2023 - West - Rocky Mountain NP - Emerald Lake hike (Bear, Nymph, & Dream Lakes) - August 6

 August 6 - Today was special. You have to have timed entry permits to visit the Bear Lake area of Rocky Mountain NP.   Bear Lake and Emerald Lake hikes are the most popular in the park. Lots of people, little parking, and shuttle buses dropping off lots of people every 20 minutes. Luckily we got there around 8AM and we were able to drive directly to the lake.

Our first hike was around the perimeter of Bear Lake. Afterwards we started on the Emerald Lake hike but only made it to Nymph and Dream Lakes. The hike was an uphill highway of people. Rewards were great with lakes and streams and waterfalls. 

I love when the water is still and the light is perfect so you see the reflection in the water.

Bear Lake - 

Chipmunks are definitely not afraid of humans here. They even pose for pictures. 

Nymph Lake - 

and finally Dream Lake. We stopped here and did not continue to Emerald Lake. We reached our limit in how far we were willing to climb. We were already approaching the clouds.

I could not resist this twisted old tree.

Vaughan and Jim standing in the clouds.