Overview
Ice Lake Basin is the trail that appears on most "best hikes in Colorado" lists, and the reputation is earned. The 9-mile round trip from South Mineral Creek gains 2,900 feet to reach a cirque of five lakes perched between 12,200 and 12,600 feet, framed by volcanic rock that turns orange, red, purple, and rust in the afternoon light. The geology of this part of the San Juans is volcanic in origin, and the exposed mineralized rock gives the basin a color palette unlike anything in Colorado's granite ranges.
The trail climbs through three distinct ecological zones: aspen and mixed forest in the lower canyon, subalpine spruce-fir forest in the middle section, and open alpine tundra above treeline. Each transition is gradual enough to appreciate. The final push to the basin involves a steep switchback section on rocky terrain that tests leg strength, but the views that open as you crest the rim are immediate and dramatic.
San Juan National Forest contains some of the most striking scenery in the American West, and Ice Lake Basin is the accessible, non-technical demonstration of that claim. No railroad ticket required, no technical scrambling needed. A long, strenuous day hike is the price of admission.
The Route
Miles 0 to 1.5: South Mineral Creek Valley
The trail begins at the South Mineral Creek Trailhead and climbs gently through aspen groves and along the creek drainage. The first 1.5 miles are the easiest of the route, following a well-maintained dirt trail with minor elevation gain. Clear Creek confluence appears near mile 1; the trail forks here, with the left fork continuing to Ice Lake Basin and the right fork heading toward Clear Lake. Bear left.
Miles 1.5 to 3.5: Forested Climb
The trail steepens through the forested section, gaining roughly 1,200 feet over 2 miles. The spruce-fir canopy closes in, providing shade during the climb. Several small creek crossings occur in this section, the bridges are present but may be washed out in heavy runoff years. Check conditions before early-season trips.
Miles 3.5 to 4.5: Above Treeline Approach
Above treeline, the trail climbs through open tundra on switchbacks. This section is exposed to weather, afternoon clouds build fast in this terrain. The lower basin comes into view at roughly mile 4, with Island Lake visible below the upper cirque. The trail continues left and up to reach Ice Lake at the back of the basin.
Mile 4.5: Ice Lake Basin
Ice Lake sits at 12,257 feet at the head of the cirque. Fuller Peak (13,761 ft) and US Grant Peak (13,767 ft) rise above the basin's western wall. The lake itself is deep blue with a rocky shoreline. From Ice Lake, a use trail continues south and east to reach Island Lake below, completing a short basin loop for those who want to visit multiple lakes.
When to Visit
The trail is typically snow-free below treeline by mid-June, though the upper basin can hold snow into early July. July through September offers the best overall conditions. The wildflower peak runs from mid-July through early August in most years.
Afternoon thunderstorms are routine in July and August. Most experienced hikers aim to be at the lakes by 11 a.m. and begin descending by 12:30 to 1 p.m. on days when afternoon weather looks unstable. The exposed upper basin offers no shelter from lightning. Check forecasts before your trip using NOAA's mountain weather zone forecast for the San Juans.
September brings cooler, often clearer weather and reduced crowds. The aspen display along South Mineral Creek is excellent from late September through mid-October, though the upper basin will likely have had early-season snowfall by that point.
What to Bring
Many hikers carry:
- 2 to 3 liters of water (a filter allows refilling from South Mineral Creek)
- Waterproof shell jacket and an insulating mid-layer
- Sun protection including a hat, sunglasses, and sunscreen
- High-calorie snacks and lunch
- Trekking poles for the steep ascent and rocky descent
Consider bringing:
- Microspikes for early-season travel on the upper slopes
- Extra dry socks and a change of clothes for creek crossings
- Emergency bivy or space blanket if doing the route in unsettled weather
Individual needs vary based on fitness, acclimatization, and conditions. Altitude at the lake is over 12,000 feet; those arriving from lower elevations may notice reduced exercise capacity. See CDC guidance on altitude illness.
Practical Details
The vault toilet at the trailhead is the last restroom facility before the upper basin. No facilities exist in the backcountry. Practice Leave No Trace waste disposal and follow the LNT principles for alpine environments.
Parking is free at the South Mineral Creek Trailhead (as of 2026), though the lot fills early on summer weekends. Arriving by 7 a.m. on busy Saturdays and Sundays avoids the worst crowding. Overflow parking is available along Forest Road 585.
No campfire permits are sold at this trailhead, but free self-issue campfire permits are available at several nearby sites. Campfires are prohibited above treeline. For the upper basin, a stove is the only practical cooking option.
Getting There
From Silverton, take US-550 north approximately 2 miles and turn left (west) on County Road 7 / Forest Road 585 (South Mineral Creek Road). Follow FR 585 for about 4 miles to the trailhead parking lot at the road's end. The road is gravel with some rough sections; high-clearance vehicles are recommended. Standard passenger cars can typically manage in dry conditions, but the road can be difficult when wet.
From Durango, take US-550 north approximately 50 miles to Silverton, then follow the directions above. The total drive from Durango is about 55 miles and takes roughly 75 minutes.