Western Wanderlust Chronicles

No resolutions, no pressure—just movement, fresh air, and time together. It’s our way of setting the tone for the year ahead. On January 1, Greg, Bill, and I continued our tradition with a New Year’s Day hike, stepping into the new year one mile at a time. This year, we headed to Rocky Mountain National Park, choosing Gem Lake for its sweeping views, striking geology, and steady climb that warms you up fast—even in winter.

We were pleasantly surprised to find the parking lot not yet full—an unexpected gift for a holiday hike in RMNP. The morning felt quiet and calm, with dry trails and almost no snow on the ground, a clear reminder of just how mild this winter has been so far.

The Route: Lumpy Ridge to Gem Lake

At the trailhead, we took the left fork, starting on the Lumpy Ridge Trail. The climb began immediately, winding through granite outcrops and ponderosa pines. From there, we connected to the Twin Owls Trail, a scenic stretch that added both distance and expansive views. Eventually, we picked up the Gem Lake Trail, which led us the rest of the way to the lake with continuous overlooks of Estes Park below.

This route made the hike just over four miles—enough elevation gain to feel earned, but still approachable for a winter outing.

A Dry Winter and Dramatic Skies

One thing stood out immediately: how dry this winter has been. The trail was mostly bare, with exposed rock and only small pockets of ice lingering in shaded areas. It felt unusual for Rocky Mountain National Park, but also revealing—like the landscape was showing its true bones.

In the distance, Longs Peak rose above the horizon, clouds drifting slowly across its summit. The shifting light transformed the scene moment by moment—quiet, powerful, and deeply beautiful.

Gem Lake & Its Unique Geology

As we climbed higher, sweeping views of Estes Park opened below us, framed by massive granite walls and winding rock corridors. The geology around Gem Lake is especially fascinating and noticeably different from many other areas of the park.

Here, the landscape is dominated by ancient granite formations formed hundreds of millions of years ago. Once buried deep underground, these rocks were uplifted and slowly sculpted by erosion, freeze-thaw cycles, and time. The result is a maze of rounded boulders, stacked slabs, and narrow passages that feel almost sculptural—less alpine meadow, more stone cathedral.

It’s a place that naturally invites you to slow down and look closely.

A Pause at Gem Lake

At the lake, we found a perfect spot to stop for snacks and soak in the views. Gem Lake sat quietly in its granite basin, surrounded by rock walls that made it feel sheltered and still. It was the kind of place that encourages reflection—a pause not just in the hike, but in the year itself.

We lingered a bit longer than planned, appreciating the stillness before turning back.

The Way Back

For the return, we followed the Gem Lake Trail all the way back to the trailhead. This route was slightly shorter and more direct than our approach, making for an easy and satisfying descent. Familiar views, gentler terrain, and that unmistakable feeling of starting the year exactly where we wanted to be.

Setting the Tone for the Year

Starting the year this way felt exactly right. No rush. No expectations. Just movement, conversation, and the steady rhythm of boots on trail.

If the first steps of the year are any indication, 2026 is about presence, resilience, and choosing the long, scenic route whenever possible.

Here’s to beginning again—one trail at a time.