Sprague Lake in Rocky Mountain National Park
Looking for a super easy hike in Rocky Mountain National park that is great for kids and comes with great scenery? Check out Sprague Lake in RMNP for awesome views without much effort.
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We’ve been to Sprague Lake a few times and each time we forget how beautiful it is. I mean, it seems like the best views only come after grueling hikes, right?
Wrong.
RMNP is full of sights everywhere you go, and Sprague Lake is no exception. Here’s what you need to know about seeing Sprague Lake in Rocky Mountain National Park, and why it’s so great for families.
Where is Sprague Lake
Sprague Lake is located on the east side of Rocky Mountain through the Beaver Meadows Entrance in Estes Park. You’ll enter the park and then turn left onto Bear Lake Road. You’ll notice a ton of people heading to the end of the road for the famous Emerald Lake hike or Bear Lake. But you’ll pull off before that.
If you visit during the summer/busy season, you’ll need a timed-entry plus Bear Lake Road pass. (This post explains how to do that and pretty much everything else you need to know about the park).
What Makes Sprague Lake Special
Sprague Lake is great for a few reasons.
First, it’s great for families. At just under a mile around the lake, little ones can easily enjoy this easy hike in the park. Plus, the path is flat and packed, making it great to bring a stroller on.
Second, this is one of the popular spots for moose to hang out. If you’re looking for wildlife sightings, this is a great one. They like to hang out around the perimeter of the lake, as well as wading in the water.
While we love lakes you can hike to, like Bierstadt, this is a great one that doesn’t require a ton of time or energy.
Amenities at Sprague Lake
The parking area of Sprague Lake gives you access to:
- Bathrooms
- Water Spigot
- Picnic Tables
The Walk Around Sprague Lake
Distance: .8 miles
Difficulty: Very Easy, accessible, and stroller-friendly
This beautiful walk starts with flat path and a little boardwalk to get you to the lake.
Once at the lake, you’ll enjoy a flat dirt and gravel surface that is intentionally bordered. The views begin right away, but as you get to the opposite side of the lake you’ll start getting little viewpoint spots.
These spots help you pause and appreciate the mountain backdrop behind Sprague Lake.
It doesn’t matter which way you go when you arrive at the lake as it is a loop.
If your kids are really little, a hiking carrier is always pretty convenient. But you can also easily take a good all-terrain stroller (<— we used this one for all 4 kids EVERYWHERE we went) or let the kids walk. It’s an easy trail you can take at a leisurely pace.
FAQ on Sprague Lake
Can You Swim at Sprague Lake?
Swimming is not allowed at Sprague Lake. While swimming at most other lakes is permitted (though not encouraged due to temperatures and leeches), this habitat is fragile and needs to be protected, therefore swimming is prohibited.
Can you Paddle Board at Sprague Lake?
Yes, paddle boarding is allowed at Sprague Lake and will give you calm waters with incredible scenery! It does require a short walk from the parking lot to the lake to launch your board.
Here’s our paddle board review and top pick!
Sprague Lake Wrap Up
There’s not too much to know other that how to get to Sprague Lake and that it’s great for families or those who just need an easy stroll in Rocky Mountain National Park. This beautiful lake is very accessible and a great place to take a picnic and enjoy some mountain scenery.
On your next trip to Rocky Mountain National Park, don’t miss this easy hike around Sprague Lake!
👉🏼 Heading to Grand Lake? Check out Great Hikes on the West Side of RMNP
