Gem Lake

Living up to its name, Gem Lake is a hidden gem tucked away in the vast field of granite domes that comprise the Lumpy Ridge area of Rocky Mountain National Park. Without an inlet or outlet stream, Gem Lake is a shallow pond filled in strictly by trapped snowmelt and rainfall. The Gem Lake trail is accessed via the Lumpy Ridge Trailhead and climbs for 2 miles with several short switchbacks and a total elevation gain of 1,090 feet. The relatively low elevation and southern exposure of the Gem Lake Trail make this a great year-round hike. Make sure to take in the views of Estes Park, Longs Peak, and the Continental Divide that this trail offers you. National Park Service