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Difficulty
This reflects the 10Adventures difficulty rating for each route. We aim to keep ratings consistent across regions.
Moderate
Elevation
This reflects the total elevation gained throughout this route as measured by the GPS file. This includes all ascents and descents, and is higher than what is quoted in most route guides, which simply measure the distance between the starting-point and high-point of the route.
419 m
Distance
This reflects the return distance of this route as measured by the GPS file.
11.3 km
Duration
This reflects the estimated time the majority of users will take on this trail. If you are slower, add time to the top-end figure. If you are fast, then you may complete this route faster than this time range.
3-4.5h
User Ratings
These ratings are completed by users who have completed this trail and not subject to reviews by 10Adventures.
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Directions to Trailhead

Mills and The Loch Lakes Hike

Measurement:

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Table of contents

Adventure into Colorado’s high-country along the Mills and The Loch Lakes Hike. This trail will guide its intrepid adventurers past a cascading waterfall up to alpine lakes flanked by impressive snow-dusted peaks.

Route Description for Mills and The Loch Lakes Hike

If you are seeking a demanding Rocky Mountain adventure, the Mills and The Loch Lakes Hike is for you! This trail possesses the perfect ratio of strenuity and scenery as it ascends high into a mountain cirque. Make sure you are acclimated to the area’s high altitude prior to attempting this excursion and ensure to pack plenty of water! Also, remember to check the forecast prior to your ascent to mitigate the chances of getting caught in an afternoon storm. Don’t forget to purchase your Rocky Mountain National Park pass to access the network of trails.

Departing from the Glacier Gorge Trailhead, follow the path over Chaos Creek, and at the junction, keep left. Hike the Glacier Gorge Trail up to Alberta Falls. Pass the cascades and hike along the Glacier Creek up to the next intersection. From here, keep left tracking past Glacier Falls up to Mills Lake. Revel in the unassuming beauty of the alpine lake and return to the intersection after exploring the lake’s shores.

From the junction, take a sharp left and ascend the path to The Loch Lake. Admire the shimmering lake which is flanked by looming peaks. Appreciate the grandeur of the Colorado wilderness, and when you are ready to return, retrace your steps along the Glacier Gorge Trail back to the trailhead.

Getting to the Mills and The Loch Lakes Hike Trailhead

The Mills and The Loch Lakes Hike departs from the Glacier Gorge Trailhead off Bear Lake Road.

Route Information

  • Backcountry Campground:

    No

  • When to do:

    Year-round

  • Pets allowed:

    No

  • Family friendly:

    Older Children only

  • Route Signage:

    Average

  • Crowd Levels:

    High

  • Route Type:

    Out and back

Mills and The Loch Lakes Hike Elevation Graph

Weather Forecast

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