Mills Lake
A breathtaking moderate hike in RMNP leading to a serene alpine lake with stunning mountain reflections.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Fewer crowds, cooler temps
Mills Lake
Best Time
Fewer crowds, cooler temps
Highlights
Must-see attractions
A breathtaking moderate hike in RMNP leading to a serene alpine lake with stunning mountain reflections.
"Definitely the favorite lake we saw and we hiked to Nymph, Dream, and Emerald as well."
🚗 Plan for Parking & Shuttles
Parking at Glacier Gorge fills FAST. Use the RMNP shuttle to guarantee access.
👟 Spikes for Snowy Trails
Microspikes are a game-changer on icy or snowy sections of the trail.
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
Mills Lake
Glacier Gorge Trailhead
A stunning subalpine lake reflecting majestic peaks. Perfect for a peaceful moment.
Alberta Falls
On the Glacier Gorge Trail
A beautiful waterfall cascading over rocks, a scenic stop on the way to Mills Lake.
Glacier Gorge Views
Along the Glacier Gorge Trail
Dramatic cliffs and rocky canyons offer breathtaking scenery throughout the hike.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Bear Lake Road Corridor Reservations
Trail Conditions & Gear
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
🚗 Plan for Parking & Shuttles
Parking at Glacier Gorge fills FAST. Use the RMNP shuttle to guarantee access.
👟 Spikes for Snowy Trails
Microspikes are a game-changer on icy or snowy sections of the trail.
💧 Pack Plenty of Water
It's a moderate hike, stay hydrated on the 5-mile round trip.
📸 Capture the Views
The scenery is unreal! Don't forget your camera for epic shots.
Tips
from all over the internet
🚗 Plan for Parking & Shuttles
Parking at Glacier Gorge fills FAST. Use the RMNP shuttle to guarantee access.
👟 Spikes for Snowy Trails
Microspikes are a game-changer on icy or snowy sections of the trail.
💧 Pack Plenty of Water
It's a moderate hike, stay hydrated on the 5-mile round trip.
📸 Capture the Views
The scenery is unreal! Don't forget your camera for epic shots.
🥾 Extend to Jewel Lake
Just a bit further past Mills Lake for even more mountain vistas.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors consistently praise Mills Lake for its stunning natural beauty, describing it as a favorite among many RMNP hikes. The trail offers a rewarding moderate challenge with beautiful scenery, including waterfalls and canyons, culminating in a serene alpine lake. While generally less crowded than some other popular spots, it's still advisable to plan for potential crowds and parking challenges.
"Super enjoyable hike - decent uphill for a portion but much less populated than other trails we’ve done. Lots of wildlife up close and plenty of space to lounge around the lake. Definitely the favorite lake we saw and we hiked to Nymph, Dream, and Emerald as well. Plus if you go just a bit further along the trail you can visit Jewel Lake - great view of the mountains!!"
LeahM 551
"Absolutelly worth the hike!!! 5 miles out and back of moderate climb. The trail was beautiful all the way. Make sure to stop at alberta falls and Glacier falls along the way."
Emma Stormborn
"Easily one of my favorite hikes in the park. Mills lake is stunning. It's also cool to hike it during thawing/melting season because you can hear little particles breaking off and moving down the stream."
Denycia Haley
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
The most common access point is the Glacier Gorge Trailhead. From May to October, you'll need a timed entry permit for the Bear Lake Road Corridor. Parking is extremely limited, so utilizing the park's shuttle system is highly recommended.
Yes, the Glacier Gorge Trailhead is very popular, especially during peak season. Arrive early or plan to use the shuttle to avoid parking frustrations.
No, Mills Lake is accessed via hiking trails from trailheads like Glacier Gorge. You cannot drive directly to the lake itself.
Parking at the Glacier Gorge Trailhead is scarce. If you can't find a spot, you'll need to park at the RMNP Park & Ride and take the shuttle.
The RMNP shuttle system is generally reliable and a great way to access popular trailheads like Glacier Gorge, especially when parking is full.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
Yes, from May 24th to October 20th, you need a timed entry permit for the Bear Lake Road Corridor to access the Glacier Gorge Trailhead for Mills Lake.
