Emerald Lake Trail

Always one of the best payoffs a high reward to work ratio. The views at Dream Lake and Emerald Lake are incredible. I’ve done this with and without spikes and in May the spikes make it so much more enjoyable.

Hiked on 5/22/24. It snowed a little the night before so trails had some fresh powder still at 7:30 am when we started. Snow spikes/crampons and hiking poles definitely helpful and recommended still. The trail itself was well packed down, but stepping off trail at all you’ll find yourself ankle deep or more in snow. Gorgeous views though and worth the hike - even saw some skiers who hiked up toward the peak and were skiing down.

Dream lake is partial melted but nymph and emerald are still solid. Micro spikes are extremely helpful. Go at your own risk without.

One of the best hikes in rocky mtn national park! Hiked to emerald lake 5/23/24 and snow was packed. I would bring micro spikes as it is easier to grip the ground, but can be done without them. I also recommend waterproff pants, as coming down, the hills were basically slides and everyone started sliding down them.

Beautiful hike as always. The majority of the trail is still snow covered (especially once you pass Nymph). Microspikes are essential for safety purposes. Most people on the trail were no

Traction devices necessary

Hiked 5/22. This hike was amazing! Incredible scenery all around like Bob Ross was working his magic with a paintbrush. We got to the trailhead at 10 am with plenty of parking (half full). We did this before the official tourist season starts (Memorial Day weekend). Recommend not coming later in the day (May) because of trail conditions worsening with melting snow and ice. That said, there was snow and ice from the very start of the trail. Microspikes and poles are highly recommended as many people were sliding and falling. Saw people without that made, but it's slower and a little risky. We made it to Emerald Lake, and the last stretch was the toughest part due to the incline and snow. Overall, what an incredible hike at RMNP. We will come back when it's summer or fall to see the beauty without the snow.

Rocky Mountain classic; going past the other couple lakes you get more bang for your buck

Very doable in just hiking boots but there was a lot of snow and ice present. Gorgeous views, although the lakes were frozen.

Trail is snow packed but made it all the way to Emerald Lake with just hiking boots. I did use a hiking stick between Dream and Emerald but I don’t think it was necessary. Fun hike in the snow!

Good trail, phone died halfway thru. Went to emerald like and back; the way back is easier than the way up. Still about of snow so I had to slide a few times

Trail still has sections of snow and ice. We managed all the way without traction or poles but the last few inclines were taxing. It took us a little over two hours out and back. Great hike with beautiful scenery.

This has been my favorite hike for many years and I have been to 20+ National Parks! The trail is still very snowy and slushy! Microspikes are highly encouraged and I can’t believe people were hiking without! It would make for a miserable hike without spikes plus a but dangerous! Worth it even in snowy conditions

The snow still covers much of the trail and is melting so can be a bit slippery. Skilled hikers are probably fine with sneakers with good grip but unskilled may want poles and crampons.

Got there early had emerald lake all to myself. By time back to parking lot there were lots of cars

Trail with a lot of snow. Ice cleats highly recommended. Beautiful hike. Short heavy rain on Emerald Lake early morning.

Spikes extremely helpful in keeping you and others safe on the trail. Trail is 80-90 percent snow covered. Beautiful hike fun watching folks ski from across the lake.

Hiked 5/19/24 8am. Definitely snow on the trail, did not have spikes but was able to hike through - just some slippery parts.

Incredible hike up to Emerald Lake! So worth it, but spikes and poles really are a must! We got to trailhead at Bear Lake about 7:30 and ample parking was available. Snow was firmer on way up and mushy on way down. Experienced gorgeous blue skies, and sleet all in one hike! Love the Rockies!!

Pretty views, emerald lake is still frozen. Definitely bring spikes and poles. There are many spots that are icy and slick, and areas with steep drop offs.

No fishing permit needed for these lakes- yet! ;) Started snowing lightly a few times and super glad we wore our micro-spikes. Okay without a pole, but you might be happier with one or two! Gorgeous day on 5/18/24.

Spikes help a lot and water proof shoes as the snow is melting. It’s a moderate hike with even a few kids on the trail. I’ve done this hike a few times and it’s definitely a favourite.

Forgot our spikes at home but they were a "nice to have" not a "must have". Other than a few wobbles in the snow didn't have any issues.

Spikes certainly still needed.

Please arrive early, bring spikes and poles. It gets pretty melted by about 10–10 30. Lot was so full by 1030. There was a line of 50 cars waiting to get in.

Easy trek up to Emerald Lake. Beyond that crampon/axe were needed. Turned around after reaching the first shelf about 700ft up Tyndall Gorge when dark clouds moved in. Fun glissading back to Emerald where it turned into a zoo

Yessir

Beautiful as always. Arrive early for a parking spot. It’s still snow covered so use spikes and poles.

Very snowy- spikes are an absolute must. Started around 8:30 and conditions were pretty good then, but by noon when we were leaving it was packed with people and the snow had turned to slush which was much more slippery. Tried to get to lake haiyaka but it was too treacherous with the melting snow. Very beautiful though!