Bear Lake and Emerald Lake
A flat walk around a lake, or a short climb past Nymph and Dream lakes to Emerald Lake, right below the peaks.
A separate timed-entry reservation has been required for this road in summer. Check the park's site.Checked November 2, 2026 · Latest
- Open
- Open all year, weather permitting
- Price
- Park entrance fee
- Time Needed
- 2–5 hours
- Address
- Rocky Mountain National Park, Estes Park, CO 80517Google MapsApple Maps
- Getting There
- Bear Lake Road, with a park shuttle from a lot along it.
Why Go
It's the park's most popular trail: 3.2 miles round trip. Use the free park shuttle.
Tips
- Afternoon storms are the danger in summer. Start early, and turn around if you hear thunder.
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