hikes

Ice Lake & Island Lake

Posted on July 18, 2012 by Hart

Our friend Bebe, from The River Club, hiked one of the prettiest hikes in Southwestern Colorado... maybe even in the entire state. Ice Lake and Island Lake are gorgeous high-alpine mountain lakes located near our neighboring town of Silverton. Here's a description on how to get to the lakes and check out the photos!!

When heading to Silverton over Red Mountain Pass, before you reach the town, there is a turn off for South Mineral Campground.Take this right and head down the road a little ways and you will see there is a parking lot off to the right, park here and the adventure begins. There is a clearly marked trailhead at this parking lot for Ice Lake. The hike to Ice Lake is a moderately steep climb of 3.2 miles to Ice Lake. Before reaching Ice Lake you will see a large lake to your left that is below tree line, Ice Lake is over the next ridge from this point. When you start climbing to the ridge take a moment to see the waterfall that falls diagonally through the rock face, this will be to the left of you.

If you feel adventurous and choose to go to Island Lake you continue on the path from Ice Lake that heads right and Island Lake is another 3/4 of a mile off the trail. Ice Lake is so clear and blue that you can see the fish swimming 20 feet below the surface, it really is one of the most magnificent lakes around. Island Lake is darker is color but has a very prominent island right in the center of it. Make sure to be prepared for hiking in this area, thunderstorms happen frequently and you are exposed at the lakes because they are above tree line.

tags: colorado, hike, hikes, hiking, Ice Lake, Island Lake, Red Mountain Pass, Silverton, South Mineral Campground

Telluride Presents Visitors Endless Opportunities to Get Outside and Breathe the Fresh Colorado Mountain Air This Summer

Posted on June 12, 2012 by Hart

From pristine alpine lakes to abandoned mining buildings to Colorado's largest free-falling waterfall... Telluride, Colorado offers some of the most spectacular hikes and Summer activities in all of the West. Escape the heat this summer in Telluride and experience these breathtaking beginner to expert hiking trails with family or friends.

While temperatures reach 100°+ around the country, Telluride remains a cool 70°-80° degrees all summer long - visit the spectacular San Juans and escape the humidity and heat! Here are the Top 5 Telluride hikes to explore this summer:

Bear Creek Falls - This is an easy out-and-back hike that brings you to a beautiful waterfall with great views of the surrounding mountains. Starting from Downtown, it's a favorite here in Telluride for bikers, runners, and people who just want to get out and walk with friends or family.

Jud Wiebe Trail - The Jud Wiebe trail is a loop hike that gives you classic views of town, Telluride Ski Resort and jagged 13,000-foot mountains. This is the perfect hike to get your heart pumping before festival films, concerts or a night on the town.

Bridal Veil Falls - Telluride's Main Street deadends into Colorado's largest free-falling waterfall, Bridal Veil Falls. Found at the east end of town, this waterfall is a spectacular sight with a lot of history - the power plant atop is the second-oldest operating AC generator in the United States. Hike, bike or drive to this must-see Colorado attraction.

Silver Lake - One of the most stunning high alpine lakes in the region, spend some time exploring Silver Lake and don't forget your camera! This advanced hike offers amazing views, gorgeous wildflowers and a tranquil lake full of mountain trout.

Sneffels Highline - For more experienced hikers, the Sneffels Highline is a beautiful loop hike that covers 13 miles in total passing by Telluride's closest 14,000 foot mountain. It's perfect for those adventure seekers who are acclimated and ready for a full-day excursion.

This is just a taste of the magnificent trails and adventures Telluride and the surrounding region has to offer. Adjust your altitude this summer and explore some of Colorado's prettiest hikes in the San Juan Mountains!

Start planning a trip to paradise in Colorado today. Call (877) 507-9695 or visit Telluride.com. Like Telluride's Facebook Fan Page and follow Twitter for up-to-date events, photos, videos, contests, exclusive lodging specials and more.

About Telluride.com
Telluride.com is owned and operated by Telluride Alpine Lodging - the longest-standing, locally-owned and operated lodging company in the Telluride region. Offering a wide selection of hotel rooms, vacation homes and condominium rentals in both Telluride & Mountain Village, Telluride.com is the only place to look to find the perfect Telluride vacation rental.

Contact:
Hart Roberts
Marketing Manager
(970) 728-3388, ext. 155
Hart(at)Telluride(dot)com
@hartwellskis

###

tags: Bear Creek, Bear Creek Falls, Bridal Veil Falls, colorado, hike, hikes, hiking, Jud Wiebe Trail, Silver Lake, Sneffels, Sneffels Highline, telluride, trails