Island Lake

Island Lake is a jaw-dropping alpine destination in the San Juan Mountains of San Juan County, Colorado, widely regarded as one of the most spectacular high-country lakes in the state. Perched in a dramatic cirque basin surrounded by jagged peaks, cascading waterfalls, and wildflower meadows, this lake earns its perfect 5.0 rating from every visitor who makes the demanding climb to reach it. If you are willing to work for your scenery, Island Lake is the kind of place that changes what you thought Colorado could look like.

The hike to Island Lake covers roughly 8 miles round trip with approximately 3,000 feet of elevation gain, placing it firmly in the moderate-to-strenuous category. The route connects to the popular Ice Lakes Trail, and most hikers combine both lakes in a single trip. You can tackle Island Lake first or save it for the return — either way, the additional mile or so of trail beyond Ice Lake involves steeper, more exposed terrain with some scrambling sections. The effort is universally described as worth it. Wildflowers carpet the meadows in July and August, and the surrounding peaks create a natural amphitheater that looks different with every shift in light and cloud cover.

The lake sits at high elevation in the San Juan range, meaning weather can change fast. Visitors report starting in sunshine and encountering cold, windy conditions within an hour. Layers, rain gear, and an early start are essential. Morning departures also give you the best light for photography and help you avoid afternoon thunderstorms, which are common throughout the San Juans in summer.

The water at Island Lake is clear and extremely cold year-round. Some hikers take a quick cold plunge, though swimming in the traditional sense is not practical given the temperatures. There are no facilities, no marked campsites, and no services anywhere near the lake. This is backcountry terrain that requires preparation, self-sufficiency, and respect for the alpine environment. Stay on established trails to protect the fragile tundra and wildflower meadows.

The best window to visit is mid-July through mid-September, after snowfields have melted enough to make the trail passable. Spring and early summer bring waterfalls pouring down the surrounding cliffs, adding another layer to an already extraordinary landscape. Island Lake is accessed from the Ice Lakes Trailhead near Silverton, where parking can fill up quickly on summer mornings.