Ice Lake Trail

Ice Lake Trail #505 is a wildly popular trail, so do not expect solitude. The trail climbs almost 3,000 feet of elevation in 3.75 miles. The first half is below timberline and passes through aspen and conifer vegetative zones. Lower Ice Lake is slightly below timberline, at the base of a towering ridgeline. The upper half of the trail switchbacks up a cliff and then levels out when it reaches the basin. Typically the basin is covered by wildflowers in late July and August. This lake basin is surrounded by several peaks, which include Grant Peak, Fuller Peak, and Beatie Peak. As with all areas above timberline, there is little natural shelter from the elements. Storms can move into these areas very rapidly.

The 2020 Ice Fire damaged this trail and surrounding area and left behind tree snags and loose material that could pose hazards during rain or wind events. Although the trail, South Mineral Campground, and the roads have been cleared of fallen debris and many snags, a post-fire environment is inherently hazardous. Please exercise extreme caution when visiting the area.

The peak period of visitation is July 4th through Labor Day Weekend. Crowding during these times can be a problem, therefore finding parking and backcountry campsites can be very difficult and solitude near to impossible.

Distance (one-way): 3.5 miles
Minimum/starting elevation: 9,840 feet
Maximum/ending elevation: 12,260 feet

Specific Trail Information

Trail Number

505

General Information

Water is available in Ice Lake and nearby creeks; purification is recommended

Non-motorized use only

Address: 367 Pearl Street Bayfield, CO 81122
Phone: (970) 884-2512
Hours: Friday only, 10:00am-4:30pm (Closed on federal holidays)

Getting There

Parking

During summer, finding parking can be very difficult.

Directions

From Silverton: To reach the trailhead from the intersection of Highway 550 and the turnoff into Silverton (Highway 110), drive 2 miles north toward Ouray on Highway 550. Turn left on Forest Road 585 (also called County Road 7 or South Mineral Road), located between mile markers 72 and 73. Follow the good gravel road for 4.4 miles to the trailhead parking area on the right (North) side of the road, just across from the South Mineral Campground. This road is suitable for two-wheel drive vehicles, though there may be some potholes to avoid. Also, be aware that shortly after the campground the road becomes only 4WD accessible.

From Ouray: Follow Highway 550 south from Ouray for about 20 miles to the turn off to South Mineral Campground. Make a sharp right onto County Road 7 and follow the gravel road for 4.4 miles to the trailhead parking area on the north side of the road across from the South Mineral Campground.

Note: South Mineral road (FR585/County Road 7) is not plowed in winter, so if you plan on doing a winter trip, add 4.4 miles each way to your hike, snowshoe or ski.