With more people than ever lovin’ on Colorado, it may feel harder to find that serene and oh-so-beautiful hike you dream of. Personally, my dream came true late last June when I discovered Mirror Lake east of Meeker.

While my husband fly-fished the White River nearby, I ventured from our primitive campsite near the Mirror Lake Trailhead on an 8-mile round-trip, Flat Top Wilderness journey.

Evidence of horses from nearby Ripple Creek Lodge were far more prevalent than foot traffic. I had the entire trail to myself, and only upon reaching Mirror Lake did I give a friendly wave to folks tent camping across the lake on a private vista.

In short, I would describe the Mirror Lake Trail as a steady incline of rocks and roots. Although not for the casual hiker, there are plenty of opportunities for breaks while crossing a creek, passing through meadows, climbing among aspen and lodgepole pines, or at Shamrock Lake (a gorgeous scene in its own right) and the trophy Mirror Lake. It’s a workout but well worth it. Bring a lunch, hiking poles, the kids and well-behaved dogs.

Keep your eyes open for a variety of birds and small mammals. Mule deer, elk, moose and black bears also frequent the area.

If you’re an angler, be sure to throw in your fly rod. Trout have been seen hitting the surface of Shamrock Lake in a near feeding frenzy, and the turquoise clarity of Mirror Lake makes the brookies easy to spot. Much of the shoreline allows space for back casting.

There are so many trails in the Flat Tops, a person could spend all summer and into the fall hiking them. Wildflowers are showy late June through mid August at the start and end of Mirror Lake Trail, but are less prevalent through the dense forest incline. For outstanding wild flower viewing during this peak season, check out the Skinny Fish Lake/McGinnis Lake loop nearby.

Getting There:

Head north out of Meeker on Highway 13 for 1 mile and turn right (east) on Country Road 8. Following the White River, continue for 23.7 miles on pavement and 15 miles on gravel before turning right onto Trappers Lake Road. The Mirror Lake Trailhead turnoff will be on the right in less than a half mile. Continue through the free designated, primitive camping area to a parking area down below.

The Trail:

The trail starts out by dropping down the side of a hill where it travels a short distance along a fence until reaching a gate. There, the legal easement across private property begins and continues for approximately 1 mile. While on the easement, be sure to stay on the trail and respect the landowners’ rights. At the bottom of the hill is a scenic stop where a bridge crosses the North Fork of the White River. As tempting as it is, the bridge and trail are still on private property, so no fishing quite yet.

Another fence and gate let you know you’re leaving private property and entering the Flat Tops Wilderness Area of the White River National Forest. The trail begins a steady ascent following the Mirror Creek Drainage. Shamrock Lake rests in a picturesque opening at 2.75 miles.

Continuing on toward Mirror Lake, pass the Big Ridge Trail turnoff on the right near the 3.5-mile point. Less than 1/2 mile later, Mirror Lake appears majestically after you crest a small rise. Traverse around the lake in either direction for more exploration, or relax and enjoy the natural beauty.

Originally published in the Summer 2022 issue of Spoke+Blossom.

Take A Hike: Mirror Lake Trail

Getting There:

The Trail: