ROCKY MOUNTAIN NATIONAL PARK – SPRAGUE LAKE

Sprague Lake is a scenic lake in Rocky Mountain National Park, located on the south side of Glacier Creek, about two miles south of the Hollowell turnoff. The half-mile walk around the lake is wheelchair accessible and features boardwalks and bridges with views of Flattop Mountain and Hallet Peak. The lake is popular for Brook trout fishing.

The area is named after Abner Sprague, who started a homestead there in 1874.  Later, he opened a lodge for dude ranching, hunting, and fishing. To improve the fishing, he dammed the far end of the lake. The area became part of Rocky Mountain National Park in 1915 and continued to serve guests as the Sprague Hotel. In 1919, guests paid $6.00 per room with a private bath, and $1.00 for regular meals. The hotel, which no longer exists, stood near the present-day parking lot.
~Wikipedia

Sprague Lake Loop – rockymountainhikingtrails.com

Our recent visit in September 2020 was not typically.  Wildfires were burning in several areas across Colorado; including in Rocky Mountain National Park (RMNP).  We were in Denver a few days prior waiting on the snow storm to roll in an hopefully dampen the fire some.  I think it helped, but no near enough.  We were not entirely sure we would be able to enter the park as result.

My wife and I really enjoy our visits to Colorado.  We are fond of RMNP and the Sprague Lake area.  Since being married here in 2013, we make every effort to return whenever in the area.  This last trip wasn’t all that different than the November day in 2013 when we both said “I do.”  There was more snow this time and the

lake wasn’t frozen over.  The trail around the lake is very easy to navigate and the views are beautiful; even with the clouds obscuring the view of the mountains.