Snowshoe Hike: Sprague Lake Loop

Discover the serene winter beauty of Sprague Lake and the surrounding ridge trail on this snowshoe hike! Perfect for beginners and seasoned adventurers alike, this guided trek will venture up the ridge trail, where gentle climbs reward us with sweeping vistas of Rocky Mountain National Park, and end at Sprague Lake. Along the way, enjoy insights into the park’s winter ecology and wildlife, and experience the tranquility of nature in winter.

Snowshoe experience is not required. We'll show you how to get strapped in and give you a chance to practice on level ground before we leave the trailhead. This is a great chance to try out a new outdoor skill!

Who: Open to everyone ages 8 and up. Participants under the age of 18 must be accompanied by an adult.

Meeting Location: We will meet at the Estes Park Visitor Center and travel together to the trailhead in Conservancy vehicles.

Distance: 3 miles

Starting Elevation: 8,688 ft

Elevation gain and loss: 300 ft

Level: Moderate - These programs are most appropriate for those with some hiking experience. Expect to travel 2 to 6 miles over the course of the program and to be on your feet for several hours at a time. Prior experience hiking or walking above 8,000 feet is recommended.

What's Included:

• Park entry fees
• Transportation to the trailhead from Estes Park Visitor Center
• Snowshoes (or microspikes if more appropriate)
• Poles

What to Pack: Plan to be outside in winter conditions for a full day. Please come dressed in weather appropriate layers and waterproof, insulted hiking boots or snow boots.

Please plan to carry:

• Day Pack
• Food/Snacks
• Water (2L per person)
• Extra layers
• Gloves
• Hat/buff
• Sunglasses & Sunscreen

Weather:

Rocky Mountain Conservancy reserves the right to change the program location due to trail and weather conditions at any time.

Our programs proceed, rain or shine. However, if weather or road conditions become unsafe, Rocky Mountain Conservancy will cancel the program. Participants will be notified by email and full refunds will be issued automatically for all participants.

Cancellations:

If your plans change and you are no longer able to join us, please send an email to [email protected] to let us know. We check in with ALL registered participants at the start of every program.

Refunds will be automatically issued for cancellations made at least 7 days in advance. Cancellations made fewer than 7 days in advance are not eligible for refunds.

Looking for another family-friendly snowshoe adventure? More information on Rocky Mountain National Park's snowshoe walks is available here:

Questions? Contact us at [email protected] or call 970-586-3262.

Host or Publisher Rocky Mountain Conservancy Education Team