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RMOTHG Trip – RMNP - Bear Lake TH - Dream Lake, Emerald Lake, and Lake Haiyaha

Trip

RMOTHG Trip – RMNP - Bear Lake TH - Dream Lake, Emerald Lake, and Lake Haiyaha

This scenic loop begins and ends at the Bear Lake Trailhead, winding past a string of iconic alpine lakes in Rocky Mountain National Park. Hikers ascend through fragrant pine forests and rocky terrain to reach the emerald-green waters of Lake Haiyaha, with the option to extend to the dazzling cirque of Emerald Lake. The return passes Dream and Nymph Lakes, offering serene reflections and sweeping views before closing the loop at Bear Lake.

Contacts

Wayne Howell
Wayne Howell
Primary Leader
  • Moderate
  • Mileage: 6.0 mi
  • Elevation Gain: 1,100 ft
  • High Point Elevation: 10,218 ft
  • Pace: 1.5 - 2.0 MPH

Beginning at the Bear Lake Trailhead, this loop sets out toward the mysterious turquoise waters of Lake Haiyaha, reached by climbing through fragrant pine forest and weaving among giant boulders with sweeping views of Chaos Canyon. From this wild and dramatic perch, hikers can optionally extend the journey to visit the stunning cirque of Emerald Lake, cradled beneath the sheer cliffs of Hallett Peak and Flattop Mountain. The return route descends past the shimmering alpine jewels of Dream and Nymph Lakes, each offering tranquil reflections of the surrounding peaks, before arriving back at Bear Lake—where calm waters and soaring vistas mark the perfect conclusion to this classic Rocky Mountain loop. We'll find a comfortable stop for lunch/snack. Our pace will be determined by the strength, stamina, and endurance of the group. Overall ~6 miles and ~1100 ft elevation gain. (Lake Haiyaha Loop - CalTopo)

Carpool Place & Time: Meet at the Lyons Visitor Center parking at 7:30AM, for a 7:45AM departure (Lyons Visitor Center - Google Maps)

We'll carpool to the Bear Lake parking lot (Bear Lake Trailhead - Google Maps)

An additional carpool location is possible for those coming from the south.

Route/Place

RMNP - Bear Lake TH

Roster
Required Equipment

Required Equipment

Ten essentials and microspikes are required. Trekking poles are recommended.

$15 annual RMOTHG Membership Dues are required to participate. Please contact the office at 303-279-3080 ext. 3 or office@cmc.org to join!

Trip Reports