Dark clouds flowing over the mountains discouraged most of our group from hiking to Mills Lake during our trip to Rocky Mountain National Park last month, but my aunt and I weren’t about to miss this hike. A Twitter friend, @RMNP4MS had recommended it highly.

We planned to hike from the Glacier Gorge Trail-head. The trail was initially crowded with families until we reached Alberta Falls 0.6 miles up the trail.

Alberta Falls

Past the falls the crowd thinned and I felt privileged to overhear a teenage boy tell his friend that this trail made him “want to paint a picture with words.” I felt inspired as well. This trail really is about both the journey and the destination. Just when I thought the view was as stunning as it could be – there was another around the corner that stopped me in my tracks.

The trail continued upward and entered a rocky basin bordered by shear rock faces. I was intrigued by how beautiful such harsh terrain could be. Throughout RMNP the contrast between harsh rock, vegetation and water combine to form beautiful landscapes rarely found elsewhere.

A Trail of Contrasts

As we approached Mills Lake the trail was under snow and then crossed a massive rock slab marked with cairns. Similar rock formations plunged into the clear water of lake providing a perfect lunch shot. Areas of snow along the shore added to the beauty. From here we had views of Longs Peak, Pagoda Mountain, and Chiefs Head Peak. Continuing up the trail to Jewel Lake which is bordered by softer terrain and grasses we noticed that the weather was returning. Time to head down.

Though this is an out and back hike, the return offered a new perspective just as enjoyable as the hike out. The rest of our group missed one of the nicest hikes of the week.

From the trail head to Jewel Lake is a 2.9 mile hike. This hike – at over 9900’- had me catching my breath in a few places. Especially on a set of steps just before the lake that I have dubbed the “Stair Master.” Over all this is an easy to moderate hike. The parking lot at the trail head fills up early – plan on parking at the park and ride. Pack a warm coat and a rain shell for any hiking in this area. The mountain weather changes fast.

To see a trail profile for this hike visit: The Spirit of th Rockies

Many thanks to @RMNP4MS for recommending this trail. Check out his forum RMNPFORUMS.com or follow him on Twitter for updates on Rocky Mountain National Park.

Rock Cairn

Mills Lake - Clouds are Rolling In