Do you need a park pass to hike Gem Lake?

You can also purchase a park-specific annual pass. The beautiful trail leading up to Gem Lake features amazing views of Estes Park and Rocky Mountain National Park. Although located in the park, this great hike begins before the park’s main entrance.

How long of a hike is Gem Lake?

4.7 mile
Gem Lake is a 4.7 mile lightly trafficked out and back trail located near Chester, California that features a river and is rated as moderate. The trail is primarily used for hiking, camping, and nature trips and is best used from May until September. Dogs are also able to use this trail but must be kept on leash.

Is Gem Lake part of Rocky Mountain National Park?

Gem Lake is a short but strenuous hike in Rocky Mountain National Park. Not only do you get to visit a pretty lake but you also get sweeping views of Estes Park with Longs Peak in the distance.

Can you swim in Gem Lake Colorado?

The trailhead elevation is at 7,870 feet and Gem Lake is at 8,860 feet, making the elevation gain 990 feet. The moderate hike includes beautiful views, a unique lake, wildflowers, and autumn foliage. Don’t swim or wade in the lake. No fee is required for day-hiking on the trail.

Can you walk around Lake Estes?

Lake Estes Trail is a 4 mile heavily trafficked loop trail located near Estes Park, Colorado that features a river and is good for all skill levels. The trail is primarily used for walking, running, nature trips, and road biking and is accessible year-round.

Is Emerald Lake hike hard?

Emerald Lake Trail is a 3.2 mile heavily trafficked out and back trail located near Estes Park, Colorado that features a lake and is rated as moderate. The trail is primarily used for hiking and snowshoeing and is best used from June until October.

How long does it take to walk around Estes Park Lake?

Description. Located in the center of Estes Valley, the Lake Estes Trail acts as a central trail hub for an extensive trail network throughout the Estes area and Rocky Mountain National Park. The approximately 4-mile long trail is managed by the Estes Valley Parks and Recreation District.

How long is the riverwalk in Estes Park?

If you tire along the way refuel at one of the many restaurants along the Riverwalk or stop for a drink at The Slab Outdoor Pub, one of Estes Park’s patio bars, or a local coffee shop. That path is about a mile in total, running from the parking structure to Performance Park.

How long does it take to walk around Emerald Lake?

It requires a reservation, a guide and stamina since you’ll be hiking for up to 10 hours. Your 5.2 km loop hike around Emerald Lake will likely take an hour or two tops. This is a popular trail and you won’t be alone. This post includes some affiliate links.

Is Emerald Lake Worth it?

A walk through the forest here is well worth it as the lake holds a small microclimate more indicative of a rainforest found on the coast. However, the business can be easy to escape if you go on a short walk. Most visitors congregate around the bridge near the parking lot that leads to the Emerald Lake Lodge.

How long is the Gem Lake Trail in Colorado?

The Gem Lake trail has some awesome views of the Estes Valley from above. This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Very nice 3.8 mile hike. The aspen were starting to change color and the trail is wonderfully maintained and without litter. Enjoyed seeing Paul Bunyan’s boot.

Is the Gem Lake in Rocky Mountain National Park worth seeing?

Gem Lake, on the other hand, was alright in late November. During our climb up to Gem Lake, it was difficult, cold, and hilarious, to say the least, because the hike took a big toll on one of my friends. It took us hours to reach the top, but when we finally made it to Gem Lake, it was a lake not worth seeing because it was frozen at the time.

Is it safe to hike to Gem Lake?

Gem Lake was beautiful! Novice or older individuals might consider spikes or trekking poles if physically needed on icy days. Hiking boots with decent tread are SAFER for walking this sometimes slippery trail (depending on weather). Stop for air often and enjoy the view.

Which is more striking gem puddle or Gem Lake?

The rock formations behind Gem Puddle are actually more striking than the little lake itself. Delightful hike that worked up a little sweat and our appetites. Make sure to get your RMNP reservation for timed entry early as they do sell out. This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC.