Lake Haiyaha
A stunning alpine lake in RMNP known for its surreal turquoise-green water, accessible via a scenic hike with a fun boulder scramble.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
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Best Time
Beat the crowds and heat
Lake Haiyaha
Best Time
Beat the crowds and heat
Highlights
Must-see attractions
A stunning alpine lake in RMNP known for its surreal turquoise-green water, accessible via a scenic hike with a fun boulder scramble.
"It's just as good as all the pictures you see!!"
Book Timed Entry Early! :ticket:
Secure your RMNP timed entry reservation on recreation.gov well in advance, especially for Bear Lake Road access.
Wear Sturdy Hiking Shoes :athletic_shoe:
The final approach to the lake involves a rocky scramble; good grip is essential for safety and ease.
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
The Unforgettable Seafoam Green Water
Lake Haiyaha
Witness the stunning, almost surreal turquoise and bright green hue of the lake, a result of glacial silt stirred by a past landslide.
+1Boulder Scramble Adventure
Final approach to Lake Haiyaha
Navigate a fun, albeit challenging, boulder field to reach the lake's edge, adding an element of adventure to your hike.
The Scenic Bear Lake Loop
Bear Lake Trailhead
This popular trail connects to several other stunning alpine lakes, making it a comprehensive Rocky Mountain National Park experience.
+1Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Timed Entry Reservations are Essential
+2Prepare for a Rocky Trail
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
Book Timed Entry Early! :ticket:
Secure your RMNP timed entry reservation on recreation.gov well in advance, especially for Bear Lake Road access.
Wear Sturdy Hiking Shoes :athletic_shoe:
The final approach to the lake involves a rocky scramble; good grip is essential for safety and ease. +1
Consider the Shuttle :bus:
Parking at Bear Lake Trailhead fills up fast; the park shuttle is an efficient alternative.
Bring Water & Snacks :apple:
It's a moderate hike at high altitude; stay hydrated and fueled for the journey.
Tips
from all over the internet
Book Timed Entry Early! :ticket:
Secure your RMNP timed entry reservation on recreation.gov well in advance, especially for Bear Lake Road access.
Wear Sturdy Hiking Shoes :athletic_shoe:
The final approach to the lake involves a rocky scramble; good grip is essential for safety and ease. +1
Consider the Shuttle :bus:
Parking at Bear Lake Trailhead fills up fast; the park shuttle is an efficient alternative.
Bring Water & Snacks :apple:
It's a moderate hike at high altitude; stay hydrated and fueled for the journey.
Check Lake Color Before You Go :camera_with_flash:
The unique color is due to glacial silt from a landslide and may change over time.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors consistently praise Lake Haiyaha for its breathtaking beauty, particularly its unique turquoise-green water, a result of glacial silt. The hike is considered rewarding, though the final boulder scramble presents a fun challenge. While the scenery is a major draw, the need for timed entry reservations and limited parking at the trailhead are common points of consideration.
"This was the last hike we did, after Emerald lake on our final day. It's a challenging one but quite worth it. There is a boulder scramble at the end but then it opens up to reveal an expansive lake enveloped by a forest of evergreens."
Saminda Wijegunawardena
"This was one of the few spots I requested to go on our vacation to Colorado. This was the best decision. A great hike up to the lake and seeing several other lakes on the way. It is still amazing to me that I hiked 4 miles up a mountain at 10,000 feet to a lake that is so breathtaking!!! If you’re thinking about it, do it!! It’s just as good as all the pictures you see!!"
Brandi Geesling
"So beautiful to look at and be, took my four year old with me on this hike and he did soo good for it being a 4 mile hike! Pretty difficult with the huge rocks to climb your way through to get close to the lake, this is a must see"
Chaunas moore
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
To reach Lake Haiyaha, you'll typically start at the Bear Lake Trailhead in Rocky Mountain National Park. Access to Bear Lake Road requires a timed entry reservation during peak season. From the trailhead, you can follow the trail that also leads to Emerald Lake and Dream Lake. The hike to Lake Haiyaha is about 2 miles one-way from Bear Lake.
Parking at the Bear Lake Trailhead, the primary starting point for Lake Haiyaha, is extremely limited and fills up very early. Many visitors opt to use the park's shuttle system, which is efficient and a great way to access the trailheads without the parking stress.
You can drive to the Bear Lake Trailhead area, but access to Bear Lake Road is restricted by a timed entry permit system during much of the year. It's highly recommended to secure this permit in advance or utilize the park's shuttle service.
The closest major airport to Rocky Mountain National Park is Denver International Airport (DEN). From Denver, you can rent a car and drive approximately 1.5 to 2 hours to Estes Park, the gateway town to the park's east side.
Yes, there is an entrance fee for Rocky Mountain National Park. You can purchase a daily pass or an annual pass. Additionally, a timed entry permit is often required for access to certain areas like Bear Lake Road. Check the official RMNP website for current fees and permit requirements.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
Yes, Rocky Mountain National Park requires a timed entry reservation for access to the Bear Lake Road corridor, which includes the trailhead for Lake Haiyaha, during peak season (typically May 24 - October 20). You must book this reservation in advance on recreation.gov.
