Our goal was to hike to Emerald Lake, and let me tell you... It was 100% worth it. On this 3.6 mile roundtrip hike, you'll also encounter Nymph Lake and Dream Lake. While they're both beautiful in their own right, neither one of them compare to the sheer beauty of Emerald Lake with the snowy mountains as a backdrop. As I said, it is a moderate hike. We started around 930am - would've been nicer to start earlier, but it still beat the full heat of the noon sun. There will be intermittent shade, but make sure you bring a hat, sunscreen, and plenty of water. We visited in mid June. Once we neared Dream Lake, we started encountering snow on the ground. I used hiking sandals, and I was able to do it in those - just be careful. That being said, with the amount of snow that was on the trail to Lake Haiyaha was completely un-doable in my shoes. Once you reach Emerald Lake, find a place to sit and just take it all in. I could've sat there all afternoon, just being at peace with nature. Absolutely gorgeous. To get to Emerald Lake, you'll need access to Bear Lake Road. Just be aware that Bear Lake Road requires a reservation SEPARATE from the reservation to the national park. There's a big lot at the trailhead, but it gets filled up. They do have a park & ride a few miles away with plenty of shuttles ready to bring you in. If you're able to make the hike, hiking to Emerald Lake is wonderful. The hike itself is gorgeous, and the final lake is beautiful. Plan it in your schedule, and you will not be disappointed. read more

Emerald Lake - Hiking Near Me - Estes Park, Colorado

After spending a part of my morning at Bear Lake, I decided to do this hike to Emerald Lake the second part of the day. This hike starts at the beginning of the Bear Lake trailhead and is 1.8 miles one way (3.6 miles RT). I would say that it is a moderate hike that has some elevation climb to it. You will pass both Nymph Lake and Dream Lake along way. The views along the way are spectacular. Emerald Lake is nestled in between some mountains at an elevation of 10,111 feet. You can see Hallett Peak and the jagged spires of Flattop Mountain across this iconic alpine lake. In between the two mountains is the Tyndall Gorge. There were some small ripples in the water caused but a slight wind. Several people that hiked here jumped in and swam in the water. I ended up relaxing on a large rock and eating my lunch while enjoying the view. Emerald Lake starts at the beginning of the Bear Lake Trailhead in Rocky Mountain National Park. To reach this trail, you must drive ten miles on Bear Lake Road after entering through the Beaver Meadows Entrance. There is a separate timed entry reservation that is required to access Bear Lake Road. If you are unable to find parking at the Bear Lake Trailhead, there is a free shuttle that you can ride to the trailhead. read more

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Emerald lake is one of the stars of RMNP. Its a stunning place to hike to year round, and it's pretty moderate as a hike so it's accessible to most people. I personally prefer the lake in winter when it's frozen; there's something about the towering peaks covered in snow when you can walk right up to where the flat surface of the lake meets the bank. It's just stunning! It is very slipper when there's that much snow though so come prepared -- crampons/shoe chains are very helpful, and snow shoes can also be helpful. There are areas of the trail that get buried pretty deep in snow. Watch your step! Even in summer there are a lot of steps so you can slide on rocks etc. But it is a truly beautiful hike, all the time. You pass nymph and dream lake on the way out to emerald and they are also absolutely stunning - actually I prefer dream in summer when it's defrosted :) read more

Emerald Lake - Sitting on the rocks - Hiking Near Me - Estes Park, Colorado

Absolutely stunning lake! Definitely come here in the evening if you want to see wildlife! We saw 3 HUGE elk bucks, and one massive one who sat right next to the trail and kept posing for us. We also saw a lonely fox out looking for its dinner. A little chilly and very windy so be sure to bring a jacket! Bring a camera, jacket, and good company for an amazing time ;) read more

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Nice challenge trail. The trail round trip is 3.16 miles. The elevation gain 702 feet. To me is very challenge due we are at sea level of 10,100 feet. Since stop and visit the other two lake along the way, it take us 2.5 hours to complete the round trip of the trail. To prepare the trail, you will need to reserve a access permit pass before noon for you to have enough time to enjoy your hike. During fall weather, the trail hike is more pleasant due to leave color change and the nice weather. Along the way you will pass through two other different lake. Take your time to enjoy the view. At the emerald lake, you will notice a nice mountain peak with little glacier on top. The dead wood at the edge of the lake is beautiful. The water in the lake is clear. You can spot some trout there. read more

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This hike is our favorite. We took our 5 month old and he did great. It does get very busy, but so so awesome! read more

Emerald Lake - Hiking Near Me - Estes Park, Colorado

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A really stunning trail through the beautiful Rocky Mountain! I can see why the hike to Emerald Lake is one of the most popular trails in the park. You can actually shorten and extend this hike to your liking. The actual trail from the Bear Lake Staging Area to Emerald Lake is 1.8 miles one way. It starts off on a moderate incline up a beautiful rocky ridge and follows a sanded path passed 2 other lakes (Nymph Lake and Dream Lake) until it ends at Emerald Lake. I ended up doing a 7.5 mile loop and also hit Bear Lake and Lake Haiyaha (my favorite lake of the bunch). There were lots of people on the trails in mid-October, many of whom were not wearing masks. I of course stayed diligent and wore mine (not trying to catch that 'rona). If this is a concern for you, I'd opt for a less busier trail. Also, this is one of the few trails where I never shed my extra layers. It was COLD! Some of the lakes were already frozen over and there were patches on snow around some parts of the trail. Would highly advise that you dress in layers if coming in October or later because it's cold, and once you reach Emerald Lake, you'll be FREEZING your ass off with all of those high winds. Trust me, you won't be hanging around at the lake for too long once you get there. I met a lady from Chicago who even said that the Windy City didn't even get this windy. Believe it, folks! But anyways, the lakes are all really charming and the views of the mountain side are so gorgeous. Although Emerald Lake seems to be all the rave, I have to say that Dream Lake was the most breathtaking while I was on this trail (Lake Haiyaha was an amazing off lake and hike). It's HUGE and the snow covered mountainous backdrop will literally make your heart melt. Plus, it's not nearly as windy and cold as it is at Emerald Lake. Definitely wear some comfortable shoes with good ankle support. The trail is very rocky and a few spots are steep, but nothing that even the most actively challenged couldn't handle without taking their time. Also, this staging area fills up QUICKLY! If you don't get here by 8:00 am-ish, just park at the park n' ride and take the shuttle there. But just beware; the shuttle is operating at limited capacity and the wait times are extremely long, especially getting back. Just plan for some additional waiting time unless you can make it here before 8 am. Restrooms are available at Bear Lake parking lot. All in all, I really enjoyed the hike out to Emerald Lake. If you have some extra time and are looking for a much more secluded hike and a bit more of a difficult hike, I'd 100% recommend the hike up to Lake Haiyaha! This was my favorite hike and you can combine it with the hike to Emerald Lake as well. Happy hiking! read more

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This trail starts at Bear Lake and gives you 4 different lakes to see along the way (including the one you start at)! It's about a 4 mile round trip hike that's pretty easy/moderate for the area. In the order you pass them, you'll see: Bear Lake, Nymph Lake, Dream Lake, and Emerald Lake. In theory, there are great mountain views along the way as well. We were fogged in because of the September snow storm so we couldn't see those. We also added on Lake Haiyaha to our hike, which from the pictures I've seen, would normally be well worth it. It was the highest in elevation so it was the foggiest lake for us and we couldn't see much. This trail is incredibly popular, so expect it to be crowded. I'm sure the snow caused there to be less people when we were there and it was still fairly crowded. People wearing masks aren't common. Either plan to get an early start to get a parking spot or plan to take the shuttle. Overall, definitely a great trail in RMNP! read more

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By far one of the most stunning hikes I have ever completed! The trail distance is short, however, don't let that fool you since you're dealing with elevation and below 0 temperatures that creates a very slippery path. As long as you have warm gear and the right set of shoes, this will be a great experience. You'll pass a couple of lakes along the way and there are some narrow areas with elevation and snow, so take your time and trek carefully. The sights at Emerald lake are incredible and pictures don't do justice. Understandably one of the most popular hikes in the area, go check it out for yourself! Best, Charlie read more

Gorgeous hiking trail, probably the best in the entire park. Get your winter gear ready. This trail has very heavy foot traffic but the views are amazing and if you come from an area without much snow, it is a treat. read more

