A popular scenic route in the Rocky Mountain National Park, Emerald Lake Trail traverses changing terrain past two lakes and several waterfalls. Starting at the end of Bear Lake Road, this moderate 5 km (3.1 mi) hiking trail offers rewarding views of rocky mountain peaks and diverse geological features, including Hallett Peak and Glacier Gorge. Keep an eye open for local wildlife during the one-hour hike around the lake, and you might spot families of elks or mule deer. If you want to avoid crowds, start early in the morning. Take a look at our Rocky Mountain National Park tour builder site to schedule your visit to Emerald Lake Trail and learn about what else to see and do during your holiday.
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Emerald Lake Trail reviews
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My friend and I visited in mid-May and the trails were almost 100% snow covered and also most of the lakes (Emerald, Dream, Nymph) were still pretty frozen. Hiking on snow on these steeply inclined...
My friend and I visited in mid-May and the trails were almost 100% snow covered and also most of the lakes (Emerald, Dream, Nymph) were still pretty frozen. Hiking on snow on these steeply inclined... more »
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Beautiful hike! For me I’d say it was a moderately easy hike. I really enjoyed getting the see Nymph and Dream lake as well. It was raining lightly and misting pretty much the whole hike but they...
Beautiful hike! For me I’d say it was a moderately easy hike. I really enjoyed getting the see Nymph and Dream lake as well. It was raining lightly and misting pretty much the whole hike but they... more »
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