Sprague Lake: A Picturesque Gem in Rocky Mountain National Park
Enjoy an easy, scenic hike around Sprague Lake in Rocky Mountain National Park, with stunning mountain views and accessible trails.
Sprague Lake, nestled in Rocky Mountain National Park, is a scenic 13-acre lake perfect for a leisurely stroll and stunning mountain views. The accessible 0.9-mile loop trail around the lake offers breathtaking reflections of the Continental Divide, making it a favorite for families, photographers, and anglers.
A brief summary to Sprague Lake
- Colorado, US
Local tips
- Arrive early, especially during peak season, to find parking and enjoy the tranquil reflections on the lake.
- Bring a picnic to enjoy at the tables near the parking area, with views of Glacier Creek.
- Check the official RMNP website for timed entry permit requirements before your visit.
- Wear layers, as the weather in the mountains can change quickly, and be prepared for afternoon thunderstorms.
- Consider using the free park shuttle to avoid parking hassles during the busy summer months.
Getting There
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Driving
From Estes Park, drive west on Highway 36 to the Beaver Meadows Entrance of Rocky Mountain National Park. After entering the park, turn left onto Bear Lake Road. Continue for approximately 5.8 miles and turn left onto Sprague Lake Road. The parking area is at the end of this short road. Park entrance fees apply: $30 per vehicle for a day pass, or purchase a park-specific annual pass for $80.
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Shuttle
During the summer, utilize the free Hiker Shuttle from the Estes Park Visitor Center to the Park & Ride transit hub. From there, transfer to the Bear Lake or Moraine Park Route shuttle. The Moraine Park Route provides service to Sprague Lake. Hiker Shuttle tickets are required and cost $2.00 per reservation. Park entrance fees and timed-entry permits still apply.
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Walking
From the Sprague Lake parking area, the trailhead is easily accessible. The 0.9-mile loop trail begins near the bridge to the left of the parking area. The trail is relatively flat and well-maintained, making it suitable for a leisurely walk around the lake.
Discover more about Sprague Lake
Iconic landmarks you can’t miss
Tour Estes Park
7.9 km
Explore the stunning natural beauty, outdoor adventures, and charming culture of Estes Park, your gateway to the Rocky Mountains.
Red Rose Rock Shop
8.5 km
Explore the Red Rose Rock Shop in Estes Park – a gem of natural wonders showcasing exquisite rocks, minerals, and unique souvenirs.
Aspen Winds on Fall River
8.5 km
Discover tranquility at Aspen Winds on Fall River, a perfect lodge for nature lovers and adventure seekers in Estes Park, Colorado.
The Wapiti Colorado Pub
8.6 km
Discover the flavors of Colorado at The Wapiti Colorado Pub in Estes Park, where local craft beers and delicious comfort food await.
Estes Park Brewery
8.7 km
Discover the flavors of Estes Park at Estes Park Brewery, where craft beer meets stunning mountain views and delicious pub fare.
Fun City
8.8 km
Discover endless fun for the whole family at Fun City, Estes Park's ultimate amusement park, featuring go-karts, miniature golf, and more!
Mrs. Walsh's Garden
9.0 km
Discover the tranquil beauty of Mrs. Walsh's Garden in Estes Park, a serene retreat filled with vibrant flora and enchanting sculptures.
Estes Park Aerial Tramway
9.0 km
Experience breathtaking views and adventure at Estes Park Aerial Tramway, a premier mountain cable car attraction in the heart of Colorado's Rockies.
Performance Park
9.0 km
Discover the stunning Performance Park in Estes Park, Colorado - where breathtaking nature meets captivating performances in an enchanting amphitheater.
Snowy Peaks Winery
9.0 km
Experience the perfect blend of exquisite local wines and breathtaking Rocky Mountain views at Snowy Peaks Winery in Estes Park, Colorado.
THE BARREL
9.1 km
Discover The Barrel in Estes Park: a delightful beer garden offering craft brews, cocktails, and stunning views of the Colorado mountains.
The Water Wheel
9.1 km
Discover the enchanting Water Wheel in Estes Park, a serene landmark that beautifully combines nature, history, and family fun.
Penelope's Old Time Burgers
9.1 km
Enjoy mouthwatering burgers and a nostalgic atmosphere at Penelope's Old Time Burgers in Estes Park, the perfect stop for travelers seeking a hearty meal.
Estes Park Webcams
9.2 km
Discover the breathtaking views of Estes Park through live webcams, showcasing the beauty of the Rocky Mountains and local events in Colorado.
Estes Park Distilling Co.
9.2 km
Experience the essence of Colorado at Estes Park Distilling Co., where handcrafted spirits meet breathtaking mountain views.
Unmissable attractions to see
Hollowell Park
2.4 km
Find serenity at Hollowell Park in Rocky Mountain National Park, with stunning views, picnic spots, and easy hiking trails.
Glacier Gorge Junction Trailhead
3.3 km
Explore Rocky Mountain National Park's stunning trails from Glacier Gorge Junction, a hiker's paradise with alpine lakes and waterfalls.
