Mills Lake Hike
Mills Lake is easily one of my favorite hikes in Rocky Mountain National Park (RMNP). It offers the perfect balance of challenge and accessibility, making it ideal for hikers looking to get a good workout without committing to an all-day trek.
Getting There
You can start your hike from either the Bear Lake Trailhead or the Glacier Gorge Trailhead. Both provide scenic routes, but the Glacier Gorge Trailhead offers a slightly shorter and more direct path. If you're visiting during peak season, arrive early—these parking lots fill up fast!
Why I Love This Hike
Mills Lake holds a special place in my heart because it was one of the first hikes Ben and I did when we were just visiting Colorado. From the very first trip, we were hooked! The combination of alpine scenery, flowing waterfalls, and stunning lake views made it unforgettable.
What to Expect on the Trail
Distance: ~5.4 miles round trip
Elevation Gain: ~750 feet
Difficulty: Moderate
Highlights Along the Way:
Alberta Falls: A stunning waterfall and the perfect spot for a quick break before continuing the climb.
Expansive Views: As you gain elevation, the surrounding peaks and valleys open up beautifully.
Mills Lake: The final destination is breathtaking, surrounded by dramatic peaks and crystal-clear water.
Pro Tip: Keep Exploring!
When you reach Mills Lake, don’t just stop at the first viewpoint! Keep walking around the lake to take in the full beauty of the area—every angle offers something different.
Want to Go Further?
If you're up for more mileage, consider extending your hike to Black Lake. This adds more distance and elevation but rewards you with even more jaw-dropping alpine scenery. (I haven’t done this part yet, but I’ve heard it’s incredible!)
Best Times to Hike
Mills Lake looks stunning year-round, but the best conditions are typically from late June through October when the trail is clear of snow. Unlike some other RMNP hikes, the scenery remains fairly consistent throughout summer and fall, with lush evergreens and rugged mountain views dominating the landscape.
Summer & Fall: The trail is dry, and temperatures are ideal for hiking. Fall color is minimal since most trees along the trail are evergreens.
Winter: If you're up for a snowy adventure, Mills Lake is also a stunning winter hike—just be prepared with microspikes or snowshoes!
Final Thoughts
If you’re looking for a hike that has just the right amount of challenge, iconic views, and a great mix of terrain, Mills Lake should be at the top of your RMNP hiking list. Whether you're visiting for the first time or a seasoned hiker, this trail never disappoints!
Have you hiked to Mills Lake? Let me know in the comments what your favorite part was, or if you've made it to Black Lake!
We Stood in the Same Spot
This hike is part of my We Stood in the Same Spot project. We Stood in the Same Spot is an ongoing photography project that seeks to create a shared visual and narrative experience among hikers. Over the course of several years, I will repeatedly visit and document multiple trails within Rocky Mountain National Park, capturing not just the changing landscape but also the diverse individuals who traverse these paths. At key locations, I will photograph hikers standing in the same spots as those before them, visually linking their journeys through time and season.