Basics
- Location:
- North of Durango
- Setting:
- Mountainous
- Length:
- 9 mile roundtrip
- Difficulty:
- Difficult
- Time:
- 4.5 to 5.5 hours
- Trailhead Elevation:
- 9840 feet
- Elevation Change:
- -2400 feet
- Season:
- Summer - Fall
Basic Directions
Follow U.S. 550 north of Silverton about 2 miles and turn onto FDR #585 (South Mineral Creek). The trailhead is at the entrance of South Mineral Campground. There is limited parking.
Description
This trail is short and steep. It is uphill all the way to the lake basin. 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. All water in this area should be filtered for Giardia.
Ice Lake is rated good for brook and cutthroat trout.
