Ice Lake

Ice Lake in Clear Creek County is one of Colorado's most dramatic and hard-earned alpine destinations. Rated 4.8 stars by the hikers who have made the challenging trek, this high-altitude lake sits in a rugged basin where ice clings to the surface well into mid-July and crystal-clear water meets raw mountain terrain. Visitors who push through the demanding approach consistently describe the experience as heavenly, with colors and views that leave a lasting impression. This is not a casual day hike — it is an adventure for prepared and experienced hikers.

There is no established trail to Ice Lake. The route requires scrambling up boulder fields, navigating snowmelt creeks, and picking your way through rough alpine terrain. Most hikers approach from the Ohman Lake area, following the snowmelt creek upward while evaluating conditions in real time. The right side of the stream, looking uphill, offers some natural switchbacks through the terrain, but you will still need to cross boulder fields in at least two sections. Route-finding experience is essential, and the difficulty should not be underestimated.

Snow and ice are defining features of the Ice Lake experience. The lake itself is typically half-frozen even in mid-July, and snowfields on the approach can persist through mid-August or later. These snow sections are genuinely dangerous for hikers without experience on steep, icy terrain. Microspikes or crampons and trekking poles are strongly recommended, and anyone unfamiliar with the hazards of snow travel should choose a different destination. The conditions you encounter will dictate your route, so flexibility and good judgment are critical.

The payoff for all this effort is extraordinary. The lake sits in a serene alpine basin with phenomenal colors ranging from turquoise water to white ice against dark rock. Sunrise and sunset from this elevation are described as transcendent, and the remoteness ensures that crowds are minimal despite the area's proximity to the I-70 corridor. Hikers who reach Ice Lake often describe it as one of the most beautiful places they have ever seen in Colorado.

The hike takes roughly three hours each way for fit and experienced hikers. There are no facilities, no trail markers, and limited cell service. Pack plenty of water, food, layers for cold and wind, and navigation tools. The route is visible from the trail up James Peak, and the surrounding terrain offers additional exploration for those with the skill and stamina. Ice Lake demands respect, preparation, and backcountry competence, but it delivers a mountain experience that few other Colorado lakes can match.