Gem Lake
From Coloradohikingtrails
Gem Lake
Terrific views of Estes Park and Rocky Mountain National Park, some of the most unusual rock formations in the park, and a picturesque little lake set in a natural rock amphitheater, all within a couple of miles of the trailhead, make this hike well worth the effort.
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Trailhead Information
Lumpy Ridge Trailhead
Near To: Estes Park, Colorado
Driving Directions To Trailhead
Note: This trailhead has recently been relocated to the northwest of the old trailhead, and the parking lot expanded. The Google Maps waypoints shown on this sight reflect the location of the new parking lot and trailhead, although the maps and satellite imagery have not been updated yet to reflect it. The turn-off to the new trailhead is approximately 1/4 mile west of the old Gem Lake Trailhead, on Lumpy Ridge Rd.
From Estes Park, take the US Hwy 34 bypass (the road that goes by the Stanley Hotel). Just west of the Stanley, turn right (north) onto MacGregor Avenue (CR 43). The road makes a hard right at the entrance to MacGregor Ranch, after which it is known as the Devils Gulch Rd. Veer right, and proceed about 3/4 miles to Lumpy Ridge Rd. Turn left onto Lumpy Ridge Rd. The Lumpy Ridge Trailhead and parking area at the end of the road.
The Twin Owls Trailhead on MacGregor Ranch previously provided a second option to access the Gem Lake trail. With the opening of the new Lump Ridge Trailhead and parking area, the National Park Service reports that the Twin Owls Trailhead (and the old Gem Lake Trailhead) are permanently closed and will be restored to natural conditions.
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Lumpy Ridge Trailhead
Maps & Images Lat: 40.396486 Long: -105.513089
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Trail & Hike Description
Gem Lake is a small (about 0.2 acre) shallow lake located in a rocky amphitheater of Lumpy Ridge. Although it may not have the grandeur of its bigger brothers in the Glacier Gorge area of the Park, its unique beauty, coupled with the terrific views along the way and the unusual rocky landscape of Lumpy Ridge, make this a "must-see" addition to your exploration of RMNP.
From the Gem Lake Trailhead, the trail heads north for a short distance until it reaches the base of Lumpy Ridge, where the grade begins to increase. Shortly thereafter, you'll intersect the trail coming up from the Twin Owls Trailhead from your left (west). Proceed to the right, and continue up the grade through a forest of ponderosa pine. As you climb, you'll see huge and unusual granite outcroppings and rock formations. As you gain elevation, the views back towards Estes Park, with Longs Peak and the other peaks of Rocky Mountain National Park in the distance, encourage you to stop and enjoy the vistas (don't forget your camera on this hike).
After the first mile or so, the grade lessens somewhat, and the area becomes more heavily forested with aspen, pine and spruce. The trail then ascends steeply through some switchbacks, and soon you are at the lake.
The first views of the lake - surrounded by rocky stone walls - is memorable. Because of its popularity, you're assured you will have company, but the unique setting, rocky surroundings and sandy shoreline make a perfect setting for a picnic before returning to the trailhead.
As with all trails in Rocky Mountain National Park, dogs are not permitted on the Gem Lake Trail.
External Links & References
Suggested hike list on National Park Service Rocky Mountain National Park web site
Gem Lake Picture Gallery
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Click on the picture to see a larger version. Contribute additional pictures - the more the better! |
 Lumpy Ridge Trailhead |
 Gem Lake Trail near the trailhead |
 View of Longs Peak from Gem Lake Trail |
 View of Estes Park and peaks of Rocky Mountain National Park in the background from Gem Lake Trail |
Gem Lake |
 Gem Lake |
