A Windy Fall Day in Glacier Gorge

October, 2007

Mills Lake is one of my favorite destinations in Rocky. I have done this hike several times, at different times of the year. Since this trail is so popular, the biggest challenge is finding a time to hike when there are few people around and the weather is good. Today was a windy day, with sparkling snow crystals blowing from the surrounding peaks.

During the spring and summer, my attention is drawn to the prolific wildflowers. The hills are so colorful. But at this time of year, the aspens provide the show, and the snow is just starting to outline the contours of the hills. Today, I had the trail basically to myself, with a few little birds that decided to follow me. I think this red bird is a Pine Grosbeak, a member of the Finch family.

At first the trail winds through forested hills. It passes Alberta Falls, probably the most photographed waterfall in the park. After a little while longer, the trail opens up as it passes around the side of the Glacier Knobs. At this point, I was questioning the weather, and wondering if I was going to really get snowed on. But I kept going. The views were awesome!

Finally, the trail opens up further at the outlet of Mills Lake. At this point, it's well worth NOT following the cairns and just wandering around until you find the most impressive view of the lake hidden in the trees. Eventually, the trees part and the expansive lake opens before you. Longs Peak, Keyboard of the Winds and Pagoda Mountain sit behind the lake, waiting for you to be impressed.

A couple of other pictures I took today: