Mills Lake Trail
A steady route past Alberta Falls to a long glacial lake with views toward Longs Peak.
Route overview
Mills Lake Trail in Front Range, Southern Rocky Mountains.
The Mills Lake trail follows the Glacier Gorge system beyond Alberta Falls before reaching an open lake beneath the Keyboard of the Winds. Its moderate grade is balanced by altitude, uneven rock and rapidly changing mountain weather.
Trail facts
- Country
- United States
- Region
- Front Range, Southern Rocky Mountains
- Distance
- 5 miles / 8 km return
- Typical duration
- 3–4 hours
- Difficulty
- Moderate
- Elevation gain
- Not published by official source
- Best season
- Summer through early autumn; verify snow and bridge conditions
- Trail type
- Out and back
Access and logistics
- Permits and access
- Park entrance required; 2026 Timed Entry + Bear Lake Road may be required
Safety context
Check current official conditions, closures, weather and access rules before departure. Check current official conditions, closures, weather and access rules before departure.
Altitude, thunderstorms, slick rock, snow patches, stream hazards and junction navigation
Highlights
Rocky Mountain National Park, Mills Lake, Glacier Gorge, Alberta Falls, alpine lake
Why find a buddy
A companion helps with junction navigation and weather-based turnaround decisions.
Primary source
Explore and prepare
Discover hikes by intent, read the hiking guides, review hiking safety, prepare a BuddyPack, or browse hiking plans.
Route conditions, access, services and transport can change. Verify time-sensitive information before departure.