Lake Emma Trail

Lake Emma is an alpine lake located near Alma, Colorado. This lake can be reached via a short out and back trail. This hike is 1.6 miles long and gains over 600 feet of elevation. This hike begins from the Kite Lake Trailhead. The dirt road to the trailhead can be a bit rough. There is an $8 day use fee to park here. The trailhead is above the treeline. There are pit toilets available at the trailhead. Be sure to arrive early as this is a very popular trailhead. From the trailhead, pass the toilets and begin hiking west. You will be hiking slightly uphill on a well traveled trail. After 0.1 miles, the trail will begin to get steeper. Continue hiking uphill for 0.2 miles. Here, the trail will flatten out a bit, but you still will be traveling gradually uphill. As you are hiking, you will see mountains in multiple directions. After another 0.1 miles, the trail will get steeper again. Continue uphill as the trail begins to turn to the northwest. After 0.2 miles, the trail will get even steeper for the final push to the lake. Another 0.2 miles of hiking brings you to the southwest shore of Lake Emma. The best views of the lake come from the peninsula on the southeast corner of the lake. In addition to the beautiful views of Lake Emma, you will enjoy the lake's backdrop of rocky peaks and ridges. When you have taken ample time to enjoy the sights, retrace your steps to return to the trailhead. Lake Emma is open for hiking year round, but the road to Kite Lake Trailhead closes in the winter. The parking fee is the only associated cost to hike here. Dogs are allowed on this trail.