
As you keep hiking, the first lake you’ll reach is Nymph Lake. It’s often overlooked but is really beautiful, especially with all the lily pads floating on the surface. If you go early in the morning, you might catch a perfect reflection of the mountains and trees in the still water—great for photos!
Around the edge of the lake, there are tree trunk benches where you can sit and relax. There are plenty of them, so it’s a great spot to take a break before moving on.
From here, the trail stays a bit flatter, making the next part of the hike easier.
Stop 3: Dream Lake
After Nymph Lake, you’ll soon reach Dream Lake! It’s called Dream Lake for a reason—it’s one of the most beautiful lakes in the park. It’s bigger than Nymph Lake and is surrounded by trees that reflect perfectly in the water.
Dream Lake is also a great place to spot animals like moose or elk, so keep your eyes open while you’re here!
Although there aren’t any benches, there are some big rocks along the edge where you can sit and take an awesome photo before heading toward Emerald Lake.
After this lake, the trail starts to go uphill again as you get closer to your final stop!
Stop 4: Emerald Lake
When you arrive at Emerald Lake, you’ll understand why it’s so popular! This peaceful and beautiful lake is absolutely breathtaking. While there aren’t any benches to sit on, you can lean on some rocks if you’d like.
This is a great place to take a break and enjoy the snacks you brought before heading back down. Plan to spend at least 30 minutes here because the view is simply amazing!
FAQ:
Is the Hike to Emerald Lake Difficult?
The Emerald Lake Trail is considered moderate. The trail has a steady incline, but it’s not too strenuous for beginner hikers or families. The elevation gain of 650 feet can make it slightly challenging for those not accustomed to higher altitudes, but overall, it’s a manageable hike for most visitors.
Can You Swim in Emerald Lake?
No, swimming is not allowed in Emerald Lake. The water is extremely cold, as it’s fed by melting snow from the surrounding mountains. Additionally, to preserve the fragile ecosystem, the National Park Service asks visitors to refrain from entering the water.
Are Dogs Allowed at Emerald Lake?
Unfortunately, dogs are not allowed on the Emerald Lake Trail or any other trails within Rocky Mountain National Park. If you’re traveling with a pet, you’ll need to make other arrangements for them while you explore.
Can I See Emerald Lake Without Hiking?
To see Emerald Lake, you must hike the trail. There are no roads or drive-up options to view the lake. However, the hike is accessible and enjoyable for most skill levels, making it worth the effort.
