A top contender for Colorado’s best alpine lake hike, you won’t want to miss the Ice Lakes Basin trail in Silverton, CO! The trail to Ice Lake and Island Lake requires almost 3,000 feet of elevation gain in 3.75 miles (one-way), but it is worth every step!
Ice Lakes Basin trail FAQ
How long is the Ice Lakes Basin trail?
The Ice Lakes Basin trail to Ice Lake is about 7.5 miles roundtrip or 3.75 miles one way – not including the spur to Island Lake, which is another 0.6 miles hike from Ice Lake.
How many feet of elevation is the Ice Lakes Basin trail?
The trail gains over 2,400 feet of elevation in 3.75 miles, so it is quite a difficult hike! The trailhead is around 9,840 feet above sea level, and Ice Lake’s elevation is about 12,260 feet above sea level.
How hard is Ice Lake Trail?
Hikers should prepare for a strenuous approach due to the steepness of the trail, the length of the trail, and especially the elevation of the trail. That being said, while you should expect a challenge, don’t be discouraged!
When is the best time to hike Ice Lake Colorado?
The absolute best time to visit Ice Lake is July or August during wildflower season, however, this is peak tourist season in the Silverton/Ouray area, so camping and parking will be extremely sparse.
Where is Ice Lake Basin?
The Ice Lake Basin trail is located in San Juan National Forest, just outside of Silverton, Colorado. The trailhead parking lot is located off of US 550 on FDR #585 (South Mineral Creek Road), which is an easy dirt road that is passable by most cars.
Parking is extremely limited. The small lot can be full by 7:00 am in peak season, so be sure to have a backup activity for the day if you cannot get a spot.
Do you need a permit to hike Ice Lake Basin trail?
At this time, no permit is required to hike Ice Lake Basin trail. For the most accurate, up-to-date trail information, visit the Forest Service website.
Can you swim in Ice Lake Basin?
Yes, but expect frigid water temperatures! It is unlikely you will want to fully get into the chilly Ice Lake and Island Lake, but dipping your toes in the clear blue water after the steep hike up is super refreshing.
Hiking to Ice Lake Silverton, Colorado
The hike to Ice Lake and Island Lake from the Ice Lakes Basin trail in Silverton, CO, is hands down one of if not the best lake hike in Colorado.
The hike is strenuous, steep, long, and for a lot of the time, fully exposed to the sun, but the reward is out of this world. From the bluest water you’ve ever seen (think dark blue Gatorade) to fields of Colorado blue columbine, you will have epic views at every turn.
Top tips for the Ice Lakes hike
Here are my best tips for hiking the Ice Lakes Basin Trail to Ice Lake and Island Lake:
- Bring lots of water
- Wear comfortable hiking shoes and socks – blisters are inevitable on this one!
- Be sure to wear a hat, SPF, and bug spray
- Reserve camping or lodging in advance (if possible)
- Get to the trailhead EARLY – like before 6 am
- Pack a lunch and lots of snacks
- Keep pushing! This hike is so worth the grueling elevation gain!
- Take lots of pictures. You will want to look back at the memories from this incredible hike for years.
Plan your next big epic Colorado hike for the Ice Lakes Basin trail!
Pin this post for summer!