Rocky Mountain National Park is generally open 24/7, but access to specific areas like Bear Lake Road requires timed entry permits during certain hours and months.
There is an entrance fee for Rocky Mountain National Park, which is typically valid for 7 days. Check the official NPS website for current pricing.
Timed entry permits for the Bear Lake Road Corridor must be reserved in advance online. They are not typically sold at the park entrance.
Without a valid Bear Lake Road Corridor timed entry permit during the required dates and times, you will not be able to access the Glacier Gorge Trailhead.
🎫 🥾 Onsite Experience
The Mills Lake hike is generally considered moderate. It's about 5.2 miles round trip with around 826 feet of elevation gain.
Most visitors take 2-3 hours to complete the round trip hike to Mills Lake, allowing time for stops and enjoying the scenery.
You'll experience beautiful mountain views, pass by Alberta Falls, and hike through rocky canyons before reaching the stunning Mills Lake.
Absolutely! Alberta Falls is a great stop, and the entire Glacier Gorge trail offers scenic vistas. The lake itself provides panoramic mountain views.
Yes, many families enjoy the Mills Lake hike. It's a moderate challenge with rewarding scenery.
📸 📸 Photography
The shoreline of Mills Lake offers incredible reflections of the surrounding peaks. Alberta Falls is also a popular spot for photography. 
Early morning or late afternoon (golden hour) often provides the best light for photography, with softer shadows and warmer tones.
Drone usage is restricted in Rocky Mountain National Park. Please check the official NPS website for current regulations regarding drones.
A wide-angle lens is great for capturing the expansive mountain scenery. A polarizing filter can help enhance the lake's reflections.
During the thawing season, you might capture unique shots of ice particles moving down the stream. The reflections on the lake are always a highlight.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
Remember to pack plenty of snacks and water, and consider bringing a small backpack for kids to carry their own essentials. The opportunity to relax by the lake and enjoy the mountain views provides a great payoff for their efforts. Many families find this hike to be a memorable experience, creating lasting memories in the heart of the Rockies.
🚶 Budget Travelers
Packing your own food and drinks for the hike will save you money compared to purchasing items in the park. The stunning natural beauty of Mills Lake and its surroundings offers immense value, providing a world-class experience without the need for expensive tours or attractions.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
The Mills Lake Hike: A Detailed Look
The path begins with a steady ascent, leading you past the picturesque Alberta Falls, a must-see cascade that provides a refreshing auditory and visual break. As you continue, the trail navigates through rocky canyons and cliffside sections, offering glimpses of the dramatic landscape that defines Glacier Gorge. This part of the hike is known for its rugged beauty and impressive geological formations.
Upon arrival at Mills Lake, you're greeted by a breathtaking subalpine environment. The lake itself is a serene expanse of clear water, often mirroring the towering peaks that surround it, including views of Longs Peak. The shoreline provides ample space to relax, picnic, and soak in the panoramic mountain vistas. For those seeking an extended adventure, the trail can be continued to Jewel Lake or even further to Black Lake for even more spectacular scenery.
Best Times to Experience Mills Lake
Autumn transforms Rocky Mountain National Park into a vibrant spectacle, and Mills Lake is no exception. The fall colors, with aspens turning golden, create a truly magical atmosphere. However, this is also a very popular time, so expect higher visitor numbers. Weekday visits during fall can offer a slightly less crowded experience than weekends.
For a more tranquil visit, consider weekday evenings during the shoulder seasons (late spring or early fall). The 'golden hour' light can be spectacular for photography, and you'll likely encounter fewer people on the trail. Be mindful of sunset times and bring a headlamp if hiking back after dark.
Navigating RMNP: Timed Entry and Shuttles
Parking at the Glacier Gorge Trailhead is extremely limited and often fills up by early morning. To ensure you can access the trailhead, the park strongly encourages the use of its shuttle system. The shuttle operates from various points, including the Beaver Meadows Visitor Center and the Park & Ride, providing a convenient and stress-free way to reach the starting point of your hike.
Familiarizing yourself with the shuttle routes and schedules before your visit will save you time and potential frustration. This system is designed to manage visitor numbers and preserve the park's natural beauty, making your trip to Mills Lake more enjoyable and sustainable.
Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit