A Serene Afternoon: Hiking the Sprague Lake Loop

Sprague Lake

This past early July, we enjoyed a lovely afternoon hike on the Sprague Lake Loop in Rocky Mountain National Park. The 0.8-mile trail, easy in difficulty, offered a delightful stroll through stunning scenery, warm sunny weather, and some charming birdwatching moments.

Trail View

A Warm Welcome

Sprague Lake

We set off on our hike under the warm summer sun, with clear blue skies providing a perfect backdrop. The trail, encircling the picturesque Sprague Lake, was inviting and peaceful. The easy, flat path made it an ideal choice for a relaxing afternoon outing.

Trail View

Mallard Sighting

Mallard (Female)

Early in our walk, we spotted a pair of Mallards sleeping on a floating log. The serene sight of the ducks resting on the calm water added a tranquil touch to our hike. We paused for a moment to watch them, appreciating the peacefulness of the scene.

Mallard (Male)

Swallow and Blackbird

Violet-green Swallow

As we continued along the loop, a Violet-green Swallow darted gracefully through the air, its iridescent feathers catching the sunlight. Nearby, a Red-winged Blackbird perched on a branch, its vibrant red and yellow shoulder patches standing out against the green foliage. Its distinctive call added a lively note to our walk.

Red-winged Blackbird

Mountain Bluebird Delight

Mountain Bluebird

One of the highlights of our hike was spotting a Mountain Bluebird. Its bright blue plumage was a stunning contrast to the lush surroundings, and its cheerful presence brought a smile to our faces. The bluebird's beauty and gentle song made this encounter particularly special.

Flicker Discovery

Northern Flicker

Toward the end of our loop, we were excited to see a juvenile Northern Flicker. The young woodpecker, with its spotted plumage and curious demeanor, was a delightful find. Watching it explore the area and peck at the ground was a charming way to conclude our birdwatching adventure.

Reflecting on Our Hike

Sprague Lake

Our afternoon hike on the Sprague Lake Loop was a perfect blend of easy physical activity and the joy of discovering various bird species. The warm, sunny weather enhanced the natural beauty of Rocky Mountain National Park, making our short walk around the lake a truly enjoyable experience.

Bluet Damselfly

Conclusion

Overlook

As we reflect on our hike, we feel grateful for the time spent together in such a beautiful setting. The Sprague Lake Loop provided us with peaceful moments and delightful birdwatching encounters. We look forward to our next adventure, eager to explore more trails and uncover new wonders in the great outdoors.

Sulfur Cinquefoil (and a bee)