RMNP: Hike to Lake Haiyaha
On our hike to Emerald Lake we decided to hike to Lake Haiyaha for lunch instead of heading back to the car. We were very satisfied with our decision. The hike to Lake Haiyaha is 4.2 miles (6.8km) round trip with an elevation gain of 745 ft (227m). It’s an out and back, moderate hike that would be good for kids who are old enough to jump and climb around big boulders. During the hike you will pass through beautiful woods, a grassy meadow and gaze upon the surrounding glaciers high in the mountains. We found this hike to be less traveled compared to Emerald Lake.
Start your hike at the Bear Lake parking lot and follow signs towards Nymph Lake. After about 0.5 mile you will reach your first stop. Nymph Lake is a small lake with lily pads lining the lake’s edge. There are several ideal photo spots along the trail around the lake. We enjoyed sitting for a moment to soak in the beauty before hiking to our destination.
From Nymph Lake it is 1.7 miles to Lake Haiyaha. We hiked through some beautiful aspens overhanging the trail, over little wooden bridges and next to a meadow with a stream running through. 0.6 mile later we arrived at the split that branches off to Emerald Lake or Lake Haiyaha. We first hiked to Dream and Emerald Lake (see below) and on our way back hiked up to Lake Haiyaha. To hike only to Lake Haiyaha follow the path straight and not through the meadow.
From the split there is 1.1 miles left before reaching Lake Haiyaha. During this part of the hike we gained most of our elevation. From one point we had a sweet view of Nymph and Bear Lake from above. Not to mention all the amazing mountain views as well.
Right before arriving at the lake you will encounter a massive wall of boulders. To get to the lake you must climb over the boulders and then this beautiful scene will spread out before you!
The water was incredibly blue. It was quiet and peaceful. We found a perfect boulder to sit and eat our lunch on. Previously, we have had chipmunks try to steal our food. This time we had chipmunks and a bird interested in what we were eating! Honestly it was hilarious, and we talked and laughed during the whole ordeal. We don’t ever feed the wildlife or leave behind any peels or leftovers, but it was entertaining watching Dave chase away chipmunks as they circled around us.
After taking one last look at the glaciers above that surround the lake we headed back to our car. It was basically 2.2 miles downhill to the parking lot. We enjoyed our trek back as we hiked almost all uphill on our way to Lake Haiyaha. Overall, it was a wonderful hike and one we want to return to someday once our kids get older. Happy hiking!
For our complete hike, check out our vlog below!
