Ice Lake Trail

Overview

Ice Lake Trail is a short, easy outing to a peaceful, pine-rimmed lake just off the Norris–Canyon Road. It’s about 1.0 mile total (out-and-back) with essentially no elevation to speak of, making it a great leg-stretcher or kid-friendly walk. Expect a mellow forest path that pops you onto the lake’s western shore.

Some hikers find Ice Lake itself underwhelming because shoreline brush and downed trees can limit views. If you have time, the better play is to fold this stop into the loop that visits Little Gibbon Falls—still easy, but with more variety and scenery.

Route Choices

• Core hike: From the signed Ice Lake trailhead, the mostly level singletrack leads through lodgepole forest to the lake’s west shore and nearby designated backcountry campsites; return the same way (1.0 mile total).
• Add-on loop: Link Ice Lake with Little Gibbon Falls via the Wolf Lake/Howard Eaton Trail for roughly 3.9 miles total and about 249 feet of gain. Expect soggy meadows, muddy stretches, and a couple of log crossings. If you only have one car, plan a short roadside walk between the Ice Lake and Wolf Lake pullouts (about a quarter mile).

What You’ll See

It’s a quiet, reflective lake with birdlife—Canada geese and ducks are common—and a tranquil forest vibe. The loop variation adds a waterfall viewpoint and sections through old burn with stark standing snags and regrowth.

Wildlife, Bears, and Fishing

Bears frequent this area—carry bear spray, make noise, and give wildlife space. In fall you may hear elk bugling, and wolves are occasionally heard in the broader area. Anglers report lake trout in Ice Lake; permits are required, and backcountry food storage rules apply.

Best Time to Hike

Late spring through early fall is typical. Early mornings are your best bet for solitude and calm water. Mosquitoes can be intense in June and early July—bring repellent. Expect wet or muddy patches early season; waterproof footwear helps. September brings comfortable daytime highs but cold nights, so pack layers if you’re camping.

Regulations and Logistics

No pets on trails. Day hiking requires no permit; overnight stays are allowed only at designated backcountry sites and require a permit. Campfires are limited to established fire rings at those sites, and all food must be stored properly. Stay on established trails; don’t attempt unsafe log crossings.

Bottom Line

As a standalone, Ice Lake is a pleasant but modest destination. It shines as a quick, flat nature break—or as the first chapter of a bigger, still-easy loop that adds Little Gibbon Falls and more diverse scenery.