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.
Emerald Lake Trail reviews
-
Can definitely understand why it is one of the more popular hikes at RMNP. It is short enough you don't get tired yet long enough to take in the views. It can definitely get crowded but you don't...
Can definitely understand why it is one of the more popular hikes at RMNP. It is short enough you don't get tired yet long enough to take in the views. It can definitely get crowded but you don't... more »
-
One of the best, if not the most popular, trails in RMNP. It starts at the Bear Lake trailhead and is about 3.6 miles round trip. It encompasses the Nymph, Dream and Emerald lakes which are all not..... more
One of the best, if not the most popular, trails in RMNP. It starts at the Bear Lake trailhead and is about 3.6 miles round trip. It encompasses the Nymph, Dream and Emerald lakes which are all not..... more »
Plan your trip to Rocky Mountain National Park
best routes and schedules
Popular things to do in Rocky Mountain National Park
Nature in Rocky Mountain National Park
Side trips from Rocky Mountain National Park
Trails in Rocky Mountain National Park
Hidden gems in Rocky Mountain National Park
Nearby attractions in Rocky Mountain National Park
Trips in Emerald Lake Trail by other users
7 days in Colorado
BY A USER FROM UNITED STATES
Denver
Colorado Springs
Rocky Mountain National Park
15 days in San Diego & Denver
BY A USER FROM UNITED STATES
San Diego
Denver
32 days in United States
BY A USER FROM GERMANY
Rocky Mountain National Park
Grand Teton National Park
Yellowstone National Park
12 days in United States
BY A USER FROM MEXICO
Denver
Westminster
Boulder
2 days in Rocky Mountain National Park
BY A USER FROM UNITED STATES
Emerald Lake Trail
Many Parks Curve Overlook
Old Fall River Road
60 days in Denver
BY A USER FROM GERMANY
City Park Golf Course
Denver Zoo
Denver Museum of Nature & Science