Beautiful, wellness for eyes and soul.
It was the last stop of our one day hiking tour through the Rocky Mountain NP.
After passing Bear Lake, Nymph Lake, Dream Lake and Emerald Lake we walked back and decided to make another walk to Lake Haiyaha. Befor arriving at Dream Lake the path splits and you can take a left to this lake. It's going to take another 1,2 miles up to an elevation of approx.10250ft. This hike is quite easy, the ground is smooth to walk and its really scenic. Walking trought the woods (like in the video), passing big rock walls, gorges, some little streams is really versatile and we liked it.
After the first 20 minutes you passing a spot were you have a great overview. When paying attention you'll see a lot of the stuff you left behind, some lakes are shimmering in the sun, some you need to search from distance.
In one of the pictures you see a hugh rock field, thats nice to see, if you would climb it to the end, you're going to reach Lake Haiyaha (but not recommended).
After 1 hour your arriving at the beautiful teal water of Lake Haiyaha. Climb some rocks and look for the best place to rest. It was awesome, everyone was calm, enjoyed the majesty of the place itself.
If I would have more time or would be alone here on my own, I would start the hike at the first visitor of the day, just to enjoy it on my own. Don't get me wrong, everyone should see it, but being here alone must be a privilege.
Thanks to the park staff, the state of colorado and all patient visitors to let this place last for upcoming...
Read moreWent up on the 19th for my October birthday hike. I was hoping to see the green colored water, but since I don't see green as well and the wind was howling, it was slightly disappointing. Some told me they could see the green water in my pictures, so I believe others won't be disappointed. The hike wasn't too bad for an older, out of shape man, and the views on the way back down were stunning. It was still dark when I started my hike. It's a pretty cool lake with high ridges and Hallet Peak over looking the lake. Once vlose to the lake, you need to scramble a bit to get to the waters edge. Once I got there, I thought I'd "hike" around the perimeter a bit, but that was tougher than I thought. Huge boulders need to be traversed with serious consequences if you slip and fall. I would just enjoy the views near the trails end. The short hike, 2.1 miles one way, and using the same trail as Dream and Emerald lakes, you can imagine how busy it was. People were very courteous and shared the trail and overlook areas. After I got back down, I drove through the rest of the park a ways and saw some deer and elk and a few more beautiful areas. The Park is currently understaffed but still clean and running smoothly as far as I could see. I'm thankful it's kept open, and I hope everyone takes a bit of extra care...
Read moreLake Haiyaha Hike – The Hidden Boulder Beast
We did the classic Bear, Nymph, and Dream Lake hike early morning, and decided to push further to Lake Haiyaha — which sits quietly off to the right of Dream Lake. And let me tell you, the trail changes character after that point.
The path to Haiyaha is the toughest stretch of the whole hike. It gets steeper, more rugged, and full of granite steps, uneven rocks, and nature’s own version of CrossFit. And just when you think you’re almost there — surprise! The lake is hidden behind a massive pile of boulders. To actually see it, you have to climb, jump, squeeze, and scratch your way through a rock maze. (Gloves would’ve been a genius idea — my hands would agree.)
But once you find your spot? It’s worth it. Lake Haiyaha shimmers in this unreal blue-green tone, almost like liquid emerald. Honestly, this should’ve been named Emerald Lake.
Overall — challenging but rewarding. Skip it if you want a relaxing trail. Do it if you're down for an adventure and some rocky scrapes with a...
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