Rocky Mountain National Park, Colorado
Emerald Lake Trail
The Bear Lake corridor’s most popular lake chain. Expect company, alpine scenery, and a trail that gets icier as you climb in shoulder season.
Parking: Bear Lake fills. Use the park-and-ride shuttle when it runs.
Permits: Vehicle timed-entry may apply. No trail permit. Figures on this page are typical planning ranges, not a substitute for the park’s current trail report.
Overview
Emerald Lake is the third lake on a well-signed walk from Bear Lake. Nymph Lake comes first, then Dream Lake, then a final climb to Emerald Lake beneath Hallett Peak. The hike is short enough that people wear the wrong shoes and still finish. It is also high enough that weather and ice matter. In summer it is a crowd. In June it can still be a snow route. Timed-entry for the Bear Lake corridor is often required on summer days. Treat the reservation as the start of planning, not the whole plan.
Why Hike This Trail
- You want a shorter RMNP hike with three lakes.
- You are acclimating before a longer gorge hike like Sky Pond.
- You will stay on trail around lake shores.
Route Description
- Start at Bear Lake. The loop around Bear Lake itself is a separate, easier walk.
- Climb to Nymph Lake. Continue to Dream Lake, a common photo stop and a fair turnaround.
- The last segment to Emerald Lake is rockier. The lake has a small standing area; do not ring the shore on social trails.
What to Expect
- Congestion. Start early.
- Snow into early summer.
- Wind at Emerald Lake.
Best Time to Visit
Late July through September for the most straightforward trail surface. Weekdays are quieter than weekends.
What to Bring
- Layers, water, and sun protection.
- Microspikes in June or October if ice is reported.
See also the full-day packing guide and hiking checklist.
How to Prepare
- Book corridor timed-entry if the park is using that system for your date.
Nearby Attractions
- Sky Pond
- Alberta Falls
- Trail Ridge Road
Nearby Places to Stay
- Estes Park
- Moraine Park Campground
Frequently Asked Questions
Is it easy?
It is short, not flat. At over 9,500 feet, ‘easy’ depends on your lungs more than the mile count.
Safety Notes
- Afternoon lightning. Turn around if storms build.
- Stay off lake ice in shoulder season.
Official Resource Links
Rocky Mountain National Park (NPS)
Keep planning
Destination: Colorado. Itinerary: 14-Day American West Explorer.
