Bear Lake – Emerald Lake loop from Sprague Lake
Bear Lake – Emerald Lake loop from Sprague Lake
4.8
(1911)
17,923
hikers
Bear Lake – Emerald Lake loop from Sprague Lake
05:44
18.6km
580m
Hiking
Hard hike. Very good fitness required. Mostly accessible paths. Sure-footedness required. The starting point of the route is accessible with public transport.
Last updated: May 21, 2026
Tips
Your route passes through protected areas
Please check local regulations for:
Rocky Mountain Wilderness
Waypoints
Start point
Bus stop
Get Directions
4.45 km
Bear Lake
Highlight • Lake
Tip by
5.51 km
View of Nymph Lake and the mountains
Highlight • Viewpoint
Translated by Google •
Tip by
6.36 km
Dream Lake
Lake
7.04 km
Emerald Lake
Highlight • Lake
Tip by
8.60 km
Viewpoint
Viewpoint
9.48 km
Lake Haiyaha
Highlight • Lake
Unfortunately it's usually very overcrowded.
Translated by Google •
Tip by
12.3 km
Great viewpoint
Highlight • Viewpoint
Translated by Google •
Tip by
12.9 km
Glacier Creek and Waterfall
Highlight • Waterfall
Translated by Google •
Tip by
13.5 km
Alberta Falls
Highlight • Waterfall
Tip by
14.2 km
Glacier Gorge Trail
Highlight (Segment) • Trail
Tip by
18.6 km
End point
Bus stop
Way Types & Surfaces
Way Types
16.4 km
2.22 km
< 100 m
Surfaces
15.7 km
2.30 km
646 m
< 100 m
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Elevation
Highest point (3,120 m)
Lowest point (2,690 m)
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Weather
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Today
Saturday 27 June
22°C
11°C
17 %
Additional weather tips
Max wind speed: 25.0 km/h
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Our route recommendations are based on thousands of hikes, rides, and runs completed by other people on komoot.
Description
If you're looking for a comprehensive Rocky Mountain National Park experience that blends accessible beauty with challenging alpine climbs, the Bear Lake – Emerald Lake loop from Sprague Lake is a difficult hiking route that delivers. This combined adventure covers 11.6 miles (18.6 km) with 1914 feet (583 metres) of elevation gain, typically taking around 5 hours and 44 minutes. It's an ideal choice for hikers who want to see many of the park's iconic lakes and mountain vistas in one ambitious day.
What to expect on Bear Lake – Emerald Lake loop from Sprague Lake
This route offers a journey through incredibly varied terrain and scenery. You'll begin with the easy, flat, and wide path around Sprague Lake, enjoying panoramic views of the Continental Divide and prominent peaks like Hallett Peak. After a short transfer, the trail continues with a gentle stroll around Bear Lake, known for its stunning reflections. The real climb begins as you head towards Emerald Lake, passing Nymph Lake with its summer lily pads and the famously reflective Dream Lake. The section between Dream Lake and Emerald Lake is the steepest, a rocky, dirt trail with uphill climbs and stairs, becoming moderately strenuous as you ascend above 10,000 feet. The reward is the dramatic vista at Emerald Lake, framed by Hallett Peak and Flattop Mountain, with its clear, emerald-blue water. This diverse route suits hikers looking for a mix of easy lakeside walks and a rewarding alpine ascent.
Planning your visit
Given the popularity of these areas, especially the Bear Lake Road corridor, planning is essential. During peak season, a timed entry permit is required for the Bear Lake Road corridor, and shuttle services are highly recommended due to limited parking. You'll typically start at the Sprague Lake Trailhead, complete that loop, then travel to the Bear Lake Trailhead for the climb to Emerald Lake, before returning to Sprague Lake. Be prepared for snow and ice, potentially requiring microspikes, if you're hiking during shoulder seasons in spring or fall.
Trail details
- Distance: 11.6 miles (18.6 km)
- Elevation gain: 1914 feet (583 metres)
- Difficulty: difficult
- Estimated time: 5 hours and 44 minutes
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