Winter Hike to Loch Vale

This winter adventure begins at the popular Glacier Gorge Trailhead in Rocky Mountain National Park. Make sure you arrive early as the parking lot fills up quickly! We started the hike with our microspikes on and carried our snowshoes. The park ranger informed us snowshoes may be necessary in some spots but the trail started off very nicely packed and microspikes sufficed.

The trail gradually rises as it winds its way through a forest of aspen. The first trail marker you will reach is at 0.3 miles and is the Bear Lake Junction. Continue on towards The Loch by veering left at this junction. The trail continues to rise from this junction until it reaches Alberta Falls at 0.85 miles. From here the trail breaks the trees every so often exposing sweeping views of Rocky Mountain National Park. At just over 2 miles you will reach Mills Junction with a 0.6 mile trail to the left taking you to Mills Lake, and a 1.9 mile trail to the right taking you to Lake Haiyaha. Continue onwards to Loch Vale by taking the trail in the middle. From here it is only another 0.8 miles to the Loch. Most of that distance will take you through a covered forest on a gradual incline but the final tenth of a mile or so is a steep climb. Trekking poles and traction devices are very useful in this portion. After the final climb you will be graced with beautiful views of The Loch.

Make sure to check the weather before heading out as weather can change rapidly (as is evidenced by the photos!). Make sure you are prepared with extra layers and food/water. It also is helpful to check in with a ranger about the current conditions of the trail to see what gear you will need.