Colorado's Ice Lake and Island Lake Hiking Trails: A Comprehensive Guide
Revamped Article:
Riding into the stunning San Juan Mountains is like diving into a Rocky Mountain paradise. The panorama is mesmerizing, the wildflowers are vibrant, and the lakes are a striking blue.
Ice Lake and Island Lake are without a shadow of a doubt two of our favorite alpine lakes we've hiked to (and trust us, we've hiked to A LOT of lakes). They're not just pretty; situated over 12,000 feet above sea level, these lakes are a true testament to the majesty of alpine landscapes.
But the astounding beauty masks a real challenge. This hike is no walk in the park. We gained over 2,600 feet of elevation gain in just 4 miles. But as with most hikes in Colorado, the effort is a more than fair trade for the breathtaking views.
Trail Specs
Distance: 8 miles round-tripElevation Gain: 2,693 feetDifficulty: brutalFeatures: multiple alpine lakes, alpine tundra, wildflowers, mountain vistas
There are a couple of different AllTrails listings for this trail. We reckon THIS ONE is the way to go. It maps the trail as an out-and-back, making for a more manageable ascent and descent.
Another AllTrails listing creates a loop, but the topographic map suggests it's steeper than it actually is, making the hike shorter. You be the judge - choose the trail that best suits your adventurous spirit!
Getting There
From Ouray, head south on Hwy 550 (also known as the Million Dollar Highway). Be prepared for fantastic summer and fall scenery. Don't miss the "Switzerland of America" scenic pullout just outside of town.
Continue on 550 south for 20.9 miles, keeping an eye out for mining history.
Turn right onto County Road 7 / US Forest Service Road 585 and continue for 4.4 miles.
On the right side, you'll find a parking area for the trailhead, and on the left, you'll see South Mineral Campground. The trailhead is located on the northwest corner of the parking area.
The Hike
The trail to Ice Lake and Island Lake started with a shaded forest, but don't be fooled by the initial ease; the incline stiffens pretty quickly. A series of switchbacks nearly immediately ease the elevation gain.
Clear Creek Falls is just one of the delights you'll encounter over the first 0.6 miles. This cascading gem is an incredible sight from multiple angles along the switchbacks.
The trail then veers away from the falls and heads westward through a mix of pine trees, aspens, and open meadows. The ascent eases here, but it's soon time for a challenge: the toughest part of the hike (approximately miles 1.3-1.9) features the steepest climb yet, even with switchbacks cutting down the elevation gain.
After conquering this steep section, you'll reach the Lower Basin - a wide, open area surrounded by peaks and wildflowers. We camped here for the night (read more about overnight backpacking option below).
Save your energy for the next lake. Once you pass the lower lake, you'll walk through a massive meadow filled with tiny streams and beautiful wildflowers, some as tall as you are.
At around 2.7 miles, you'll begin the final ascent to Upper Ice Lake. Look to your left for the perfect view of Ice Lake Falls before starting the steepest section of the hike.
Prepare yourself for a no switchbacks zone, as we climbed nearly 600 feet over 0.6 miles. The reward is worth the effort, but don't forget to admire the view back over the Lower Basin toward Fuller Peak on the way up.
The Lakes
Once the trail starts to flatten out, you'll reach a split somewhere around 3.3 miles. Turn left to visit Ice Lake, the lake famous for its radiant, bright blue water. After exploring Ice Lake, return to the fork and hike a short distance toward Island Lake. A rock-hopping section and a difficult ridge crossing lead you to Island Lake.
This portion might feel daunting, but the end is nigh! Island Lake offers stunning views once the trail opens back up again into the basin.
Camping Along FSR 585
South Mineral Campground and dispersed campsites along US FS Road 585 were completely full when we arrived on a Thursday afternoon. If you have a 4x4 vehicle with decent clearance and are willing to explore, there are campsites farther down the road that are less busy but also offer less wind protection.
Instead, we decided to use our backpacking gear and hike a few miles that afternoon to set up camp for the night.
Backpacking Ice Lake & Island Lake
The alpine tundra offers plenty of space for backcountry camping. However, this trail is popular, so arrive early to claim the best camp spots. The first 2.4 miles offer limited opportunities for camping due to the steep incline.
We ended up camping on an outcropping near the first lake. While close to the trail, it provided a great view and offered protection from mosquitoes and other hikers.
Remember to follow the 7 principles of Leave No Trace so the alpine tundra can be enjoyed by future generations.
FAQ
Where are Island Lake and Ice Lake in Colorado?
Both Island Lake and Ice Lake are situated south of Ouray, just outside of Silverton, off the Million Dollar Highway in Colorado. They're found in Ice Lake Basin, an expansive alpine tundra basin with multiple lakes that you can hike to.
What elevation are Island Lake and Ice Lake in Colorado?
Island Lake is situated at 12,042 feet in elevation, while Ice Lake sits at 12,271 feet.
Is Island Lake Colorado closed?
Ice Lake Basin experienced a fire in 2020, causing temporary closure. The fire did not harm the lakes themselves, but burn hazards such as fallen trees and flash flooding persist in this area.
Can you hike to Ice Lake and Island Lake in a single day hike?
Absolutely! You can hike to both lakes from the Ice Lakes trailhead on Forest Service Road 585. If you'd like to make it a loop, you can add Clear Lake to your hike. The included trail recommends hiking it as an out-and-back, but experienced hikers may want to explore the area further.
The Verdict
This challenging hike and overnight backpacking trip are highly recommended. Start training early, adapt to the altitude, and prepare for a truly memorable adventure! Just be mindful of burn scars related to the 2020 wildfire and any additional safety measures due to the ongoing COVID-19 pandemic.
NOTE: Dangers related to burn scars (such as fallen trees, flash flooding, and mudslides) still exist in the area, so stay updated on local conditions and policies. A permit system may be implemented in the near future, so keep an eye on updates and plan accordingly.
Pin this adventure for future reference!
- The San Juan Mountains offer a breathtaking hiking experience, with Ice Lake and Island Lake being two standout alpine lakes that require a strenuous yet rewarding hike.
- Hikers should be prepared for steep inclines and elevation gain, as the trail to Ice Lake and Island Lake can be brutal, with a total elevation gain of 2,693 feet over 8 miles.
- Along the trail, hikers will encounter beautiful wildflowers, crystal-clear streams, and stunning mountain vistas, making the effort worthwhile.
- Camping is available near the trailhead and in the alpine tundra, but hikers should arrive early to secure prime spots. Overnight backpacking offers a unique opportunity to experience the area in a more secluded and serene environment.
- Adventurers who complete the Island Lake and Ice Lake hike can rejoice in a memorable and challenging outdoor sports experience, accompanied by stunning wildlife and unforgettable views of the Colorado Rockies.
- To prepare for the hike, hikers should research the latest trail conditions, bring appropriate gear such as a backpack, tent, and hiking boots, and train their bodies to handle the altitude and intense activity.
- Hikers can share their own experiences, tips, and photos of the Ice Lake and Island Lake hike on social media platforms, including Pinterest, Facebook, Flipboard, Twitter, and LinkedIn.
