Ice Lakes Basin Trail Colorado
A challenging hike to surreal blue alpine lakes in Colorado's San Juan Mountains, famed for wildflowers and breathtaking views.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Peak wildflower season
Ice Lakes Basin Trail Colorado
Best Time
Peak wildflower season
Highlights
Must-see attractions
A challenging hike to surreal blue alpine lakes in Colorado's San Juan Mountains, famed for wildflowers and breathtaking views.
"This might be the most beautiful hike in the US!"
🥾 Gear Up for the Climb
Bring hiking poles, sturdy shoes, layers, sun protection, and bug spray. Altitude is no joke!
💧 Hydration is Key
Carry plenty of water and electrolytes. The thin air at high altitudes can dehydrate you quickly.
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
Ice Lake
Ice Lake Basin
A surreal, intensely blue glacial lake that looks like it's from another planet. Absolutely breathtaking!
Island Lake
Ice Lake Basin
Another stunning alpine lake, often described as warmer than Ice Lake and equally beautiful.
+1
Wildflower Meadows
Lower sections of the trail
Vibrant fields of alpine wildflowers bloom in summer, adding bursts of color to the scenic ascent.
+1Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Altitude & Acclimatization
Trail Conditions & Timing
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
🥾 Gear Up for the Climb
Bring hiking poles, sturdy shoes, layers, sun protection, and bug spray. Altitude is no joke!
💧 Hydration is Key
Carry plenty of water and electrolytes. The thin air at high altitudes can dehydrate you quickly.
⚠️ Be Prepared for Snow
Snow can linger into June. Check recent trail conditions before heading out.
📸 Capture the Blue
The water's color is unreal! Get your camera ready for some truly spectacular shots.
Tips
from all over the internet
🥾 Gear Up for the Climb
Bring hiking poles, sturdy shoes, layers, sun protection, and bug spray. Altitude is no joke!
💧 Hydration is Key
Carry plenty of water and electrolytes. The thin air at high altitudes can dehydrate you quickly.
⚠️ Be Prepared for Snow
Snow can linger into June. Check recent trail conditions before heading out.
📸 Capture the Blue
The water's color is unreal! Get your camera ready for some truly spectacular shots.
⏰ Start Early
Beat the crowds and afternoon thunderstorms by starting your hike in the morning.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors consistently rave about the breathtaking, almost surreal beauty of the blue lakes, calling it one of the most spectacular hikes in Colorado. However, many warn that the trail is extremely strenuous due to significant elevation gain and high altitude, requiring excellent fitness and preparation.
"Just jaw dropping gorgeous! That elevation gain is no joke bring your inhalers , extra water, hiking poles , good shoes , sun hat, sunscreen, bug spray, etc! Lots of bugs"
Zoya Aleksandra
"This trail is no joke. From the very beginning of the trail, it’s a gradual incline. Need to cross couple of streams. Went on June and there was still a foot snow in some areas higher up in the trails. Having that said, the beauty of the alpine lake makes it all worth it. The trail is very beautiful throughout.
It’s good to carry :- hiking sticks, lots of water, windproof jacket, hiking slippers, snacks.
Wild life seen:- marmots"
Akita Shrestha
"This is by far one of the most beautiful places!
Hike is tough. Very tough! Elevation climb is no joke. We encountered several people who turned around about the 1200 ft mark. There’s a variety of hikes. From young to old, super fit to not so fit. Don’t give up!
I’ve been living in Texas for most of my life (Wyoming native) and I wasn’t prepared for this. As an avid gym goer - I was getting over an upper respiratory infection and sinus infection when we made this hike as it was one of the primary reasons for our trip.
A little more than an 8 hour hike (5 up, 3 down) but the most reward. Absolutely spectacular."
Christina Ruiz
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
The trailhead is located near Silverton, Colorado. From Silverton, take County Road 2, which turns into a rough, unpaved road. A high-clearance 4WD vehicle is recommended for the final stretch to the trailhead. Many visitors park at the lower lot and hike up the road if they don't have suitable vehicles.
No, the road is rough and unpaved, especially the upper section. A high-clearance 4WD vehicle is strongly recommended. If you have a standard car, you may need to park at the lower lot and walk up the road, adding extra mileage to your hike.
Silverton is accessible via US Highway 550, also known as the Million Dollar Highway, from Durango to the south and Ouray to the north. Be aware that this highway is very scenic but also winding and can be challenging for some drivers.
Currently, there are no official shuttle services directly to the Ice Lake Basin Trailhead. It's best to plan on driving your own vehicle or arranging private transportation.
