Lake Emma

This geocache is part of Colorado's South Park GeoTour, which means you can win prizes by finding 20 or more caches. Visit our website for more information and to download your GeoTour Passport!

Container Type: Lock & Lock
Code Location: Inside container
Access Info: This cache is located on USFS property, but you will cross pirvate property to access the cache. Please stay on the trail until you reach the lake.
Winter Access:  Winter access is possible but not recommended without winter safety equipment and training.

Lake Emma is a secluded retreat nestled amongst the highest mountains in South Park. To reach Lake Emma, you will pass through the mining history of the Alma Mining District and important sites such as Buckskin Joe, the Paris Mill, and the Sweet Home Mine. Buckskin Road travels higher and higher into the Mosquito Range until you reach Kite Lake, a popular trailhead for hikers hoping to climb four Fourteeners in one day. Although the Kite Lake Trailhead is crowded throughout the summer you will likely find solitude while hiking the less frequented trail to Lake Emma, as outlined in this brochure by the Mosquito Range Heritage Initiative.

Headwaters of Buckskin Creek at Lake Emma

From Highway 9, take Buckskin Road (county road 8) west as far as your vehicle is capable of going. There are some pull outs along the road but if you make it the 6 miles to Kite Lake you must pay $3 to park. From the Kite Lake Trailhead, follow the Lake Emma Trail up to the lake. Please note that although the hike from Kite Lake is short, this is at a high altitude with steep elevation gain. Take your time and enjoy the views from the top!