The entrance fee for Rocky Mountain National Park is currently $30 per vehicle for a 7-day pass. However, you will also need a timed entry permit for areas like Bear Lake Road, which may have an additional small fee or be included with your park pass. Always check the official RMNP website for the most up-to-date pricing.
Lake Haiyaha itself is accessible during daylight hours when Rocky Mountain National Park is open. However, access to the Bear Lake Road corridor, where the trailhead is located, is managed by the timed entry reservation system during peak season.
While you can purchase park entrance passes at the entrance stations, timed entry reservations for areas like Bear Lake Road must be secured online in advance through recreation.gov. It's highly unlikely you'll be able to get a timed entry permit at the entrance station during busy periods.
If you do not have a timed entry reservation for the Bear Lake Road corridor during the required period, you will not be allowed to enter that section of the park. It's crucial to plan ahead and book your reservation well in advance.
🎫 🏞️ Onsite Experience
The hike to Lake Haiyaha is generally considered moderate. It's about 4 miles round trip with an elevation gain of around 850 feet. The main challenge is the rocky terrain and a boulder scramble near the end, which requires some agility.
Most visitors take between 2 to 3 hours to complete the hike to Lake Haiyaha and back, including time to enjoy the scenery and take photos. This can vary depending on your hiking pace and how long you spend at the lake.
Layered clothing is recommended as mountain weather can change quickly. Sturdy hiking boots or shoes with good traction are essential due to the rocky trail and boulder scramble. Don't forget sun protection like a hat and sunscreen, even on cloudy days.
The hike can be challenging for very young children due to the rocky sections and boulder scramble. However, many families with older children (around 4 years and up) have successfully completed the hike, with some adult assistance on the tougher parts.
Lake Haiyaha is famous for its striking turquoise and bright green color, which is caused by a high concentration of glacial silt. This silt was stirred up into the water by a rockslide that occurred above the lake in recent years.
📸 📸 Photography
The entire shoreline offers stunning views, but the large granite boulders surrounding the lake provide unique vantage points for photos. Capturing the vibrant water color against the evergreen trees and rocky landscape is a must.
Morning light can be beautiful for capturing the lake's colors, especially if there's a bit of mist. However, the unique color is visible throughout the day. Consider the position of the sun to avoid harsh shadows on the water.
Drone usage is prohibited in Rocky Mountain National Park to protect wildlife and ensure visitor safety. Please adhere to park regulations and leave your drone at home.
A wide-angle lens is great for capturing the expansive lake and surrounding scenery. A polarizing filter can help enhance the colors of the water and sky. Don't forget a sturdy tripod if you plan on shooting during sunrise or sunset.
Absolutely! Modern smartphones are capable of taking stunning photos. Focus on composition, lighting, and capturing the unique color of the lake. The natural beauty of Lake Haiyaha is the main attraction. +1
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
⛰️ Avid Hikers & Adventure Seekers
+1 The Glacier Gorge route via Alberta Falls is also a popular option for those seeking an extra workout on the way back. 📸 Photographers
Aim for morning light to capture the best colors and potentially some atmospheric mist. A wide-angle lens will help you capture the grandeur of the lake and its mountainous backdrop. Remember to bring a polarizing filter to enhance the water's saturation. Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
The Unique Color of Lake Haiyaha
+1The landslide deposited a large amount of glacial flour (finely ground rock particles) into the lake. When sunlight hits these suspended particles, it scatters, creating the surreal, almost otherworldly color that has become a major draw for visitors. This phenomenon means the lake's appearance can vary depending on recent weather and water conditions, making each visit potentially unique.
While the color is a highlight, it's important to note that this unique characteristic is tied to the landslide event. Some visitors express a desire to see it before it potentially changes or fades over time, adding a sense of urgency to experiencing this natural wonder.
+1Navigating the Bear Lake Road Corridor
+1Due to its immense popularity, the Bear Lake Road corridor operates under a timed entry permit system during peak season (typically May 24 to October 20). This system is crucial for managing crowds and ensuring a better visitor experience. Visitors must secure a timed entry reservation in advance through recreation.gov to access this road during designated hours. Without this reservation, you will be turned away.
+1Parking at the Bear Lake Trailhead itself is extremely limited and often full by early morning. To circumvent parking issues, the park offers an efficient shuttle system. Utilizing the shuttle is a highly recommended strategy for visitors planning to hike to Lake Haiyaha and other lakes in the area, allowing for a more relaxed and enjoyable exploration of this iconic part of the park.
The Boulder Scramble: A Trail Highlight
This section adds an element of adventure and requires a degree of agility and sure-footedness. Visitors often describe it as a fun obstacle that makes the hike more engaging. It's important to wear appropriate footwear with good grip, as the rocks can be uneven and slippery, especially if they are wet.
While it might pose a slight challenge for those with mobility issues or very young children, many visitors find it to be a rewarding part of the journey. The effort is well worth it, as the scramble opens up to the breathtaking views of Lake Haiyaha.
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