STORY AND PHOTO BY LISA HORTON

Tackle the trail to Mill Lake with members of the Wood River Chapter of the Idaho Native Plant Society on Saturday July 25.

Mill Lake is a small but lovely lake located in the Prairie Creek area 17 miles north of Ketchum. It is one of the local area’s most accessible alpine lakes. Habitats for wild flowers include a flower-fringed creek, lush meadows, alpine habitat, and scree-covered slopes.

The hike difficulty is rated moderate to difficult because it is at high elevation, with a total distance of 4.2 miles and a total elevation gain of 1,200 feet, plus several stream crossings on logs. Most of the crossings are currently too deep for wading.

Poles are appropriate because of loose rock footing on the steep trails.  Because this is more difficult hike, the group will stop for an early lunch break and one group will have the opportunity to return to the cars from there. The remaining group will proceed to the lake through interesting alpine habitat, up very steep and gravelly trails. 

Wear sturdy shoes, a hat, and clothing appropriate to our changeable Idaho summers. Please carry plenty of water plus a lunch or snack, mosquito repellent and sunblock, and bring poles if you use them.

Meet in time to leave the Hailey Park and Ride Lot at the corner of River and Bullion streets at 8:30 a.m. or 9:15 from Lake Creek parking lot north of Ketchum on Highway 75.

Because the trailhead parking is very limited, it will be necessary to carpool from the Prairie Creek parking lot. The group will condense into fewer cars, wearing masks and driving with windows open.

The to-the-lake hike will end in mid-afternoon; the other group will finish earlier. No dogs, please.

There is no charge to attend but memberships in the state organization are encouraged. Find more information on the Idaho Native Plant Society at www.idahonativeplants.org. Questions? call Kristin Fletcher at 208-721-2583.