Emerald Lake - Hiking Near Me - Estes Park, Colorado

This is a super popular trail in Rocky Mountain National Park, and for good reason! In the span of less than two miles, we were rewarded with three gorgeous lakes: Nymph Lake, Dream Lake, and Emerald Lake at the very end. The trail is well-defined and curated, as well as a fairly easy hike in and out. We brought our 1-year-old in a child carrier, though I can picture us taking him on foot once he's older. Despite the ~700 ft elevation gain, it's fairly gradual and barely noticeable since there were several lakes to stop at and enjoy along the way. A perk of the elevation gain is that it's in the first half of the hike going in, so it's easier going back down and out. In addition to the gorgeous trees, mountains, and alpine lakes, there were cute creatures all around. My little one enjoyed seeing a yellow bellied marmot scurrying next to us during a small part of our hike, as well as the many chipmunks that seem to gravitate towards humans for some strange reason? Due to the popularity of this trail, I would suggest coming early...very early. We arrived by 9am on a Saturday in July, and the parking lot by Bear Lake was already full. We ended up just hanging out at one of the visitor's centers and driving around a bit to kill time until we were allowed into the Beak Lake parking lot at 1pm. read more

Emerald Lake - Nymph Lake in July 2018. - Hiking Near Me - Estes Park, Colorado

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Emerald lake is an awesome hike! The hike to this lake includes passing 4 other beautiful lakes. You start of a Bear Lake Loop Trailhead. A lot of this hike is paved because these trails do get busy at times. This would be a great hike for families or people who just want to do a little hiking without the huge commitment of hiking wayyyy up into the mountains. I think emerald lake is a true gem in the Rocky Mountains. I definitely recommend this hike. read more

Emerald Lake - Hiking Near Me - Estes Park, Colorado

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Located in Rocky Mountain National Park (RMNP), Emerald Lake Trail (at elevation 9475ft) is an easy and popular trail that can be done year round. Definitely a "best value hike," if you will, as you get to visit three lakes (Nymph Lake, Dream Lake, and Emerald Lake) on ONE short easy trail! The shortest and most direct path starts at Bear Lake Trailhead. To get there, from Estes Park, enter RMNP through the Headquarters Entrance, just a little past the Beaver Meadows Visitor Center, and then follow the signs to Bear Lake Trailhead (ranger station and restrooms are onsite). Basic stats: Length: 3.6 miles round trip Elevation Gain: 615 feet Start-End Elevation: 9,475' - 9,705' (Nymph): 9,912' (Dream): 10,090' (Emerald) Elevation Change: +230' (Nymph): +437' (Dream): +615' (Emerald) Duration: 2-3 hours at leisure pace We went during wintertime when the trail was blanketed by snow. It was absolutely fun and relaxing! Lots of hikers and cross-country skiers (beware when they come out flying out of the blues zooming through the trail) come here. The trail was not marked clearly, but we were able to follow the footprints and asked the hikers along the trail for directions. The lakes were frozen, and we had fun gliding and sliding across, but it was VERY slippery, so exercise caution. As we progressed from one lake to another, the view became more intense and stunning, with views of Flattop Mountain, Hallett Peak, and Glacier Gorge. Can't wait to hike the trail in spring/fall to see the seasonal colors. TIPS: - In winter, be sure to wear waterproof hiking boots at a minimum. The hard pack ice can be slippery at various areas. - Snowshoes were not required IF the snow was hard packed; if there were fresh powder, then definitely gear up on snowshoes. - Good area to snowshoe - No dogs allowed on trail - Park Entry $20 for 7 days, $40 for annual RMNP pass, or $80 America The Beautiful Annual Pass (can be used for all national parks) read more

