Fishing · Crested Butte, CO

Emerald Lake

moderateSpring conditions. Water temperatures beginning to rise, increasing fish activity. Shore fishing productive as fish move to shallower water. Ice may still be present at higher elevations in early spring.

Directions

Before you go

Live · nearest station Aspen, 17 mi

Good to go

Good window today. Daylight to 8:10 pm.

57°

Smoky

Feels like 57°

Trailhead temp

48° est. at 10,340 ft

Storm chance

1% overnight

Wind

5 mph SSE

UV index

0 low

Sun window

6:16 am to 8:10 pm

Distance

—

Elevation gain

669ft

High point

11,798ft

Season

Apr - Octpeak now

About

Emerald Lake is a 10,340-foot alpine lake in Gunnison County, near Crested Butte. It is a moderate fishing destination accessible via a well-defined trail that takes approximately two hours. The lake spans 14 acres and holds trout, specifically rainbow, brook, and cutthroat. Anglers typically fish from April through October, with the best conditions occurring between June and October. Dry flies such as Adams, Elk Hair Caddis, and Royal Wulff are effective during summer months. Parking is available at the trailhead, and the area allows pets. A fishing permit is required. The location sits within the Gunnison watershed.

Trail profile

Gain

669 ft

Avg grade

—

Steepest

—

High point

11,798 ft

Good to know

Parking at the trailhead

Dogs allowed on leash

Waypoints

1Main Access Point11,798 ft

2Secondary Access Point11,768 ft

3Inlet 211,129 ft

4Scenic Overlook11,342 ft

Latest water reportfair

Spring conditions. Water temperatures beginning to rise, increasing fish activity. Shore fishing productive as fish move to shallower water. Ice may still be present at higher elevations in early spring.

Reported Mar 3, 2025Verified

What people say