Ice Lake Basin near Silverton is steep, popular, and short on parking

A few miles north of Silverton, the Ice Lake Trail climbs into a high basin known for summer wildflowers and bright blue-green water. To get there, you turn off US 550 onto Forest Road 585, also called South Mineral Road, and follow the gravel to a trailhead across from the South Mineral Campground.

Two things are worth knowing before you go. First, this is a strenuous hike. The Forest Service describes it as climbing close to 3,000 feet in under four miles, topping out above 12,000 feet, where storms can build quickly in the afternoon. Second, it is popular. Parking can be very hard to find in summer, with the busiest stretch running from around the Fourth of July through Labor Day. Arriving early or visiting outside peak weeks helps.

The 2020 Ice Fire burned through part of this area. That leaves standing dead trees and loose ground, so the Forest Service asks people to use extra caution, especially in wind. South Mineral Road is also not plowed in winter.

The wildflowers tend to peak in late July and August, but they are not guaranteed on any given day.

For current trail conditions, road status, and burn-area cautions, check the San Juan National Forest Ice Lake Trail page before heading out.