HikeNYC.com

Difficulty: Moderate. 3 miles one way (3000 ft elevation gain) from trailhead.

Trailhead: From Silverton go 2 miles north towards Ouray. Take a left on county road 7 (watch for the blue sign). Follow dusty road 6 miles to South Mineral Campground. The trailhead is at the edge of the carpark.

Nearest town: Silverton, Colorado. Silverton is situated in the San Juan Mountains, nestled in a valley it is a hiker’s (and snow enthusiasts) paradise. Silverton lies 50 miles north of Durando (nearest airport) on highway 550. For a great experience take the Durango & Silverton Narrow Guage Railroad (runs daily www.durangotrain.com )

This fantastic trail highlights all that is good about Colorado hiking. The trail ascends steeply through a Douglas Fir forest, then the Aspens appear and there are waterfalls and suddenly you’re in a wildflower garden. A little father up and there is alpine tundra with spectacular views and at the top -- the upper ice lake. Breathless with astonishment (and exertion). This is the one of the best day hikes ever.