Exploring the Stunning Lakes of Rocky Mountain National Park: Nymph, Dream, Emerald, Haiyaha, and Bear Lake Hike
Rocky Mountain National Park's 5 Stunning Lakes
The Bear Lake Road corridor provides a gateway to breathtaking scenic views, a diverse range of hiking trails suitable for all ages, spectacular wildlife viewing opportunities, and camping. This is why the Bear Lake Road corridor stands out as one of the most visited areas in Rocky Mountain National Park, according to the National Park Service.
Nymph, Dream, Emerald, Haiyaha and Bear Lake Trail Stats
Trail Length: 6.2 miles
Elevation: 9,475 ft
Elevation Gain: approximately 1,587 ft total
Difficulty: Easy to moderate
Duration: 4 to 5 hours
Dog Permitted: RMNP prohibits dogs on all trails and in the backcountry
Parking: There is a parking lot located at Bear Lake Parking area, but it fills up quickly. Another parking option is the Park & Ride Parking area, which provides free shuttle buses to the Bear Lake Parking area.
Facilities: Hikers can find bathrooms at the Park & Ride Parking area and the Bear Lake Parking area, which also houses a ranger station.
Fee/ Permit: The entrance fee is $30 per vehicle to RMNP, however a Timed Entry Permit Reservation is required, including the Park Access + Timed Entry Permit for Bear Lake Road and this particular hiking trail. You can read more about it here.
The Bear Lake Trailhead is renowned as one of the most popular hikes in Rocky Mountain National Park. This trail leads to three stunning alpine lakes – Nymph Lake, Dream Lake and Emerald Lake – with the option to also visit Lake Haiyaha and Bear Lake. Suitable for hikers of all ages.
Before I begin, it’s essential to practice the seven principles of Leave No Trace: plan ahead, stick to the designated trail, carry out all items you bring, dispose of waste properly, leave the environment as you found it, minimize the impact of campfires, respect fellow hikers, and refrain from feeding wildlife.
In this post, I will break down all of the details on the Emerald Trail, Bear Lake Trail and Lake Haiyaha Trail, ensuring you have all the information needed for a successful hiking adventure.
Bear Lake Loop
Trail Length: 0.6 miles loop
Elevation Gain: 71 ft
Difficulty: Very easy
Note: This trail is wheelchair accessible
Lake Nymph, Dream and Emerald Lake Hiking Stats
Trail Length: 3.4 miles out and back
Elevation Gain: 771 ft
Difficulty: Easy
Note: The trail begins with pavement but transitions to a rocky and uneven path with some steps and moderately steep uphill sections.
Lake Haiyaha Trail
Trail Length: 4.4 miles out and back
Elevation Gain: 745 ft
Difficulty: Easy to moderate
Note: Beyond the junction, the trail ascends through a dense pine forest, featuring a fairly steep climb. After a point, an opening in the canopy reveals stunning views of the Glacier Basin area. The trail levels out at this juncture, but the final stretch to the shore becomes rugged. Navigating some large boulders is necessary, though not overly challenging. Lake Haiyaha is a personal favorite of mine!
Fun fact: ‘Haiyaha’ is an Indigenous word that means “rock” or “lake of many rocks”, or “big rocks” depending on the translation.
Hiking all 5 Lakes (Nymph, Dream, Emerald, Haiyaha and Bear) Trail
Trail Length: 6.2 miles
Elevation Gain: Approximately 1,587 ft total
Difficulty: Easy to moderate
Nymph, Dream, Emerald Lake Hike Trail Guide:
Getting to the Trailhead
The trail to Emerald Lake begins at the Bear Lake Trailhead. While the Bear Lake Parking area provides a parking lot, it tends to fill up really quickly. An alternative is the Park & Ride Parking area, approximately 4.4 miles from the Bear Lake Trailhead. The Bear Lake Shuttles operates free of charge, running every 10-15 minutes. Additional information on shuttle buses and public transit can be found here to assist your planning.
Upon arrival at the trailhead, you’ll discover restroom facilities and a ranger station, along with signposts guiding you to various trails.
Nymph Lake
The hike to Nymph Lake stretches 0.5 miles. The initial stretch features a paved path that transitions into a rocky, uneven trail. Upon reaching Nymph Lake, you’ll be captivated by the sight of lily pads covering the lake’s surface.
Dream Lake
A half-mile hike from Nymph Lake leads to Dream Lake. The trail becomes slightly steeper and includes steps and uphill segments. Along the way, you’ll encounter a small cascade of waterfalls and cross a stream. Upon arriving at Dream Lake, several viewpoints provide stunning perspectives of the lake. Feel free to choose your favorite and enjoy the view!
Emerald Lake
From Dream Lake, a steep ascent brings you to Emerald Lake. Over another half-mile, you’ll encounter an additional cascade of waterfalls and streams. Don’t miss the opportunity to observe the giant tree atop a rock boulder.
Lake Haiyaha
I highly recommend hiking to Lake Haiyaha – a personal favorite of mine! Just before Dream Lake, you’ll encounter the junction pointing to the Lake Haiyaha trail. Beyond the junction, the trail ascends fairly through a dense pine forest. Eventually, you’ll reach an opening in the canopy that unveils panoramic views of the Glacier Basin area, encompassing Bear Lake, Nymph Lake, and Bierstadt Lake. Beyond this point, the terrain levels out, yet the final 50 yards leading to the shore become rugged. Navigating large boulders is necessary but not overly challenging. Lake Haiyaha provides an excellent setting for a leisurely lunch, with boulders framing the entire lake. The scene at Lake Haiyaha is simply stunning!
Bear Lake
The trail around Bear Lake is exceedingly easy, beginning just a few steps from the Bear Lake Trailhead.
Helpful Tips:
Choosing the Right Time for the 5-Lake Hike
Rocky Mountain National Park welcomes visitors year-round. However, the experience varies based on the season and time of day. I hiked on the 5-lake during the first week of August, which marks the busiest time of the year. You also can snowshoe to Emerald Lake in winter, a popular activity that doesn’t require a timed entry reservation. Make sure to equip yourself with appropriate layers and gear for snow conditions, and familiarize yourself with avalanche safety guidelines.
Essentials for the 5-Lake Hike
Hiking shoes or a good pair of walking shoes.
Sunscreen, hat, and sunglasses
Rain gear- a raincoat and a pack cover, in case of heavy rain
Lots of water and snacks
Camera!
Things to know before hiking 5-Lakes
AFTERNOON THUNDERSTORMS
During the summer months in Colorado, afternoon thunderstorms are common. Given the park’s high elevation and the possibility of lightning strikes, it’s important to exercise caution when hiking on hilltops, above the treeline, or in exposed areas. If you find yourself on a trail during a storm, consult this helpful article for tips on what to do.
ACCLIMATE TO THE ALTITUDE
Travelers from lower elevation might experience altitude sickness. Here is a helpful article offering insights into the effects of high altitude and helpful tips for adjustment.
For more detailed information about Rocky Mountain National Park’s Timed Entry Reservation and Passes by reading here.
