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 Reporter |
Summary: This spectacular hike starts out on Gem Lake Trail traversing across some sparsely wooded areas heading towards Lumpy ridge. After about a half mile, the trail begins to gain elevation and the views of Estes Park and the surrounding mountains behind you get progressively more breathtaking. At the three quarter mile mark you need to bear right at a trail junction. The woods become more dense and the rock formations more amazing. Gem Lake is actually a bowl carved out of the granite and filled with rain water. The setting, with vast views and shear cliffs, make this lake truly a gem. Those with a more adverursome spirit can scramble carefully up to rocks on the back side of the lake, to gain access to the top of the cliffs. The views can't be beat. I enjoyed this hike immensely. Trailhead: From highway 34 in Estes Park, follow MacGregor Avenue North for about a mile, then turn right onto Devils Gulch Road at the entrance to Mac Gregor Ranch. Follow Devils Gulch Road for about another mile, keeping an eye out for the Gem Lake trailhead parking on the left side of the road. (Lat:40.39429 Lon:-105.507) Trail Guides for Gem Lake: RMNP - Best Easy Day Hikes by Kent Dannen and Donna Dannen (Globe Pequot Press) RMNP - Panoramic Hiking Map by Unknown (Trail Tracks) Best Seasons: Spring, Summer, Fall User Groups: Hikers, Horses Ranger Contact: RMNP Information (970) 586-1206 Localhikes Reporter: This hike was submitted by Jim Zuber, who has posted 104 other hikes on this site Trail Reviews Page 1 of 3 Submit your own review 
Reviewed by emmi on 7/1/2009 After taking a short hike in Estes Park a couple days ago, we decided to check out this Gem Lake trail. Here are a few clarifications. The directions should say that MacGregor Avenue curves to the right and becomes Devils Gulch Road. It is not a right turn off of MacGregor Avenue. Also, the sign is for Lumpy Ridge Trailhead not Gem Lake. Once you get to the trail you will see that Gem Lake is one of the trail choices. Unfortunately, we couldn't take the hike that day because we had our dog and they are not allowed. We will some time this summer though. 
Reviewed by Scott on 12/3/2008 Hikes on December 2, 2008. Temps were in the low 50's and winds were howling at least 40 Knots an the top by Gem Lake. Perfect hike if you only have 2-3 hours to spend on the mountain.
Reviewed by Viewer on 9/27/2008 I went to Eco Week up in Covenit Hights and half of the sixth grade go to Gem Lake it was absolutly the bst it was fun adventous and the best place i have ever been. PLus the bonous was the exsercise! 
Reviewed by Sharon on 9/8/2008 A wonderful hike with spectacular views! For me this was the first hike in years that wasn't just an easy walk and I loved it! I am approaching 70 and I have double hip replacements (although I do work out) so give it a try, you will not be disappointed!
Reviewed by Nancy on 8/9/2008 It has been years since I truly hiked. This hike was great. Being overweight, I was out of breath several times, but the exercise was great and never overwhelming. And very worth it once I reached Gem Lake.
Reviewed by Jesse & Kassie on 6/18/2008 We started the hike mid morning under the hot colorado sun. By the time we reached the lake, the clouds rolled in and it was very comfortable. We sat and ate by the lake a snack an saw some critters looking for some handouts. We enjoyed the hike and views looking back over the Estes Valley. Very enjoyable, would recommend to everyone.
Reviewed by Gina on 10/28/2007 I loved this hike. The climb gets a bit steep at points, but the view is unbelievable. Whatever you do, do not turn back half way through...
Reviewed by Matt on 10/12/2007 A great time to visit this hike is when the Aspens are in full Autumn Fire, as we did recently. Great views of Estes Park on the way up; good for family and kids. Take lots of snack and water to keep 'em happy. Notice: Traveling in the backcountry can be hazardous. You are responsible for informing yourself about these hazards and taking necessary precautions. Information on this web site comes from volunteer reporters and may contain errors or omissions. A current guidebook and proper equipment are essential for safe enjoyment of the hikes posted on this site. Keys: Colorado Hiking, Colorado Trails, Colorado Hikes, Larimer County Hiking, Larimer County Trails, Larimer County Hikes | |||||||||||||||||||||||||||
