Jewel Of The San Juans: Columbine Lake Trail
Just north of Silverton, off the Million Dollar Highway, lies two of the most spectacular alpine hikes in the entire state — Columbine Lake Trail and Ice Lake Trail. Although they are side by side and both share many stunning qualities, one truly stands out.
Due in large part to social media, Ice Lake Trail has become wildly popular, averaging 500 people a day during the summer, eliminating any hope for solitude and damaging the precious high-altitude tundra.
Columbine Lake Trail, just over two miles to the north, remains pristine and tranquil. The trail starts above 10,000 feet with a gain of 2,400 feet over 3.5 miles. The 12% grade is steep and strenuous. Persevering will reward you with panoramic views of the surrounding rugged San Juan Mountain peaks, sprawling alpine valleys and breathtaking Columbine Lake.
Photos by Melanie Wiseman
THE HIKE
The trail is naturally split into three sections. The first 1.25 miles feature countless steep switchbacks in a dense coniferous forest. Feeling pretty proud as we passed a group of teens trying to find their lungs, our bubbles burst after learning they were from Tennessee. Oh well.
Breaking out of the forest, the trail opens up to an idyllic alpine valley leading to a craggy saddle just over a mile away. Stunning views and the true beauty of the trail emerge here. Stop often, rest and take it all in.
The saddle is the last kick-in-the-butt before the final third of the trail. The most strenuous part of the hike is over and the most beautiful section can be enjoyed at leisure with only 200 feet of additional elevation gain to the lake. Broad Mill Creek alpine valley is before you surrounded by distant jagged mountain ranges. Life is good!
After 1.5 miles, the jewel of the hike comes into view, tucked in a stunning glacial bowl at nearly 13,000 feet. Cool your feet in the crystal sapphire water of Columbine Lake, meditate, throw out a line or enjoy a trail walk bordering the lake.
PLAN AHEAD
The best months to hike Columbine Lake Trail are mid-July through September. The sweet spot is mid-July through mid-August if you want to enjoy vibrant summer wildflowers. Start hiking in the morning and reach the lake by noon to avoid erratic afternoon alpine thunderstorms.
Ample water sources are available to filter, but not until 2 miles into the hike. Pack plenty of snacks, rain gear and layering options. If you’re a fishing fan, throw in a pole to catch a brook trout that Columbine Lake is known for.
Consider your personal acclimation and ability for difficult high-altitude hiking to avoid getting yourself in a compromising situation on the trail. Hiking with two poles are great assists for both the incline and decline.
There are no facilities on the trail or at the trailhead, and always be an ambassador for the environment by leaving no trace.
DIRECTIONS TO TRAILHEAD
Parking for Columbine Lake is located just off Highway 550, 18 miles south of Ouray and 5 miles north of Silverton. Turn on Forest Road 820 and stay right. The trailhead is easy to miss as the marker is a simple post reading “Trail 509.” Low-clearance vehicles should park closer to the highway which adds a mile to the hike. High clearance vehicles can drive another .6 miles to the trailhead where parking is limited and a tight squeeze.
Originally published in the summer 2025 issue of Spoke+Blossom.