Mirror Lake Out and Back

This northwestern section of Rocky Mountain National Park is not visited nearly as much as central areas accessed from Trail Ridge Road, but for good reason. The trailhead is less accessible and further from the more populated areas of the Front Range (Denver metro). That said, the drive along Poudre Canyon is easy and scenic, and the County Road to get to Corral Creek TH is easily managed for most 2WD cars assuming there isn't snow on the ground or any major rain events. From the trailhead, head east along the Corral Creek Trail through Roosevelt National Forest and Comanche Peak Wilderness. The trail actually begins with a slight descent following Corral Creek with increasing signs of the Cameron Peak Fire the further you go. At around 1.5 miles, head right onto the Poudre River Trail, crossing the bridge and entering Rocky Mountain National Park (no dogs, camping permits required). This stretch of trail is very scenic along the river with lots of opportunities for fishing or hanging a hammock by the water. At the next intersection, head left back across the river onto the Mummy Pass Trail. This trail was mostly burned and can be faint at times but is getting worn in more. Only a few fallen trees until the closure (Summer '23) at Upper Mummy Pass Trail (junction with Mirror Lake Trail). Along the westernmost section of Mummy Pass Trail, you'll pass the Hague Creek backcountry sites and privy (last call for privy) as the trail weaves through a mix of burned and unburned woodland following Hague Creek. Around 2.25 miles from the Corral Creek TH, the trail arrives at an open meadow and river valley with Hague Creek continuing to the east. There is a sign about fishing regulations and native Greenback Cutthroats. The trail bends left (north) to continue through the trees, this time following the contours along the longest stretch of ascent on this entire route. The grade is never too steep and some sections have built-in steps. Because of the burn, the views of the river valley below are beautiful and continue to get better as you climb.Finally, you'll reach the intersection with Mirror Lake Trail. As of this writing (Summer '23), the upper section of Mummy Pass Trail (continuing east) is closed and marked with orange fencing. Turn left and head north/northwest along a flatter stretch with great views and a nice break before the final kick up to the lake. Near the Koenig campsite and turn-off for Comanche Peak, the trail enters some denser unburned forest and wet areas where moose can reside. The trail continues to climb but the end is near! There are 3 backcountry sites at Mirror Lake, which require permits and bear canisters. The lake is beautiful, seemingly big, and has stunning views back toward the Desolation Peaks, Ypsilon Peak, Fairchild, etc. as well as the walls and rocks around it. Lots of small trout, too. After you've had your fill, head back the same way and expect up to an hour off the time it took to get here (depending on breaks/pace).