Lake Haiyaha

Went 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 while visiting.

Beautiful! The hike up wasn’t the easiest but wasn’t too difficult either. There’s rock scrambling involved. Did it with the nymph, dream, and emerald lakes hike! Glad we went. went on 9/17/25 (weekday).

Lake 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 stunning payoff.

Lake haiyaha is a magical small lake with fresh snow melting water and snow mountain 300 degrees around the lake, before you reach the water, you need crawl through many rocks, and when you see the big half dead tree, you are almost there, enjoy the view then. The trail is about half miles longer than to emerald lake, but much interesting than the trail to emerald lake.best one I think!

Lake Haiyaha is an absolute gem in Rocky Mountain National Park! The hike is moderate, with beautiful stops at Nymph and Dream Lakes along the way. The final approach requires some scrambling over boulders, but the reward is a breathtaking turquoise-blue lake surrounded by rugged peaks. Less crowded than nearby Emerald Lake, making it a peaceful spot to soak in nature. A must-visit for hikers and photographers alike!

Beautiful views and steep hills to climb. There are some boulders you’ll have to climb on if you want to get a good view of the lake. It would be good to plan ahead if you want to hike here. Buying park pass and reserving a time slot to get in the park (9-2)and in the lake area (9-6). Otherwise you won’t be able to get in, unless you get in before 9am or after 6pm.

If you are physically capable, then don't miss this hike!! Absolutely beautiful lake to visit! Signage is great! Follow the sign that points to Lake Haiyaha. The intersection is after Nymph Lake and right before Dream Lake. The hike is uphill most of the way. It's about 1 mile from the intersection signage. The first part isn't technically difficult but it is steep at times and with the altitude, does make it physically difficult at points. About halfway through the hike you will come to a spot where you can see Longs Peak. it's a beautiful stopping point. You know you are close to the lake when you see a giant sea of boulders before you. This is where it gets challenging. You must maneuver yourself over/through the boulders to get to the lake. So worth the effort! see the pictures! My favorite hike of our vacation!

Hiked August 13, 2023 August 13, 2023 through the climb over the boulders and rocks we got to see beautiful Lake Haiyaha in Rocky Mountain National Park Colorado August 13, 2023 Lake Haiyaha Rocky Mountain National Park Colorado August 13, 2023 got to see the beautiful Blue waters of Lake Haiyaha in Rocky Mountain National Park Colorado August 13, 2023 some more beautiful pictures of the blue Lake Haiyaha water in Rocky Mountain National Park Colorado