Emerald Lake

Estes Park, CO

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Emerald Lake

Because this trail gives hikers a great deal of spectacular scenery with relatively little effort, it is the most crowded path in Rocky Mountain National Park. Avoid crowds and see the trail at its best by starting to hike before sunrise. Starting early will provide the most dramatic light on the peaks and probably little wind. You also will meet more animals along the trail. The uphill hiking temperature will be cool and trailhead parking is no problem! Highlights: Views of Hallett Peak, Flattop Mountain, and Longs Peak with pond lilies at Nymph Lake, limber pines framing Hallett and Flattop at Dream Lake, Emerald Lake.

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Driving Directions

Note: driving directions are approximate.

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Directions to: Emerald Lake

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Trail Statistics & Information

ActivityHiking
Nearby CityEstes Park
Length3.6 mi
Skill LevelEasy to moderate
SeasonBest summer and fall
Trailhead Elevation9,475 ft
Top Elevation10,080 ft
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