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May 2018 Hike Review This was my first time at Rocky Mountain National Park and I'm so glad we decided to get away from our visit to Denver to come here. It was definitely the highlight of my trip! We weren't 100% sure of the trail we would hike upon arrival, so we looked at the map and determined how long we would stay in the park and voila - the hike to Emerald Lake seemed doable. It's RT of 3.6 miles (in and back). Once we started the trail there was slush immediately. The snow hadn't melted away yet and by then I really wanted to turnaround, but as other hikers were coming out of the trail with SNEAKERS on, I knew I would be OK with my hiking boots (no spikes). The trail wasn't difficult during this time but we had to be sure to follow the trail since it was easy to get lost in a separate route. You pass by 2 other lakes to get to Emerald and each one was so beautiful with the lake frozen over. I would consider this a moderate hike because the snow was a bit difficult to trudge through where we were sliding (and fell) in some areas. :) Also, there were quite a bit of people considering the state of the trail. It wasn't super crowded or busy, but you continuously run into people on the trail so it helps to know you're headed in the right direction! I'll have to be back to see the view during the fall time. read more

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Knocked this little gem of a hike off in mid August. Perfect time of year, no snow to speak of. Camping was great, 38 over night. The trail is well Maintained, lots of foot traffic. When I'm RMNP do check this hike out. Perfect for beginners and true back packers as well read more

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Our favorite hiking trail in RMNP. We tried to hiking this trail in July with friends out of town, but it was so busy, long wait for bus shuttles, so we gave up. Last Sunday 10/29/2017, we made it to the bear lake parking lot at 10:30am, parking lot was 1/2 full. We visited bear lake then hiked Emerald Lake Trail. Some incline in 1st 0.5 mile to Nymph Lake. Had a thin layer of ice on the surface already. Another 0.6 miles up, it's our favorite spot-Dream Lake! Also turned into ice lake! So different then summer views, so beautiful! The ice still not thick enough for people to walk on it yet, be careful! Continue 0.7 mile up, reached Emerald Lake, surprised the lake still not iced yet, but windy and cold. It's above 10k ft elevations, gorgeous views! We left by 1:30pm, there was a line of 10+ car waiting to get in the parking lot, and there were parking spots available. We enjoyed it very much! No wonder it's the no.1 hiking trail in RMNP. read more

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My friends and I walked this trail/hike on 8/12/17. This place is simply beautiful. If you are a nature person or just like seeing magical scenery, this place is the place. read more

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Highly recommend and you get to fully enjoy all the lakes on the way up. An absolute must in my book. We saw a herd of elk as close up as you could safely enjoy. Loved the waterfalls and and sounds of nature as well. read more

Absolutely awesome (a much overused word). We had 3 days in Denver in late July and chose this hike for a day trip and it was well worth it. Incredible views and an amazing variety of wildlife. Marmots trying to steal food from tourists, XXL chipmunks scampering around, a large Steller's Jay, and glimpses of trout in dream lake. The views from dream lake are probably best for photos, but the feeling of being a tiny little creature on the shore of emerald lake was worth the hike. A truly spiritual place. read more

Emerald Lake - Dream Lake - Hiking Near Me - Estes Park, Colorado

If you could only do one hike in the Rocky Mountain national park I would definitely recommend this one! There is some elevation gain, and you get to pass by three gorgeous lakes (round trip 3.6 miles). I would recommend going early because it gets crowded. Before driving up to Bear Lake you should definitely stop by the park and ride to see if the parking lot at Bear Lake is already full (the park rangers will let you know). Otherwise, park in the park and ride and the shuttle is free. read more

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This trail is rated "easy" and family friendly and there were all sorts of people on this trail: old, young, babies.... be aware though that there is still elevation gain, although gentle. The 3 lakes you encounter are so gorgeous and serene. We stopped at emerald lake and had lunch. Very peaceful despite loud children. This trail is sure to wear them out though! For the more athletic, this is a good trail to take a break while still enjoying a hike with beautiful views. The trails are well marked and kept. Not slippery. Good shade everywhere from the trees. People fly fishing. Cute chipmunks (don't feed them!! But they are soooo cute!) well kept bathrooms at the trailhead! read more

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We went in late September. We tried to get there early in the morning and when we arrived at 8:30AM, but when we got to the top the rangers made us turn around because the lot was full. Important to note, YOU CANNOT just loop around in the parking lot because the rangers won't let you. So if you go up, you will have to go back down to try again. So what we did instead was do one of the wheelchair accessible trails with my 1 year old son in a stroller. I believe it was Sprague Lake. We then drove back up and low and behold there were no more rangers and a fair amount of open spots. Emerald lake isn't bad, just take your time because of the elevation. I used one of those hiking bags to carry your kids and two poles and my wife had one those bigger REI backpacks. I strongly suggest using poles, I bought $60 ones and they really helped with the weight of having a kid on you. read more

