At 12,500 feet and nestled in a cirque beneath US Grant Peak, Island Lake is a sight for a tired hiker. The trek starts at the Ice Lakes Trailhead, about 5 miles from Silverton down South Mineral Road. The landscapes and vistas that await you are worth the effort, as the aquamarine lake shows colors rarely seen at lower altitudes. Along the path, you'll enjoy a myriad of Colorado wildflowers, perfect for the avid photographer and wildflower enthusiast.

Meadows of Columbine and daisies fill rest near Lower Ice Lake, and the columbine stretch up the slopes until you are nearly at Island Lake. Also, paintbrush, aster, Old Man of the Mountain, and other colorful varieties of wildflowers will line your trail.

Get up early, though. This trail, at least to Lower Ice Lake, is popular. I was on the trail for this Colorado location by 4:45am and had this landscape all to myself. However, on the trail back to the car, I bet I passed 25 people heading up.

See more wildflowers here http://robgreebon.photoshelter.com/gallery/Colorado-Wildflower-images-and-photos/G0000SH263kPcZgg/