Gem Lake
A small lake nestled among the granite of Lumpy Ridge, about 2.7 km one way. It overlooks the town and distant mountains and is the most popular hike near town.
The Gem Lake trail starts at the Lumpy Ridge trailhead and passes through oddly shaped granite formations. Along the way you can see a boot-shaped rock opening called Paul Bunyan's Boot, and look back over Estes Park and the mountains. The trail ends at a small lake embraced by huge boulders. It is about 2.7 km one way with a climb of about 300 m, and the round trip takes about 2-3 hours. The elevation is low, so it can be hiked in spring and fall even when there is little snow. Trailhead parking is limited, so arrive early on weekends.
Opening hours
All day
Nearby sights
- The Stanley Hotel
- Downtown Estes Park & Riverwalk
- Lake Estes
- Moraine Park
- Lily Lake
- Sheep Lakes, Horseshoe Park
- Alluvial Fan
- Sprague Lake