The Ice Lakes Basin Trail is about a two-hour drive south from Montrose, Colorado, making it a popular day trip destination for those in the area.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
No, typically no permit or reservation is required for day hiking the Ice Lake Basin Trail. However, always check the U.S. Forest Service website for any temporary closures or regulations before your visit.
There is no entrance fee to access the Ice Lake Basin Trail. It is part of the San Juan National Forest and is open to the public for hiking.
The trail is generally accessible year-round, but conditions vary greatly with snow. The best hiking season is typically from late June through September. There are no set operating hours as it's an outdoor trail.
Dispersed camping is allowed in designated areas of the San Juan National Forest, but regulations can change. It's crucial to research current dispersed camping rules and Leave No Trace principles before planning an overnight stay.
While technically accessible, the trail is often impassable due to heavy snow from fall through late spring. The prime hiking season is summer and early fall.
🎫 🥾 Onsite Experience
The Ice Lake Basin Trail is considered strenuous. It's about 7.7 to 8.3 miles round trip with an elevation gain of approximately 2,500 feet. The altitude and steepness make it challenging for many.
The elevation at Ice Lake is approximately 12,300 feet. Be prepared for thin air and potential altitude sickness.
Most hikers take between 4 to 6 hours to complete the round trip, depending on their fitness level and how much time they spend at the lakes. Some faster hikers have completed it in under 4 hours.
Yes, especially during the summer months, you can encounter mosquitoes and other biting insects. Bringing insect repellent is highly recommended.
You might spot marmots, pikas, and various bird species. Keep a safe distance and never feed the wildlife.
📸 📸 Photography
Early morning or late afternoon light offers the most dramatic and beautiful lighting for photographing the lakes and surrounding peaks. Midday sun can be harsh.
While drone footage can be stunning, be aware of regulations in national forests. Always check current FAA and Forest Service rules regarding drone usage.
A wide-angle lens is great for capturing the expansive alpine scenery. A telephoto lens can be useful for wildlife. Consider a polarizing filter to enhance the blue of the water.
Absolutely! The drive along County Road 2 and the Million Dollar Highway (US 550) offers numerous scenic overlooks and pull-offs with incredible mountain vistas.
The lake's color is naturally vibrant. Shooting in RAW format and adjusting white balance in post-processing can help capture the true intensity. Overcast days can sometimes mute the blue.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
Consider starting very early to allow ample time and break up the climb. The stunning views are a great motivator, but be prepared for a strenuous day. For families seeking alpine lake experiences with less intensity, exploring other trails in the San Juan Mountains might be a more comfortable option.
💰 Budget Travelers
The main costs will be transportation to Silverton and any personal gear you might need. To save money, consider carpooling if traveling with friends. Packing your own food and plenty of water from a lower elevation will also cut down on expenses. Since it's a day hike, you avoid accommodation costs, making it a fantastic free outdoor adventure.
📸 Photography Enthusiasts
+1 Aim for golden hour light (early morning or late afternoon) to capture the most dramatic colors and avoid harsh midday sun. Don't forget to capture the journey as well – the wildflower meadows in summer and the rugged mountain landscapes provide ample subjects. A wide-angle lens is highly recommended to encompass the grandeur of the basin.
+1Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
The Challenge of the Ascent
To tackle this challenge, hiking poles are highly recommended by many visitors, as they can significantly ease the strain on your knees and quads, especially during the descent. Proper acclimatization is also crucial. Spending a day or two in Silverton (around 9,300 ft) or a similar elevation before attempting the hike can make a world of difference in how your body handles the thin air at over 12,000 feet.
Don't underestimate the importance of hydration and nutrition. Carrying ample water, electrolytes, and high-energy snacks is essential. The combination of steep climbs and high altitude can be taxing, so fueling your body properly will help you reach the stunning reward at the top.
The Unforgettable Blue Lakes
Adjacent to Ice Lake is Island Lake, which offers a slightly different but equally captivating beauty. While also a stunning alpine lake, Island Lake is often perceived as being a bit warmer, and some brave souls have even taken a dip!
+1 The water temperature of Ice Lake was measured at a chilly 52°F, so swimming is definitely for the very hardy. These glacial lakes are the ultimate payoff for the challenging hike. The visual spectacle of these bright blue waters set against the rugged San Juan Mountains is what makes the Ice Lake Colorado hike a bucket-list experience for many.
+1Wildflowers and Wildlife Encounters
This makes the hike particularly rewarding for nature photographers and flower enthusiasts. Beyond the flora, keep an eye out for local wildlife. While not guaranteed, visitors have reported sightings of marmots sunning themselves on rocks and pikas scurrying amongst the talus slopes.
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from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit