The Surprise Trailhead is located 25 miles northwest of Silverthorne, CO in the White River National Forest. Tipperary Lake is one of six lakes accessible in a day from this well-plotted trail network in the Eagles Nest Wilderness Area. It fills a large, marshy basin along Cataract Creek. Visitors will enjoy sensational wildflowers, diverse forests, and good backcountry camping and fishing at Tipperary Lake:

The Surprise Trail rises steadily through aspen-studded hillsides on a S-SE heading to the Eagles Nest Wilderness Boundary (.27 miles : 8,725'). Wildflowers are simply brilliant on this initial stretch, but note that you'll encounter some of the hike's steepest sections on the first two miles.

The trail passes through a large aspen grove (.8 miles) to a stream crossing on a makeshift bridge (1.0 mile : 9,135'); once over it steepens beside a long, slender meadow into a mixed lodgepole, spruce and fir forest. Though badly affected by beetle kill, deadfall has cleared space for new growth and verdant ground cover. Look for deer, elk, bear, and moose in small clearings along the way.

The steep climb continues over a second creek (2.4 miles : 9,905') before easing to the Gore Range Trail split (2.7 miles : 9,953'). Follow signs to Surprise Lake (2.9 miles : 10,044'). Surprise Lake is partially concealed by thick forest and marshy bands between the trail and north shore. Dora Mountain (12,292') reflects in this small, lily covered lake.

The trail keeps west past the Upper Cataract Trail split (3.45 miles : 10,387'), crests, and tilts downhill on a shifting, oft-obstructed path. Note a markedly healthier forest as you progress on a steady westerly heading. The grade steepens past 4.5 miles to the Tipperary Lake Trail split (5.0 miles : 9,863'). Anticipate this sign, as it's easy to miss.

The access trail twists .12 miles down a vague and rugged path to the south shore of Tipperary Lake (5.12 miles : 9,768'). The Tipperary Lake basin is notably large, open, and marshy. The best views across the lake and of Eagles Nest Peak (13,091') can be found on the east shore, but to reach you must either negotiate a cumbersome forest social trail, or tread the lake's marshy perimeter. If unconcerned about getting wet, the latter is much quicker.

Suitable camping terrain can be found just off the access trail on the lake's SW edge, one of few bands of terra firma along the shore. You may also find more private locations on the north and northeast shores nestled in a string of rock slabs. Those with time should consider exploring the expansive basin, and beyond the outcrops along Cataract Creek.