Hike Emerald Lake in Rocky Mountain National Park
8 hours
Starting at $699
Overview
Experience the breathtaking beauty of Rocky Mountain National Park on our Guided Hike to Emerald Lake, a stunning alpine adventure perfect for nature lovers of all levels. This scenic trek takes you through towering pine forests, past crystal-clear lakes, and offers breathtaking views of snow-capped peaks. Led by an experienced guide, you’ll uncover the park’s rich history, geology, and wildlife along the way.
At Emerald Lake, take in the serene beauty of the crystal-clear water reflecting the rugged peaks above. After soaking in the views, enjoy a delicious lunch from a local deli, offering fresh, high-quality ingredients to fuel your adventure.
This guided hike combines adventure, education, and relaxation, making it the perfect way to experience one of Colorado’s most iconic trails.
If time allows after your hike, we’ll take a leisurely visit to Estes Park, a charming mountain town known as the gateway to Rocky Mountain National Park. Stroll along the picturesque riverwalk, explore unique local shops, or stop by a cozy café for a post-hike treat. Whether you’re looking for a souvenir, a refreshing craft beer, or just a relaxing end to the day, Estes Park offers the perfect finishing touch to your adventure.
Experience Highlights
Drive through Rocky Mountain National Park
Driving through RMNP is a scenic adventure filled with stunning mountain views, alpine meadows, and abundant wildlife. The park’s winding roads take travelers past pristine lakes, dense forests, and breathtaking overlooks that showcase the beauty of the Rockies.
Hiking to Emerald Lake
This hike features breathtaking views of alpine lakes and towering mountain peaks. The trail takes you through a beautiful forest, with stunning stops at Bear Lake, Nymph Lake, and finally reaching the crystal-clear waters of Emerald Lake. Along the way, you’ll experience a mix of wildflower meadows, cascading streams, and awe-inspiring vistas of the surrounding Rockies.
Estes Park
Estes Park is a vibrant hub, filled with charming shops, art galleries, and cozy restaurants, offering visitors a delightful mix of local culture and scenic views. The town is also known for its frequent wildlife sightings, with elk, deer, and even wild turkeys often roaming through the streets, creating a unique blend of nature and small-town life.
Inclusions
Private round trip transportation from your accommodations
Coffee/Tea and breakfast to enjoy on the ride to the trail
Entrance fee to Rocky Mountain National Park
Lunch, snacks and water
To ensure a comfortable and enjoyable journey, we provide all the equipment you’ll need including hiking poles, micro spikes (if necessary) and an optional fully equipped backpack, stocked with binoculars, field guide, poncho, sunscreen, water and snacks.
Things to Know
The maximum number of travelers for this experience is 6. We recommend no more than 5 adults as the back row in our vehicle consists of a middle seat.
Elevation: This hike begins at 9,400 ft and ends at 10,100 ft. For the best experience we recommend guests limit alcohol the day before, drink plenty of water and get a full night’s rest.
This is an out and back hike that is about 3.5 miles
Hiking boots or athletic shoes with good tread are required
Warm layers are recommended. Temperatures fluctuate and change quickly at high elevations.
If weather conditions are unsafe for hiking we will give you the option to cancel for a refund or to do a sight seeing tour in the national park.
Please know that Trail Ridge Road is open seasonally from late Spring to late Fall
Additions or Substitutions
Trail Ridge Road
The highest continuous paved road in North America, offering breathtaking alpine views, towering peaks, and abundant wildlife.
Stanley Hotel
A tour of the Stanley Hotel takes you through its grand halls, sharing fascinating stories of its history, architecture, and famous paranormal activity.
*Please let us know ahead of time if you are interested in this substitution as tours at the Stanley Hotel must be booked in advance and for an additional fee.
Cancellation Policy
A full refund will be provided if cancelled at least 24 hours prior to the start time. There will be no refunds for cancellations within 24 hours.
