Every Nevadan knows that in order to find real beauty, you have to be willing to travel off the beaten path. Some of the state’s most wonderous scenery is hiding at the end of a rugged hiking trail, like this beautiful alpine lake. Island Lake is tucked away in the vast, remote Lamoille Canyon. However, it’s just a short hike to this little-known lake, so challenge yourself to go a little out of your way to seek this place out!
The Island Lake Trail is a gem of a trail hidden in the endlessly beautiful Lamoille Canyon. Surrounded by the Ruby Mountains and miles away from civilization, this short hike is bound to hit the spot when you feel like an adventure.
The trail is just under two miles each way, making for a nearly 4-mile hike in total. The trailhead can be found at the end of Lamoille Canyon Scenic Byway, a 12-mile stretch of road that leads you into the heart of the Ruby Mountains.
At a starting elevation of 8,800-feet, the views from the trail will immediately fill you with awe. Although the lake may be the final destination, this is the type of trail that will captivate your senses from the very start.
The trail gains about 900-feet in elevation in its entirety, traversing about 10 switchbacks up the mountain. The difficulty level of the trail varies somewhere between easy and moderate, making it ideal for most hikers including beginners.
After about two miles, you'll finally be treated to the sight of Island Lake. It may be small, but its beauty is remarkable, as it's completely surrounded by rugged mountain scenery.
Home to a small population of Brook trout, the lake is a nice site for fishing and camping. The lake feeds into Lamoille Creek, which tumbles down the mountains and through Lamoille Valley before joining the Humboldt River.
Perfect for a short day trip into the mountains, the Island Lake Trail belongs on your bucket list. Take a look at the trail map and plan your journey into the Rubies!
Have you checked off this mountain hike from your bucket list? There’s nothing better than exploring hidden gems in Nevada like this one. Share your thoughts with us in the comment section below!
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