Surprise Lake is a backcountry alpine lake in Summit County, Colorado, reached by a rewarding hike through the Eagles Nest Wilderness near the town of Dillon. Rated 4.8 stars by visitors, this high-elevation lake delivers the kind of Colorado mountain scenery that makes the uphill effort feel like a bargain, with clear water, a rocky cirque setting, and the genuine sense of arrival that only a hike-to lake can provide.
The trail to Surprise Lake climbs steadily through subalpine forest before opening into the exposed alpine terrain above treeline. Most hikers complete the round trip in two to three hours, making it a manageable half-day outing for reasonably fit visitors. The trail gains significant elevation and can challenge those not acclimatized to high altitude, but hikers of all ages make it to the lake. One 60-year-old visitor described it as tough but absolutely worth the effort. The route is well-traveled, and parking at the trailhead can be tight on weekends, though the trail itself tends to feel less crowded than the parking lot suggests.
Wildlife sightings add to the experience. Visitors report encounters with bull moose along the trail, and the Eagles Nest Wilderness supports populations of marmot, pika, mountain goat, and ptarmigan at higher elevations. Bring binoculars and keep a respectful distance from any wildlife you encounter.
Backpacking campsites dot the lakeshore, making Surprise Lake a solid overnight destination for those who want more than a day hike. Camping in the Eagles Nest Wilderness requires following Leave No Trace protocols, and campfires may be restricted depending on conditions. The setting is exposed and above treeline in parts, so be prepared for wind and weather that can change rapidly at altitude.
Fishing at Surprise Lake targets high-altitude trout species, primarily cutthroat and brook trout. The clear water and small lake size make stealth and light tackle essential. Fly anglers do well with small attractor patterns and terrestrials during summer months. A Colorado fishing license is required.
Surprise Lake sits within easy reach of the Summit County resort corridor. Dillon, Silverthorne, Keystone, and Breckenridge are all nearby, giving visitors access to lodging, restaurants, and gear shops before or after the hike. The lake pairs well with other Summit County trail destinations like Willow Falls, Lily Pad Lake, and the Gore Range Trail for hikers looking to fill a multi-day itinerary in one of Colorado's most trail-rich counties.