How to Hike Glacier Gorge

The diverse attractions along the Glacier Gorge Trail draw in hearty hikers from around the world. Glacier Gorge is nestled in the Rocky Mountain National Park with lakes, forests and natural oddities along the path. Your hike into Glacier Gorge will reveal the hidden gems within the Rocky Mountains if you know where to look.

Instructions

Difficulty: Moderate

Things You’ll Need:

• Boots
• Picnic basket
• Outdoor jacket
• Hiking pants

1. Trade your car for a shuttle bus to reach Glacier Gorge without dealing with parking concerns. A limited number of parking spaces at Rocky Mountain National Park makes the bus from Glacier Basin Campground a necessity.
2. Set foot on the trail to Glacier Gorge ahead of the entrance at Bear Lake. The trailhead is located about a mile away from the lake on Bear Lake Road.
3. Anticipate physical problems with rapid elevation before you hike to Glacier Gorge. The trail rises more than 1,000 feet from the beginning to the highest point which can cause dizziness, loss of breath and cardiovascular problems. A slow pace and frequent breaks will help you head off serious health problems.
4. Dictate the length of your hike near Glacier Gorge by making the right choice at the Taylor Peak junction. You can head south to Mills Lake or north to Lake Haiyaha from this junction to change up your walk.
5. View the picturesque profiles of McHenry's Peak and Chiefs Head Peak as you hike through Glacier Gorge. These mountains have a black facade that are striking against clear and cloudy skies.
6. Strap some insulated boots to your feet to deal with inclement weather along the Glacier Gorge Trail. The frequent rain and snow in the Rocky Mountains make for a muddy trail that can be difficult to hike across in low-top shoes.
7. Listen to lapping water while you eat a snack on the shores of Black Lake. This small lake has a glassy surface that captures the full range of mountain peaks in the distance.
8. Travel to Glacier Gorge with adjustable pants and jackets that can be adapted to changing weather conditions. A winter jacket system allows you to remove a fleece lining without sacrificing protection from rain. A pair of hiking pants that can be converted into shorts help you stay cool in summer.

Tips & Warnings

• Develop a keen sense for quick weather changes without looking at the horizon before you hike at Glacier Gorge. The mountain walls along the hiking trail do not offer a good view of oncoming storm clouds. Take a break every 15 to 20 minutes to note temperature and wind changes to anticipate new weather patterns.