![]() ![]() It’s a relatively short hike, but you’ll be gaining almost 700 feet in elevation to reach the 10,110-foot Emerald Lake. This hike is approximately 3.5 miles round-trip. How Long Does It Take to Hike to Emerald Lake? Weather can change quickly no matter the season in the park, so pack wind and waterproof layers to make sure you stay warm in case the wind picks up or it starts to storm. Always check road conditions and the avalanche forecast before setting off in the winter. In the winter, storms can make the winding road up to the parking lot harrowing and lead to heightened avalanche conditions. The exposed sections of this hike put it at extreme lightning strike risk, so plan to be back to the trailhead by mid-day. In the summer months, thunderstorms occur most days around mid-day or early afternoon. When planning your hike to Emerald Lake, make sure to take the park’s often intense weather into account. Sunrise at Dream Lake on the Emerald Lake Trail in Rocky Mountain National Park (Photo: Stacey Rundio) Since the trail is shaded by evergreens all winter long, packed snow often remains on the trail until late June. The lakes freeze over in the winter and the trail goes right across the surface making for a truly unique experience. When the snow falls, strap on your snowshoes (rentals are available in Estes Park) to experience a winter wonderland. ![]() There aren’t a ton of deciduous trees on this trail in the fall so autumn colors aren’t quite as impressive as other areas of the park, but you’ll still get a healthy dose of color and crisp and cool weather. Summer is the most popular time to hike it but fall and winter are also great choices. You’ll pass the lily-pad covered Nymph Lake and the aptly named Dream Lake with perfect views of Hallett Peak before reaching your final destination of Emerald Lake. This relatively short and moderate hike packs a ton of bang for your buck with three beautiful alpine lakes and incredible views along the way. Emerald Lake is one of the most popular hikes in Rocky Mountain National Park for good reason. ![]()
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