Sprague Lake via Emerald Mountain Trail

Escape the crowds that are so common to the Rocky Mountain National Park on the Sprague Lake via Emerald Mountain Hike. Travel the isolated path through aspen groves, past granite outcroppings, and along a babbling brook before the trail opens up to Sprague Lake and the dumbfounding vistas of the Continental Divide. This path sees lots of snow in the winter and autumn, so make sure to pack a pair of snowshoes for this excursion. It is also worth noting that because the trails are located within the Rocky Mountain National Park (RMNP), hikers are required to purchase a park pass to adventure the paths.

Begin your journey along the Sprague Lake via Emerald Mountain Hike from the trailhead. From here, the Emerald Mountain Trail will guide you west along Wind River. Shortly after your departure from the trailhead, you will encounter an intersection. Stay left here—unless you want to summit Emerald Mountain! From here, the trail will merge onto the Glacier Creek Trail. Hike through aspen groves and away from the stream. Soon, you will pass the Glacier Basin Campground. Continue along the path and at the next intersection, stay straight, and you will meet up with the Sprague Lake Trail.

Stay right and begin hiking around the perimeter of Sprague Lake. Enjoy the vast mountain views as your trek along the trout filled lake. As the route curves you along the shoreline of the lake you will be granted various perspectives of the mountainous wilderness. When you complete the loop, simply retrace your steps along the paths all the way back to the trailhead.