Day Hike to Gem Lake

Mills family reunion in Estes Park, Colorado...   A perfect time for some day hiking.   This hike was different in that our crew consisted of 15 people or so.  We were looking for a hike manageable for kids naive to hiking.  As well, a trailhead that can be accessed at Rocky Mountain National Park, without paying national park admission fees.  Gem Lake on the northeast side of the park...  PERFECT!

This hike is 3.4 miles, out and back,  and it gains about 1000 feet in altitude.  Don't be intimidated by the altitude.   Just like the tortoise and the hare,  slow and steady wins the race.  And the win is in the incredible views.  The kids ranged in ages from 4-14.  Our kids, and others, were quite used to hiking and had a blast the whole way.  A couple kids, not used to hiking, got a little warn out, but seemed to perk up after appropriate snacks and rest time.

So the views...  A couple points along the way, there are great views of Estes Park below and the surroundings mountains.  And Gem Lake at the top, though small, is something to see.  It is surrounded by rock walls, but there is a small "beach" area, just begging for kids to wade on in.  Keep this in mind...  kids love hiking and backpacking by water.  Let them take their time and enjoy it.  And that we did.  Shorts came off so the boys could wade further in their boxer briefs.  And when those got wet, no worries, just go commando.  In all, it was smiles all around.  And again, Jack declared, "That was awesome. I want to do that again!"  

Another great day of hiking...  We will see you on the trail!

-Mama Bear