The 3.2-mile climb up to the charmed shores of Gem Lake may feel a lot longer, but it’s worth every step. Breathtaking views, tiny wildflowers bursting with color, crazy rock formations and the shallow, emerald waters of the lake itself will reward those who choose to cruise up aptly-named Lumpy Ridge. This classic hike rocks year-round, but it’s especially great for when you want to wake up your legs and lungs in the spring, since it is often snow-free well before the rest of Rocky Mountain National Park.
Gem Lake Ridge Trailhead
From the Lumpy Ridge Trailhead in Rocky Mountain National Park, follow the Gem Lake Trail as it ascends the southeastern part of the massive granite rock outcropping known as Lumpy Ridge. Almost two billion years of wind and water have sculpted the spectacular blocks, bumps and lumps that characterize this unique area. At this point, ponderosa pines, Douglas fir and chokecherry bushes dominate the trailside, but when you hit drier spots these thirsty trees will give way to junipers. From early spring through summer, keep an eye out for the countless colorful wildflowers, including wild rose, prickly pear cactus, chiming bells and shooting stars which populate this trail from top to bottom.
Black Canyon/Lumpy Ridge
Trail Junction
After climbing a bit, you’ll reach the junction with the Black Canyon Trail. Veer right to carry on to Gem Lake and enjoy the aspen groves. The trail climbs steeply all the way to the lake.
Take In the Views
As the trail ascends through giant boulders, balanced rocks and odd stone formations, you’ll find many points where the forest breaks to afford panoramic views of Estes Park, Mt. Meeker, Twin Sisters and looming, 14,259-foot Longs Peak. These vistas will beckon to you, so take time to catch your breath and follow a few off-trail detours to soak in the beauty of the landscape.
Revel in the Shade
Here, the trail morphs into a welcoming, cool canyon lined with steep walls and a tiny trickle of a stream. Enjoy the respite, then climb a few short, steep switchbacks to emerge from this oasis. Just as you reach the top, take note of Paul Bunyan’s Boot, a rock formation that lives up to its name. Grab a photo here and continue to climb. Tackle one more series of steep switchbacks—complete with stone steps and more spectacular views to make you forget the pain—to reach Gem Lake.
Gem Lake
After approximately 1.6 miles, the grades mellow out and you reach Gem Lake (8,880 feet), a tiny but unique, body of water carved out of the base of the granite cliff walls that surround it. The lake lacks an inlet or outlet since it is not fed by a stream, but rather fills from snowmelt and rainwater. Enjoy a picnic on the beach-like west shore of the lake or explore the vertical granite walls that flank it to the north and east. Keep an eye out for aggressive chipmunks after your lunch (as well as giant raptors soaring overhead). If you’d like more adventure, keep following the trail past Gem Lake to complete the Twin Owls Loop or to visit Bridal Veil Falls. •
