Mills Lake

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Elise (my hiking buddy) and I picked this hike because it's too long for the touristas (6+ miles), but not overly difficult since we'd both been out of Colorado at lower altitudes for school. We were NOT disappointed by this hike. On the way up, much of the trail is beside a steam, and then a waterfall. Other than about 100 yards against a bare rockface, the remainder of the hike is in the forest. We saw lots of wildlife and had some nice conversations with other fellow hikers.

The lake unfolds once hikers reach the top of a rock plateau. It was astounding. The beauty and serenity of the place is stunning. The lake sits at the base of nearly sheer rock walls that rise rapidly. Long's Peak is visible, as is the Keyboard.

Elise and I enjoyed a sack lunch beside the lake, while we cooled our toes in the water. When the sun hit it, the water turned golden, as if stricken by Midas. We enjoyed it so much, we hiked it again three days later!

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Photos

The View from the Trail
The entire hike was picturesque, once we left the touristas behind at the first waterfall.

Outcropping
I love the way the cloud mimicks the rock.

Aspens Entwined
All the trees in the area had this peculiar habit...

The Valley
The view we were delighted to see over the boulder rise.

We Girls
After a wonderful lunch break beside the lake.