Trail Description

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This gorgeous, isolated lake sits at tree line in the lightly traveled northwest corner of Rocky Mountain National Park. The trailhead's remote location keeps day-hike usage to a minimum, even during peak summer months. Open valleys, pristine forests, an exceptional summer wildflower display and good fishing opportunities highlight this memorable hike.

The trail begins along a flat dirt road (soon becoming an easy to follow trail) that parallels a lively section of Corral Creek. It travels uneventfully through a lodgepole pine forest until crossing over the creek and officially entering Rocky Mountain National Park (1.3 miles). All National Park rules apply at this point.

The trail turns south and breaks into an open valley through which the Cache LaPoudre River flows. It parallels the river for .5 miles until its junction with the Mummy Pass Trail. Turn east (left) toward Mirror Lake.

Immediately to the south of the split is a magnificent valley fed by Hague Creek. For those with time on the return, it's worth exploring this wildlife-rich area on the .7 mile long spur trail used to access the Hague Creek, Desolation and Flatiron backcountry campsites.

The trail soon begins a steady, moderately strenuous climb for .75 miles through an increasingly attractive and uncluttered spruce forest. Fallen timber and dense ground cover lend to the overall aesthetic. The trail flattens out for .5 miles, then climbs moderately once more along a forested ridgeline up to its intersection with the Mirror Lake Trail (4.3 mile mark, 10,700'). Turn north (left) towards Mirror Lake.

The trail rolls up and down for .75 miles through a thinning stretch of forest lined with an impressive array of wildflowers. It bears slightly northeast through an open meadow, now paralleling Cascade Creek. From the north edge of the meadow the trail begins a moderate climb past the Comanche Peak Trail split, and an interesting cascade two hundred yards shy of the lake. The final quarter mile is accented by scenic open rocky areas and dense pockets of wildflowers.

Mirror Lake is circled by several towering, unnamed peaks. The lake's shoreline is somewhat difficult to navigate, but does provide several good spots for fishing its healthy brown trout population. You can follow an un-maintained route along the lake's east shore and inlet stream up to a small alpine pond just north of Mirror Lake. Marked spur trails lead to several backcountry campsites in the lake's vicinity.

Worth Noting

• The northwest corner of RMNP is lightly traveled, relative to other areas of the Park. This is a good choice for those seeking solitude during peak summer months.


• The valley to the south of the Mummy Pass Trail junction is stunning. This is an especially peaceful area because no main trails pass through it. You can easily explore the valley by using the access trail for the Hague Creek, Desolation and Flatiron backcountry campsites. Look for moose, elk, deer and bear. Enjoy great views to the southeast of Flatiron Mountain (12,335').

Directions to Trailhead

From Fort Collins: To reach Corral Creek Trailhead, take Highway 14 up the Poudre Canyon (west of Fort Collins) to Long Draw Road. Turn on to the unpaved Long Draw Road. Corral Creek Trailhead is about 8.5 miles from Highway 14 on Long Draw Road.

Note that Long Draw Road is only open seasonally.

Contact Information

Rocky Mountain National Park
Visitor Information Line:
970-586-1206