Alberta Falls
3.4 km
Hike to a stunning 30-foot waterfall through beautiful forests in Rocky Mountain National Park. An easy and accessible natural wonder near Estes Park.
Bear Lake Trailhead
3.7 km
Discover the breathtaking beauty of Bear Lake Trailhead in Rocky Mountain National Park, an outdoor haven for hiking and nature enthusiasts alike.
Bear Lake Trail
3.7 km
Discover stunning alpine scenery on an easy loop trail around picturesque Bear Lake in Rocky Mountain National Park.
Moraine Park
3.8 km
Discover Moraine Park in Rocky Mountain National Park: A glacier-carved valley offering hiking, wildlife, and stunning mountain views year-round.
Fern Lake Trailhead
4.5 km
Hike to a serene alpine lake through diverse landscapes in Rocky Mountain National Park near Estes Park, Colorado.
Lake Haiyaha To Mills/Loch Jct Trl
4.5 km
Discover the turquoise waters and rugged beauty of Lake Haiyaha in Rocky Mountain National Park, Colorado.
Moraine Park Discovery Center
4.6 km
Explore the glacial history and natural wonders of Rocky Mountain National Park at the Moraine Park Discovery Center.
Moraine Park Amphitheater
4.7 km
Discover Moraine Park Amphitheater, a stunning natural venue in Estes Park, perfect for performances and connecting with nature's beauty.
Dream Lake
4.8 km
Hike to a fairytale: Dream Lake in Rocky Mountain National Park offers stunning views and an easy escape into alpine beauty.
Eagle Cliff Mountain
4.9 km
Hike Eagle Cliff Mountain for breathtaking views of Estes Park and the majestic Rocky Mountain National Park.
Lake Haiyaha
5.1 km
Discover Lake Haiyaha in Rocky Mountain National Park: A moderate hike to stunning alpine views and unique turquoise waters.
Emerald Lake
5.4 km
Hike to Emerald Lake in Rocky Mountain National Park for breathtaking alpine scenery and emerald-green waters.
Rocky Mountain Day Hikes, a Website of hiking trails in Rocky Mountain National Park
5.4 km
Your guide to unforgettable hiking experiences in Rocky Mountain National Park, with trail information, tips, and practical advice.
Essential places to dine
The Rock Inn Mountain Tavern
6.3 km
Experience the best of American cuisine and craft brews at The Rock Inn Mountain Tavern in Estes Park – your cozy retreat after exploring nature's wonders.
Twin Owls Steakhouse
6.5 km
Experience exceptional steaks and American cuisine at Twin Owls Steakhouse in Estes Park – where quality meets stunning mountain views.
Bird & Jim
7.0 km
Discover Bird & Jim: An exceptional dining experience featuring local American cuisine and stunning views in Estes Park.
Boss Burgers and Gyros
7.3 km
Indulge in mouth-watering burgers and authentic gyros at Boss Burgers and Gyros – your go-to spot in scenic Estes Park.
Smokin' Dave's BBQ - ESTES PARK
7.5 km
Experience mouthwatering barbecue at Smokin' Dave's BBQ in Estes Park - where smoky flavors meet stunning mountain views.
Coffee on the Rocks
8.4 km
Discover Coffee on the Rocks in Estes Park – where quality brews meet breathtaking mountain views for an unforgettable experience.
Rivers Edge BBQ
8.6 km
Experience mouthwatering barbecue at Rivers Edge BBQ in Estes Park – where flavor meets nature's beauty.
The View Restaurant
8.8 km
Discover exquisite American cuisine amidst breathtaking mountain views at The View Restaurant in Estes Park.
Sweet Basilico Cafe
8.9 km
Discover authentic Italian flavors amidst stunning mountain views at Sweet Basilico Cafe in Estes Park.
Big Horn Restaurant
9.0 km
Experience family-friendly dining at Big Horn Restaurant in Estes Park with delicious American cuisine perfect for all tastes and budgets.
Twisted Griffin Irish Pub & Restaurant
9.1 km
Discover authentic Irish cuisine and warm hospitality at Twisted Griffin in Estes Park—your perfect dining destination in Colorado.
The Grubsteak Restaurant
9.1 km
Discover The Grubsteak Restaurant in Estes Park – where exceptional steaks meet warm hospitality amidst stunning mountain views.
CAFE DE PHO THAI
9.2 km
Experience authentic Vietnamese and Thai flavors at Café de Pho Thai in Estes Park – where culinary delight meets scenic beauty.
MollyB Restaurant
9.2 km
Experience delightful American cuisine at MollyB Restaurant in Estes Park - where great food meets stunning mountain views.
The Wild Rose Restaurant
9.2 km
Experience the best of American and European cuisine at The Wild Rose Restaurant in Estes Park—where unique flavors meet stunning mountain views.
Markets, malls and hidden boutiques
The Mad Moose
7.1 km
Explore The Mad Moose for top outdoor gear and unique souvenirs in Estes Park, the gateway to Rocky Mountain National Park.
The Village Store of Estes Park
7.1 km
Discover the charm of The Village Store in Estes Park, a perfect blend of clothing, gifts, and souvenirs for every traveler.
Wild Horse Gift Shop
7.6 km
Explore the Wild Horse Gift Shop for unique souvenirs and local crafts in the heart of Estes Park, Colorado.
The Trading Post of the Rockies
8.5 km
Explore a treasure trove of unique souvenirs and local crafts at The Trading Post of the Rockies in scenic Estes Park.
Lizzie's Boutique
8.9 km
Explore Lizzie's Boutique in Estes Park for unique gifts and local treasures that capture the essence of Colorado's natural beauty.
Omnibus
9.1 km
Explore Omnibus in Estes Park, where exquisite handcrafted jewelry meets local artistry and charm.
Over The Edge
9.1 km
Discover unique gifts and local treasures in Estes Park at Over The Edge, where Colorado's spirit comes alive through stunning artisan creations.
Favorite Things
9.1 km
Explore Favorite Things in Estes Park for unique gifts, local art, and memorable souvenirs that capture the essence of Colorado.
The Whispering Wood
9.1 km
Discover unique handcrafted souvenirs that capture the spirit of Estes Park at The Whispering Wood, your go-to store for local treasures.
Country West City East Gifts
9.1 km
Discover unique souvenirs and local artisan gifts at Country West City East Gifts in Estes Park, a charming destination for every traveler.
Annie's
9.1 km
Discover unique gifts and local crafts at Annie's, a charming gift shop in Estes Park, CO, surrounded by the stunning beauty of the Rockies.
Rocky Mountain Souvenirs
9.1 km
Discover unique gifts and apparel that embody the spirit of the Rockies at Rocky Mountain Souvenirs in Estes Park.
Cabin Fever of Estes Park Co
9.1 km
Explore Cabin Fever in Estes Park for unique handmade jewelry and artisan crafts that capture the essence of Colorado's rich cultural heritage.
Estes Park 5 & 10
9.2 km
Explore Estes Park 5 & 10 for a delightful selection of unique souvenirs and gifts that capture the spirit of Colorado's majestic mountains.
Estes Park Souvenirs
9.2 km
Discover an array of unique gifts and local crafts at Estes Park Souvenirs, capturing the essence of Colorado's charm and beauty.
Essential bars & hidden hideouts
Rock Cut Brewing Company
9.0 km
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Full Throttle Distillery & Grill Estes Park
9.1 km
Discover the flavors of Colorado at Full Throttle Distillery & Grill, where hearty meals and local spirits unite in a vibrant atmosphere.
Lonigans Saloon Nightclub & Grill, An Irish Pub
9.2 km
Discover the vibrant atmosphere of Lonigans Saloon Nightclub & Grill, a perfect blend of Irish pub charm and delightful grill cuisine in Estes Park.
Wheel Bar
9.3 km
Discover the lively atmosphere and innovative cocktails at The Wheel Bar, Estes Park's favorite cocktail destination for locals and tourists alike.
The Bull Pin - Elevated Entertainment
10.0 km
Experience fun and excitement at The Bull Pin in Estes Park, featuring bowling, billiards, and arcade games for all ages.
Avant Garde Aleworks
10.0 km
Discover the essence of craft brewing at Avant Garde Aleworks, where exceptional beers meet stunning mountain views in Estes Park, Colorado.
The Whiskey Bar At The Cascades Restaurant
10.0 km
Discover the elegance of The Whiskey Bar At The Cascades in Estes Park, where fine whiskeys and stunning mountain views meet in perfect harmony.
Lumpy Ridge Brewing Co.
10.0 km
Experience the best of Colorado's craft brewery scene at Lumpy Ridge Brewing Co., where unique flavors and stunning mountain views await.
217 Wine Bar
10.0 km
Discover the best selection of fine wines at 217 Wine Bar in Estes Park, where scenic views meet exquisite flavors for a perfect evening.
Pits & Stems
41.7 km
Discover the vibrant atmosphere of Pits & Stems, Boulder’s premier cocktail bar known for its innovative drinks and welcoming ambiance.
Press Play Bar LP
43.3 km
Discover the joy of retro gaming and craft beverages at Press Play Bar in Boulder, where every visit promises fun and unforgettable memories.
License No. 1
43.3 km
Discover the heart of Boulder's nightlife at License No. 1, where live music meets delicious dining in a vibrant atmosphere.
West End Tavern
43.4 km
Discover the West End Tavern in Boulder, Colorado – a lively bar with stunning rooftop views, delicious food, and a vibrant atmosphere perfect for unwinding.
The Corner Bar
43.4 km
Experience the vibrant atmosphere and delicious grilled dishes at The Corner Bar in Boulder, a perfect stop for food lovers and socializers alike.
The Bitter Bar
43.4 km
Discover The Bitter Bar, Boulder’s premier cocktail destination, offering unique drinks and a vibrant ambiance for a perfect night out.
