Picture-perfect mountain lakes, rocky peaks, and quaking aspen are scattered throughout the Emerald Lake hike in Rocky Mountain National Park. This popular, 4.1-mile out-and-back is accessible in any season and begins at the Bear Lake Trailhead, one of the busiest areas in the park. The moderately flat trail brings you to the shores of three lakes with Emerald Lake at the route’s end. Get here early to hike to avoid crowds.

Trail Facts

• • Distance: 8.2 round-trip
  • Elevation Gained: 744 feet
  • Difficulty: Moderate
  • Permits: Yes. A wilderness permit is required for all overnight camping in the backcountry. Reservations accepted ($20 administrative fee for permits during peak season).

What to Expect

From the Bear Lake Trailhead to the shores of Emerald Lake, this hike is filled with amazing views and shorelines no matter what season.

Bear Lake Trailhead to Nymph Lake

Start your hike at the east side of the Bear Lake trailhead’s parking lot (public restrooms are available here). You’ll cross a wooden bridge, then bear left at the first trail junction.

At the next Y-junction, stay right and follow the sign for Nymph Lake, Dream Lake, and Emerald Lake. The trail is paved for the first half-mile to Nymph Lake, the smallest of the three lakes on the hike. As you skirt the lake’s edge, the trail opens up and gives you your first glimpse of the beautiful views this hike has to offer. Bear left to catch views overlooking Chaos Canyon, which runs parallel to Tyndall Gorge on the south side of Hallet Peak. Look east to see Nymph Lake below and catch a quick glimpse of Otis Peak to the southwest.

Nymph Lake to Dream Lake

Next, you’ll walk through dense pines on your way toward Dream Lake, a finger-shaped lake bordered by craggy peaks. As you step out of the trees, stop and take in the breathtaking views of Hallet Peak and Flattop Mountain. Stay right at the Y-junction— the trail to Lake Haiyaha enters on the left— and find Dream Lake just ahead.

Follow the trail along the north side of Dream Lake (the most photographed lake in the park that’s inaccessible by car). In the summer, hike in early to watch the sunrise. During winter months, you can usually walk along the frozen edges of the lake.

Dream Lake to Emerald Lake

From here, the route leads back into the forest for a rolling stretch of trail that drops you onto the shores of Emerald Lake, a picturesque tarn at the foot of Hallet Peak and Flattop Mountain. There are plenty of areas to sit, rest, and have lunch. In the winter, you can continue across the lake to explore and play in the snowfields below the Tyndall Glacier. The slopes above Emerald Lake double as backcountry ski runs in winter and spring.

Once you get your fill of Emerald Lake, reverse your route to return to Bear Lake Trailhead and the parking lot.

Map: Emerald Lake Hike

-Mapped by Ben Fullerton

Additional Photos of the Emerald Lake Hike