Sprague Lake

Rocky Mountain National Park, Colorado

Sprague Lake, a beautiful, placid 13-acre lake in the heart of the Rocky Mountains, is one of the most popular destinations in the park—it’s no wonder it draws a crowd, a level, all-accessible, family friendly, 4-season paved path encircles the lake and stunning views of the Continental Divide reflect in the water’s mirror-like surface.

The trailhead, located off Bear Lake Road, can be accessed from the ample parking area by crossing a small footbridge spanning a stream—to ensure the best views and a better chance at snagging a parking spot, arrive as early as possible. The lake’s waters are the most calm in early morning, giving you the best chance at seeing the mountains reflected on the surface—spectacular views of Half Mountain, Thatchtop Mountain, Taylor Peak, Otis Peak, Hallett Peak, Flattop Mountain, and Notchtop Mountain can be seen from the far end of the lake.

Benches, strategically placed lakeside throughout the trail, provide the perfect place to stop, rest and soak in the incredible scenery. Hikers can choose to circumnavigate the lake in a clockwise or counter-clockwise direction, either direction offers the same jaw-dropping vistas—the entire hike is a mere half-mile, looping around on an essentially flat surface with no elevation gain.