Line © OpenStreetMap contributors (ODbL), checked by Global Adventurer.
The hike
The walk starts at the Lumpy Ridge Trailhead, at the end of Lumpy Ridge Road on the northern edge of Estes Park; there is no shuttle. The Gem Lake Trail climbs through aspens among the granite domes and towers of Lumpy Ridge, with views back over Estes Park, and passes Paul Bunyan's Boot, a rock with a hole worn through its sole, about 1.4 miles up. Rock steps lead on to Gem Lake, a small pool in a granite basin with no stream flowing in or out. Return the same way.
It is 3.2 miles (5.2 km) round trip with 990 feet (301 m) of climbing; allow about 2 hours. The grade is Easy: the walk is short, but the climb is steady, with rock steps near the top.
Gem Lake is at about 8,860 feet, lower than most walks in the park, but you will still feel the altitude if you have come from near sea level. Thunderstorms are common on summer afternoons, so head down if one is building. Pets are not allowed on park trails. From May 22 to October 12, 2026, a timed entry reservation is needed to enter the park, including Lumpy Ridge, between 9 a.m. and 2 p.m.
Route drawn by Global Adventurer along OpenStreetMap paths (© OpenStreetMap contributors, ODbL), with figures worked out from it. Check the forecast and the ground on the day: paths change.
Good to know
- A small pool held in a granite bowl high on Lumpy Ridge, above Estes Park
- Passes Paul Bunyan's Boot, a rock with a hole worn through its sole
- Low enough to be clear of snow much of the year; timed entry applies 9 a.m.–2 p.m. in summer
Summits on the way
- East Gemstone · passed close by
Getting there
Start: Lumpy Ridge Trailhead. 40.39631, -105.51211
Places to stay nearby
Rooms in and around Rocky Mountain National Park: Booking.com → Expedia →
Affiliate links: if you book, Global Adventurer earns a small commission at no cost to you.
Paths change, and the weather decides the day. The line and figures come from OpenStreetMap and our own checks; take a map, check the forecast, and turn back if it isn't right.
