2022 - Tarns' Rocky Mountain NP Trip: September 14, 2022

We had an entry permit for the Bear Lake Road Corridor at 8am, therefore we got there on time to start our visit. The plan was to hike on Emerald Lake Trail (3.66 mi round trip), Bear Lake Trail (0.6 mi lake loop trail) and Alberta Falls (1.2 mi round trip). When we got to the Bear Lake Park & Ride area, there was a big sign saying the Bear Lake parking lot was full, and it suggested everyone to take the shuttle. We followed the advice and got to Bear Lake parking lot area via shuttle around 8:30am. Then, we started our first hike, Emerald Lake Trail.

After a short hike, we saw Nymph Lake. This pleasant lake is ringed by pond lilies and has a nice view of Hallett Peak standing over the lake.

Then, we continued on the trail to reach Dream Lake. The views of 12,713-foot Hallett Peak and 12,324-foot Flattop Mountain from the east shore of this beautiful subalpine lake are simply outstanding. In between the two mountains is the Tyndall Gorge, with the Tyndall Glacier just barely visible from this angle.

The trail to Emerald Lake continued by skirting around the north shore of Dream Lake, while pressing deeper into the Tyndall Gorge. Once past the lake the trail begins climbing a series of stone steps. As you gain altitude you'll pass through a very pleasant and impressive looking pine forest. On your left, Tyndall Creek gurgles down the gorge, while the jagged spires of Flattop Mountain can be seen almost directly in front of you. Emerald Lake is a true jewel in the heart of Rocky Mountain National Park. Hallett Peak is the dominating feature almost directly in front of you. Across the subalpine lake you'll hear the sound of a waterfall rushing down the gorge between the two mountains, supplied by meltwater from the Tyndall Glacier.

After the Emerald Lake trail, we went to Alberta Falls Trail which is 0.6 mile. The trail itself was not as exciting as the Emerald Lake trail, however, the Alberta Falls is very impressive.