RMNP: Hike to Dream Lake
Of the 4 lakes we saw on this hike, Dream Lake was my favorite. The trek to the lake is filled with gorgeous woods, fun trails to walk on and a rewarding view at the end. The trail is 2.2 miles (3.6 km) round trip and has an elevation gain of 425ft (130 meters). It is an easy out and back hike. This one would be a lot of fun for kids. We saw several on our journey and they were thoroughly enjoying themselves.
To start your hike head to Bear Lake parking lot. From there follow signs left towards Nymph Lake. The first part of the hike you will walk through beautiful forest on a well trekked path. This trail is very popular so getting an early start is beneficial if you are trying to avoid lots of people. In the early morning you might also have the opportunity to get an awesome reflection on the still water.
In the first half mile you will come to Nymph Lake. The name of this lake is completely appropriate in my opinion due to it’s magical feel. There are lily pads that line the lake border and the water was peaceful when we visited. We arrived right before the sun came over the mountains and the woods had a warm golden glow.
From Nymph Lake you continue up the trail 0.6 miles to Dream Lake. There is a nice view of Nymph Lake from the top of a switchback. Along the path there are Aspens. They looked quite beautiful in mid-September as their leaves began to change for fall. Little wooden bridges and paths through grassy meadows were another highlight of the trail. This area of Rocky Mountain National Park is so green and lush it was hard not to stop every 5 minutes to take pictures.
Once we arrived at Dream Lake we were in awe of the scene before us. The water was a bright turquoise blue. From one end there was an amazing view of Hallett Peak. We sat and enjoyed the view for a bit before the chipmunks swarmed in looking for treats. There were two paddle boarders on the water. I can imagine paddle boarding on this lake would be an unforgettable experience. We recommend you continue down the trail to the other end of the lake as well. The path opens up right along the water and you can watch fish swim by.
From Dream Lake you can continue to Emerald Lake if you wish. It has great views as well but is quite different from Dream Lake. Or you can head back down the trail towards Nymph Lake and take a right where the trail splits to Lake Haiyaha. This lake has a lot of fun boulders to climb and a nice view of the surrounding glaciers. Happy hiking!
Four our complete hike, check out our vlog below!
