Emmaline Lake

Emmaline Lake sits high in the Comanche Peak Wilderness of Larimer County, a pristine alpine destination that rewards hikers willing to put in the work. Tucked beneath the rugged flanks of Comanche Peak at roughly 11,000 feet, the lake gleams with crystal-clear water reflecting surrounding granite walls and subalpine meadows. With a perfect 5.0 rating from visitors and far fewer crowds than nearby Rocky Mountain National Park trails, Emmaline Lake offers one of northern Colorado's most satisfying backcountry lake experiences.

The out-and-back trail to Emmaline Lake covers approximately 6 miles round trip and gains significant elevation through dense forest, open meadows, and rocky terrain. Hikers should expect a challenging ascent, particularly on the final push above 10,000 feet where the trail steepens considerably. On a typical summer Saturday, only a handful of groups share the route, making this a strong choice for anyone seeking solitude alongside alpine scenery. A false summit along the way can mislead first-time visitors, so keep heading up and to the right to reach the true lake basin.

Seasonal conditions play a major role in planning a trip to Emmaline Lake. Snow lingers well into late spring and early summer above 9,500 feet, and post-holing through soft snowpack is common on Memorial Day weekend hikes. Snowshoes or microspikes are recommended for early-season attempts. By mid-July through September, the trail is typically clear and wildflower displays brighten the meadows along Pingree Park Road. Fall brings golden aspens lower on the approach, though early storms can close access quickly.

Backpackers will find designated campsites along the trail corridor, with options on patches of dry ground even when surrounding areas are still snow-covered. Dispersed camping follows standard Comanche Peak Wilderness regulations. The trailhead offers limited parking, so arriving early on weekends is a good strategy. No motorized boats or swimming facilities exist at this remote alpine lake, and anglers occasionally find small native trout in its cold, clear waters. For hikers based in Fort Collins or the Front Range corridor, Emmaline Lake delivers a genuine wilderness payoff without the permit hassles and crowds of Rocky Mountain National Park.