Nestled within Rocky Mountain National Park, Bear Lake and its surrounding area are true gems, featuring a plethora of stunning glacial lakes. This particular hike lets you explore four of the most picturesque: Emerald, Haiyaha, Dream, and Nymph Lakes. What’s fantastic about this route is that it allows you to see all four without retracing your steps.
Ready for an incredible adventure? Here’s how to tackle this hike.
About the Hike
– Distance: 6.7 miles
– Type: Loop
– Average Time: 3 – 3.5 hours
– Difficulty: Moderate
– Dog Friendly: No
There are numerous ways to explore the Bear Lake area, but this 4-lake loop, one of my favorites, takes you through Lake Haiyaha, Emerald, Dream, and Nymph without much backtracking. It’s not the shortest route, but it adds a visit to the scenic Alberta Falls. If you’re planning to hike Sky Pond, you can shorten the loop, cutting about 1.7 miles.
Make sure to loop around Bear Lake if you haven’t already—it’s a short but worthwhile detour.
Trailhead & Parking
The trailhead is located at the end of Bear Corridor Road, right at the Bear Lake parking area. While the parking lot is quite spacious, it fills up quickly—by 6 a.m., it’s already a quarter to half full. Arriving by 6:30 or 7:00 a.m. should secure you a spot. If the lot is full, a shuttle from the Park & Ride lot across from the Glacier Basin Campground runs frequently.
Access to Bear Lake requires a Park Pass and a Timed Entry ticket, even for the Park & Ride lot. Alternatively, you can use the Hiker Shuttle, but reservations are necessary.
Best Time to Visit
The ideal time to hike the Four Lake Loop is from July to September, when the weather is warmest. Be prepared for sudden rainstorms and afternoon thunderstorms. The hike is also accessible in winter, offering a unique experience as the lakes freeze over. However, winter access can be tricky, with many roads closed, so proper equipment and planning are essential.
The Four Lake Loop Hike
Start your adventure at Bear Lake, where multiple trailheads await near the ranger station and bus stop. Follow the signs to Nymph, Dream, and Alberta Falls, turning left at the main junction. A series of intersections will guide you towards Alberta Falls via Glacier Gorge.
The initial trail is fairly easy, with a small bridge over water and Glacier Creek passing on your left. Alberta Falls is about 0.8 miles from the trailhead. After admiring the falls, continue on the trail to the right, heading towards Loch Vale and Mills Lake.
The scenery here is breathtaking, with sunny spots perfect for photo opportunities. At the next major intersection, follow the less obvious trail to Lake Haiyaha on your right. After a mile, you’ll reach another junction; turning left takes you to Lake Haiyaha, featuring a boulder-filled path perfect for exploration.
After soaking in Haiyaha’s beauty, retrace your steps back to the intersection and head towards Dream Lake. The trail alongside Dream Lake is about 0.3 miles, leading to Emerald Lake, which many consider the gem of the hike. Return to the Lake Haiyaha intersection, continue straight, and you’ll reach Nymph Lake. Although less striking than the other lakes, it’s still a pleasant stop.
From Nymph Lake, it’s just 0.4 miles back to the trailhead, concluding your journey.
Tips & FAQs
– Pack water and snacks: Staying hydrated is crucial, especially at high altitudes.
– Bring sunscreen: Mountain sun is intense, so protection is essential, even on cloudy days.
– Wear good hiking shoes: The trail is generally easy, but rocky sections require good traction.
If you’re planning to hike Sky Pond, opt for the shorter loop visiting Emerald, Nymph, Haiyaha, and Dream Lakes to save time and distance.
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