Emerald Lake: A Rocky Mountain Jewel
Hike to Emerald Lake in Rocky Mountain National Park for breathtaking alpine scenery and unforgettable views.
Nestled in Rocky Mountain National Park, Emerald Lake is a stunning alpine lake accessible via a moderate 3.6-mile hike from the Bear Lake Trailhead. The trail passes Nymph Lake and Dream Lake, offering breathtaking views of the surrounding peaks and forests.
A brief summary to Emerald Lake
- Estes Park, Colorado, 80517, US
Local tips
- Arrive early at the Bear Lake Trailhead, as the parking lot fills quickly, especially on weekends.
- Consider using the free park shuttle from the Estes Park Visitor Center or the Park & Ride lot to avoid parking hassles.
- Check the weather forecast before you go, as conditions in the mountains can change rapidly.
- Bring plenty of water and snacks, and wear appropriate hiking shoes for the rocky terrain.
- Be prepared for potential altitude sickness; take it slow and drink plenty of fluids.
Getting There
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Shuttle
From Estes Park, take the free RMNP Hiker Shuttle from the Estes Park Visitor Center to the Bear Lake Park & Ride. A Hiker Shuttle ticket is required and costs $2.00 per reservation. You will also need a valid park entrance pass. From the Bear Lake Park & Ride, transfer to the Bear Lake Shuttle, which runs every 15-30 minutes to the Bear Lake Trailhead.
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Taxi
From Estes Park, a taxi to the Bear Lake Trailhead will cost approximately $67-$138. Be aware that taxi services may be limited, and it's best to book in advance. Once at the Bear Lake Trailhead, follow the signs for Emerald Lake.
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Driving
From Estes Park, drive west on Highway 36 to the Beaver Meadows Entrance Station. After paying the park entrance fee, turn left onto Bear Lake Road and drive 9 miles to the Bear Lake Trailhead. A timed entry permit may be required to access the Bear Lake Road corridor. Parking at the Bear Lake Trailhead is limited and fills up early; consider arriving before 7 AM. Parking is free within the park with a valid park pass.
Discover more about Emerald Lake
Iconic landmarks you can’t miss
Rocky Mountain National Park Sign
11.3 km
Discover the breathtaking landscapes and diverse wildlife of Rocky Mountain National Park, a natural wonder in Colorado for outdoor adventures and serene escapes.
Aspen Winds on Fall River
12.5 km
Discover tranquility at Aspen Winds on Fall River, a perfect lodge for nature lovers and adventure seekers in Estes Park, Colorado.
Tour Estes Park
13.0 km
Explore the stunning natural beauty, outdoor adventures, and charming culture of Estes Park, your gateway to the Rocky Mountains.
The Wapiti Colorado Pub
13.0 km
Discover the flavors of Colorado at The Wapiti Colorado Pub in Estes Park, where local craft beers and delicious comfort food await.
Saint Catherine's Chapel on the Rock
13.1 km
Explore the spiritual and architectural charm of Saint Catherine's Chapel on the Rock amidst the breathtaking landscapes of Colorado.
Red Rose Rock Shop
13.5 km
Explore the Red Rose Rock Shop in Estes Park – a gem of natural wonders showcasing exquisite rocks, minerals, and unique souvenirs.
Open Air Adventure Park
13.8 km
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Estes Park Brewery
13.8 km
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Estes Park Aerial Tramway Top Terminal
13.8 km
Experience the breathtaking vistas of the Rockies with a ride on the Estes Park Aerial Tramway, a must-visit tourist attraction in Colorado.
Fun City
13.8 km
Discover endless fun for the whole family at Fun City, Estes Park's ultimate amusement park, featuring go-karts, miniature golf, and more!
Mrs. Walsh's Garden
13.9 km
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Performance Park
13.9 km
Discover the stunning Performance Park in Estes Park, Colorado - where breathtaking nature meets captivating performances in an enchanting amphitheater.
Estes Park Aerial Tramway
14.0 km
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The Water Wheel
14.0 km
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Snowy Peaks Winery
14.1 km
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Unmissable attractions to see
Dream Lake
0.7 km
Hike to a fairytale: Dream Lake in Rocky Mountain National Park offers stunning views and an easy escape into alpine beauty.
Lake Haiyaha
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Discover Lake Haiyaha in Rocky Mountain National Park: A moderate hike to stunning alpine views and unique turquoise waters.
Lake Haiyaha To Mills/Loch Jct Trl
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Bear Lake Trail
1.7 km
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Bear Lake Trailhead
1.8 km
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Glacier Gorge Junction Trailhead
2.2 km
Explore Rocky Mountain National Park's stunning trails from Glacier Gorge Junction, a hiker's paradise with alpine lakes and waterfalls.
Alberta Falls
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Hike to a stunning 30-foot waterfall through beautiful forests in Rocky Mountain National Park. An easy and accessible natural wonder near Estes Park.
Fern Lake
3.1 km
Hike to a pristine alpine lake in Rocky Mountain National Park, surrounded by stunning views and natural beauty.
Lake Of Glass
3.1 km
Hike to Lake of Glass in Rocky Mountain National Park for stunning reflections and breathtaking mountain views.
Rocky Mountain National Park
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Sprague Lake
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Fern Lake Trailhead
5.9 km
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Hollowell Park
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Keyhole Route
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Chasm View
7.2 km
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Essential places to dine
The Rock Inn Mountain Tavern
11.2 km
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Twin Owls Steakhouse
11.9 km
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Bird & Jim
12.0 km
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Trailhead Restaurant
12.3 km
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Boss Burgers and Gyros
12.3 km
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Smokin' Dave's BBQ - ESTES PARK
12.5 km
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Coffee on the Rocks
13.4 km
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Rivers Edge BBQ
13.6 km
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Big Horn Restaurant
13.9 km
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Sweet Basilico Cafe
13.9 km
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The View Restaurant
13.9 km
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Twisted Griffin Irish Pub & Restaurant
14.0 km
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The Grubsteak Restaurant
14.1 km
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The Wild Rose Restaurant
14.1 km
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Bob & Tonys Pizza
14.1 km
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Markets, malls and hidden boutiques
The Mad Moose
12.1 km
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The Village Store of Estes Park
12.1 km
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Rocky Mountain Gateway
12.3 km
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Wild Horse Gift Shop
12.6 km
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The Trading Post of the Rockies
13.5 km
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Lizzie's Boutique
13.8 km
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Omnibus
14.0 km
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Over The Edge
14.1 km
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Favorite Things
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The Whispering Wood
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Country West City East Gifts
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Cabin Fever of Estes Park Co
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Rocky Mountain Souvenirs
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Estes Park Souvenirs
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Annie's
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Essential bars & hidden hideouts
Rock Cut Brewing Company
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Full Throttle Distillery & Grill Estes Park
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Lonigans Saloon Nightclub & Grill, An Irish Pub
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Wheel Bar
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The Whiskey Bar At The Cascades Restaurant
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217 Wine Bar
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Avant Garde Aleworks
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The Bull Pin - Elevated Entertainment
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Lumpy Ridge Brewing Co.
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Randi's Grill & Pub
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Gravity Haus Winter Park
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Pits & Stems
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West End Tavern
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Press Play Bar LP
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The Bitter Bar
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