Emerald Lake

Emerald Lake is one of the most photographed destinations in Rocky Mountain National Park, a striking alpine lake at 10,111 feet that sits beneath the jagged spires of Flattop Mountain and Hallett Peak in Larimer County. The 3.6-mile round-trip hike from Bear Lake Trailhead gains 771 feet of elevation and passes three other lakes along the way, making it one of the most rewarding moderate hikes in all of Colorado.

The trail begins at Bear Lake Trailhead, starting at 9,475 feet, and climbs steadily through aspen groves and subalpine forest. About half a mile in, you reach Nymph Lake, a small pond filled with lily pads that bloom throughout the summer months. Another half mile brings you to Dream Lake, a dramatic alpine setting with Hallett Peak towering directly above the water. From Dream Lake, the final mile to Emerald Lake gains most of the remaining elevation through rockier terrain with exposed tree roots and natural stone steps.

Emerald Lake earns its name. The water glows a deep green-blue against the surrounding granite walls, and the mountain backdrop creates one of those scenes that makes you stop and stare. Boulder scrambling along the shoreline lets you find a quieter perch away from the main trail junction, and many hikers settle in for a lunch break to absorb the views before heading back down. Bald eagles and other raptors are sometimes spotted soaring above the lake basin, and the surrounding forest supports marmots, pikas, and other alpine wildlife.

This trail is one of the most popular in Rocky Mountain National Park, which means crowds are a reality, especially between June and September. A timed entry reservation is required to access the Bear Lake corridor between 5 a.m. and 6 p.m. daily. You will need both a general park timed entry reservation and a separate Bear Lake Road reservation during peak hours. Arriving before 9 a.m. gives you the best chance at parking at the Bear Lake lot. If the lot is full, free shuttle buses run frequently from the Park and Ride lot several miles below.

The trail is hikeable from late May through October in most years, though snow and ice can linger into June and return by October. Microspikes and trekking poles are strongly recommended for early and late season visits when the trail surface can be slippery. The route is not suitable for strollers or wheelchairs due to rocky terrain and sustained elevation gain.

Whether you are visiting Rocky Mountain National Park for the first time or returning for a favorite hike, the walk from Bear Lake through Nymph and Dream Lakes to Emerald Lake is one of those trails that deserves its reputation. The views build with every lake, and the payoff at Emerald is among the best in the park.