Gem Lake – Lumpy Ridge Trailhead loop from Estes Park
Gem Lake – Lumpy Ridge Trailhead loop from Estes Park
3.3
(5)
96
hikers
Gem Lake – Lumpy Ridge Trailhead loop from Estes Park
03:13
10.1km
420m
Hiking
Moderate hike. Good fitness required. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels. The starting point of the route is accessible with public transport.
Last updated: April 19, 2026
Tips
Your route passes through protected areas
Please check local regulations for:
Rocky Mountain Wilderness
Waypoints
Start point
Bus stop
Get Directions
2.53 km
Viewpoint
Viewpoint
4.51 km
Gem Lake
Highlight • Lake
Translated by Google •
Tip by
6.97 km
Twin Owls
Highlight • Natural Monument
Tip by
7.97 km
Lumpy Ridge Trailhead
Highlight • Trail
Tip by
10.1 km
End point
Bus stop
Way Types & Surfaces
Way Types
6.96 km
2.25 km
597 m
288 m
Surfaces
6.66 km
1.75 km
1.29 km
294 m
< 100 m
< 100 m
Sign up to see more specific route details
Sign up for free
Elevation
Highest point (2,690 m)
Lowest point (2,310 m)
Sign up to see more specific route details
Sign up for free
Weather
Powered by Foreca
Today
Thursday 25 June
19°C
11°C
81 %
Additional weather tips
Max wind speed: 6.0 km/h
to get more detailed weather forecasts along your route
Our route recommendations are based on thousands of hikes, rides, and runs completed by other people on komoot.
Description
The Gem Lake – Lumpy Ridge Trailhead loop from Estes Park is a truly rewarding hiking experience, offering a fantastic blend of challenge and diverse scenery. This moderate 6.3-mile (10.1 km) loop packs in 1385 feet (422 metres) of climbing, typically taking around 3 hours and 13 minutes to complete. It’s an excellent choice if you’re looking for a substantial workout with big payoffs in views and unique geological features.
What to expect on Gem Lake – Lumpy Ridge Trailhead loop from Estes Park
As you navigate this loop, often recommended counter-clockwise, you’ll journey through varied terrain, from forested paths to open, rocky sections. The trail features prominent granite boulders and walls, especially as you ascend towards Gem Lake, which sits at around 8,830 feet. Expect a steady climb with numerous rock steps, some up to two feet high, making for a good physical challenge. Along the way, you’ll be treated to spectacular vistas of Estes Park, Mount Meeker, and Longs Peak, with the distinctive Twin Owls rock formations and the massive Lumpy Ridge itself adding to the dramatic backdrop. Gem Lake, a small alpine pool tucked beneath rocky cliffs, is a picturesque highlight, perfect for a break.
Planning your visit
This popular trail requires a bit of planning, especially during peak season. From late May through early October, a timed-entry pass is necessary to enter Rocky Mountain National Park, which includes access to the Lumpy Ridge Trailhead. Parking at Lumpy Ridge Trailhead can fill up quickly, so arriving early is always a good idea. The trail offers abundant wildflowers in spring and early summer, and golden-yellow aspens in the fall, making these seasons particularly appealing for a visit.
Trail details
- Distance: 6.3 miles (10.1 km)
- Elevation gain: 1385 feet (422 metres)
- Difficulty: moderate
- Estimated time: 3 hours and 13 minutes
Comments
Want to know more?
Sign up for a free komoot account to join the conversation.
Sign up for free