Near Emerald Lake
Long's Peak and aspens
Near Emerald Lake
The view to Hallett Peak and Flattop Mountain from Dream Lake.
Near Emerald Lake
Hallet Peak, 2 am, with moon and Jupiter
Near Emerald Lake
Dream Lake
Near Emerald Lake
Representing the REI NP Centennial backpack at Dream Lake, looking towards Flattop Mountain (right) and Hallett Peak (left).

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Driving Directions
Hike Route

Emerald Lake

4.7 (371 Ratings)
An easy to moderate out and back that culminates at views of Emerald Lake.
3.2
mi
Distance
759
ft
Gain
moderate
Difficulty
BirdingFall ColorsFamily FriendlyLakeLakefrontRiver/CreekSwimmingViewsWildflowersWildlife

Route Details

Flatter
Steeper
3.2mi
Distance
759ft
Elevation Gain
759ft
Elevation Loss
40%
Max Grade
10,131ft
High Point
9,448ft
Low Point
Path Type
There and Back
Description
From the Bear Lake trailhead, follow the signs for Dream Lake onto this well-traveled, asphalt-sealed trail. Hiking is very easygoing along the Dream Lake Trail as it contours at very mellow grades up the slope. Just over 1.5 miles from the TH, you'll reach Nymph Lake, a picturesque mountain lake that makes for a good place to take in the surrounding peaks. Continuing up the trail, you'll eventually cross Tyndall Creek and come to a junction with Lake Haiyaha Trail. Hike past this intersection to reach Dream Lake. Dream Lake is a spectacular, narrow lake that sits in a drainage on the rugged eastern slope of Flattop Mountain. The lake makes for a good resting point on this hike. Once you've gotten your fill at Dream Lake, continue hiking along the trail for another mile until you reach Emerald Lake. This lake is a beautiful sight to see as it sits nestled into the rugged western face of Flattop Mountain. From Emerald Lake, turn around and hike back the way you came to the Bear Lake TH.

Route Conditions

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Contributors
Elle Ossello