Rocky Mountain National Park—Emerald Lake
Location: Estes Park, Colorado
Length of visit: 1 to 3 hours
Major draws: Scenic views, snowshoeing, wildlife
Strenuosity: 6 out of 10
Cost/Fees: $20 per day or America the Beautiful pass
Additional considerations: Icy roads, high elevation, cold temperatures, snowshoes or snow cleats recommended, route finding may be required in fresh snow
Description: 2-mile one-way trek to Emerald Lake past Bear, Nymph, and Dream Lakes.  If no fresh snow, then snowshoes not required.  Many other trails depart from busy Bear Lake Trailhead.