The Vibrant Colors On This Underrated Colorado Mountainous Lake Trail Are Truly Otherworldly
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Imagine the turquoise blue waters of the Caribbean meeting the rolling emerald hills of Ireland, all smack dab in the middle of Colorado. It's a real place — tucked in the heart of the San Juan Mountains near Silverton, Colorado, the Ice Lakes Trail is an increasingly popular must-visit destination for avid hikers. We say avid because you will work for the mesmerizing alpine views that reward you at the end of this steep, 8.5-mile out-and-back trek. But along the way, hikers are treated to vibrant colors and scenery that feels like stepping into a dream. The trail is beloved for its snow-fed lakes, cascading waterfalls, and vibrant wildflower meadows, making it a must-visit for nature enthusiasts exploring the beauty of Colorado.
The journey begins at the Ice Lakes Trailhead, which starts at nearly 10,000 feet in elevation. Over the course of the hike, you'll climb around 2,500 feet through green open meadows adorned with wildflowers during the summer months. The trail reveals panoramic views of towering mountain peaks and pristine alpine basins — two to put on your bucket list: Ice Lake at 12,270 feet and the upper basin of Island Lake at 12,392 feet. And if you want to continue exploring, there's a side quest to the largest lake in the area, Fuller Lake, which adds just under 2 miles to your trek.
What makes these basins so iconic is their striking cerulean waters, a result of glacial minerals reflecting the sunlight. Both lakes are set against a backdrop of rugged cliffs and snow-capped peaks, creating a scene that's nothing short of magical.
Planning your Ice Lakes Trail hike in Colorado
The campground is just about 20 minutes outside of the old mining town of Silverton, so visitors have the options of camping or staying in town. While the Ice Lakes Trail used to be a lesser-known gem among Colorado's best day hikes, it has grown in popularity thanks to social media. So, don't expect as much solitude as the photos show unless you plan ahead to avoid the crowds. Peak season is from July 4 through Labor Day, so visiting during the shoulder seasons may be wise — although winter is trickiest, as inroads may be closed due to snow. Due to the trail's popularity, especially on weekends, parking at the trailhead can fill up quickly. Consider arriving early or visiting on a weekday for thinner crowds.
The trail is well-marked but steep with some rocky terrain, so sturdy hiking shoes and hiking poles are recommended. Check out our ultimate guide to packing the best hiking gear ahead of your trip for tips on essentials. At this elevation, hikers should be prepared for surprise changes to the weather, so a light rain jacket could be handy. Visitors worried about the altitude can bring extra oxygen, like this Boost Oxygen canister, for some help through the more strenuous segments. Don't forget your bear spray, either — though it's unlikely you'll run into any, this is still black bear country.
Campers may want to stay at the nearby South Mineral Campground or dispersed camping areas around the area, but be sure to practice Leave No Trace principles to preserve the gorgeous alpine ecosystem. There are strict fire regulations — hikers will even come across the remnants of a fire in 2020 — so check the guidelines ahead of time. But it's also an easy day hike for anyone staying in Silverton, which offers a variety of accommodations.
Spend some time in Silverton, Colorado
If you're flying, two smaller airports are your best bet for getting to Silverton, which is relatively remote — Durango-La Plata and Montrose Regional. But it's also accessible via the Million Dollar Highway, a popular road trip route through the San Juan Mountains. Silverton itself is worth some extra attention — 89% of the San Juan Mountains are public lands, so hikers will be spoiled for choice with Silverton as their base camp.
Fishing, biking, kayaking, whitewater rafting, horseback riding, and backcountry ATV rides are all popular summer activities in Silverton and the surrounding mountain landscape. Winter is equally attractive for snow bunnies wanting to hit the slopes for snowshoeing, sledding, and snowmobiling. Skiers can check out the Kendall Mountain Ski Area for a full-service ski-venture with lifts, rentals, lessons, and more.
Silverton is a small town but it has everything outdoor enthusiasts need in the way of amenities. Dining hotspots include Handlebars Restaurant and Saloon, a quirky western-themed local dive, and Natalia's 1912 Restaurant, a surprisingly diverse eatery in a historic bordello dating back to the late 1800s. Beer lovers should check out the town's brewery, Golden Block. And for an easy day trip away for more fun, the historical Durango & Silverton Narrow Gauge Railroad offers a plethora of packages for a steam engine journey between Silverton and Durango, with nothing but gorgeous San Juan Mountain scenery along the way. You can also snag one way trips starting at $101 if you fly into Durango and would rather not rent a car.