Estes Park, Colorado
Emerald Lake Trail
Three pristine alpine lakes beneath Hallett Peak and Flattop Mountain.
- Difficulty
- Easy
- Length
- 3.5 mi
- Elevation Gain
- 650 ft
- Duration
- 2–3
- Best Season
- Jun–Oct
- Permit
- Required
- Dogs
- Not allowed
- Features
- Alpine lakes, Three lakes in one hike
About the trail
The Emerald Lake Trail is the most popular hike in Rocky Mountain National Park for good reason: three stunning lakes (Nymph, Dream, Emerald) in under two miles, all framed by towering granite peaks. Nymph Lake is dotted with yellow pond lilies in summer. Dream Lake reflects Hallett Peak. Emerald Lake sits in a glacial cirque below Tyndall Glacier.
Trailhead map & directions
Trailhead: 40.3107, -105.6450Get directions →
Turn-by-turn route
- Reserve a Bear Lake timed entry permit in advance.
- Park at the Bear Lake Trailhead (or take the park shuttle from the Park & Ride).
- Follow signs for Nymph Lake (0.5 miles).
- Continue to Dream Lake (1.1 miles).
- Finish at Emerald Lake (1.8 miles).
- Return the same way.
Parking
Bear Lake lot fills before sunrise. Use the free park shuttle from the Park & Ride.
Tips from the trail
- Excellent winter snowshoe — Emerald Lake freezes over in stunning patterns.
- Bring microspikes Oct–May.
- Start at sunrise for reflections on Dream Lake.