This is a fabulous, doable hike for most people, finishing above 10,000 feet. Tons of very spectacular views, and walks along a couple of different lakes. We were lucky enough to do it late in the day right after a storm, so the usual crowds were much thinner. But do this if you can. Trust me. read more

The Emerald Lake Trail is fantastic! I highly recommend it if you are visiting Rocky Mountain National Park (RMNP). First of all, you get out of your car and get up close and personal with nature - a good thing in such a beautiful, unspoiled natural environment. Second, this keeps things interesting enough you never get bored with it. You hike past 4 different lakes. The first is right next to the parking lot. Roundtrip, I think it is about 3.8 miles; it took me 2 hours 40 minutes, but I stop and took a lot of pictures along the way. Yes, there's a good deal of uphill, but once you get past the initial push between Bear and Nymph Lakes (the first 2), the scenery is enough to keep your mind off how tired you are. Each of the lakes is different and special in its own way. Bear Lake is easily accessible and the first lake you see. Nymph Lake has water lilies. Dream Lake is simply beautiful (my favorite) and Emerald Lake is right up there with a perfect mountain backdrop (the emerald waters are nice too). If you want to shake things up a bit, right before you get to Dream Lake, you can turn off this path and go to Lake Haiyaha, which I did on my most recent trip. It made my hike longer, but was very enjoyable. Hiking may not be for everyone, but if you decide its for you, I highly recommend this trail. It's beautiful with spectacular views and beautiful lakes. I saw lots of kids hiking this trail, so bring the family! The only negative thing I can say about it is that it can be hard to get to. My first time on the trail, I got there early, around 7:15 or 7:30. On my most recent trip, I arrived around 8:30, by which time the parking lot was full, so I had to park several miles away and take the shuttle there and back, which added a good 45 minutes or so to our timeline (probably more). So get there early, and bring water. It may have a lot of uphill (800ft elevation gain), but you won't be sorry. This truly is a great way to experience RMNP, even better than driving the Trail Ridge Road. read more

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Beautiful for snow shoeing. Hint- don't turn right at the base of the trail like we did, need to go left ! Haha. Anyways, there were tons of tourists down at bear lake, but if you keep going up, you will be more and more isolated. The second lake is nice but trust me and keep going up! You won't be disappointed. I have been here in summer and it is super crowded, but don't forget to come see it in winter ! read more

Emerald Lake - Fresh powder for snow shoeing - Hiking Near Me - Estes Park, Colorado

This is a moderately strenuous trail that's 3 miles each way and climbs up about 700 feet to an elevation of 10,000 at emerald lake. It should be doable by most people in half decent shape. The trail starts at the Bear Lake parking lot which might often be full and would require you to take a shuttle from the Park and Ride or Estes Park. If you're taking a shuttle, be sure to bring a little food and water for this hike. You might also want to wear some waterproof clothing if there's a chance of rain as I had encountered a massive downpour on my way back. But despite these precautions, it's still definitely worth a visit; if you're only hiking one trail, it should be this one! read more

Amazing and not super hard trail. This was so worth the wait and I am so glad that I was able to get into to this hike while I was in the area. read more

This trail is doable for all people, especially if wear microspikes on your shoes and bring hiking poles! Please wear them even if it's sunny after it just snowed bc that's when the trail will be the most icy, I saw a lot of people slipping on ice! Beautiful hike with lots to see, took 3.5 hours RT with lots of stops for pics. read more

Beautiful hike. Im not an avid hiker but I'd say this would be a moderate trail to someone that hikes all the time. Steps are very deep and constant up and down, not much even ground. It was like a step aerobics class for me, hard on the knees, butt & calves unless you're super fit. Lots of shady spots to stop & rest. The ascent was much easier but still difficult in that you have to keep your eyes on the ground to keep from tripping over rocks. Took us three hours not including the two buses to get up to Bear Lake and back, five hours including those shuttles. Saw Mama Elk and some younger ones, begging chipmunks and a young bear trapped in a small tree in town of Estes and gorgeous blue, blue Jays. read more