The Gift of Strangers on the Ice Lake Trail, Silverton, CO

I booked two nights at the hostel, hoping it would be enough with the break I need from the weather.

Coming early in the morning to find a bed turns out to be a smart move, as I am not the only one who thinks avoiding being outdoors in this weather is a good idea. Many thru-hikers from the Colorado Trail are flooding the town in search of shelter.

The rain for the next few days will be on and off. There is one hike I am looking forward to. It is at the top of my list of things to do in the area. So I decided to take my chance.

By 7:30, I am at the trailhead to Ice Lake. From the reviews I read, this hike is considered hard and challenging, but every review mentioned it was well worth the effort. The morning temperatures are in the mid-30’s. I know I will warm up soon enough as I climb in elevation, and my body will warm from the effort.

It doesn’t take long before I am huffing and puffing. Oh yes, this is a hard hike. Several times, the thought of turning around crosses my mind. I remind myself that I am here to celebrate nature—whether I make it to the lake or not is not the point.

I keep going, pushing hard and maintaining a positive mindset. The landscape mesmerizes me with its beauty and softens the edge of my effort. I pass a small waterfall, cross a stream, and still every step is uphill.

At an intersection, I stop for a break. Two men are standing and talking. I assume they are together. After a quick conversation, it turns out Nick and Steve are just taking a break, like me. I voice my thoughts of turning around as the hike is truly kicking my butt. It turns out I am not the only one with the same thought.

After a good rest and introductions, we discover that all three of us are from the East Coast, which is quite amusing. We make a kind of collective decision to continue as a group. Maybe sharing the challenge will help us all. Somehow, I end up in the lead, which actually helps me push on. Between catching our breath, we get to know each other better and begin to bond.

I already know my photos will not come close to capturing the beauty we are witnessing. This hike is incredible, and one of the most stunning I have ever experienced.

Half an hour later, another woman catches up with us. Funny enough, Sasha is from Connecticut. We form our tribe: four strangers bonded through challenge and the desire to be at one with nature.

We are all in awe as we reach Ice Lake (about 12,300 feet in elevation). Its blue water, embraced by the mountains around it, feels like a love story written by nature. Mother Nature plays with us. In a short period of time, we experience hail, rain, strong winds, and then a smile from the sun peeking between the clouds.

My original plan was to only hike to Ice Lake, but when my tribe decides to push on to Island Lake (about 12,400 feet in elevation), I consider my options. I realize I am not ready to let go of the magic of strangers bound together by the wilderness.

The path to Island Lake is more than I would normally choose to handle, with narrow edges that terrify me. I feel deeply grateful for Nick’s helping hand.

When we arrive at Island Lake, I feel as though I have found the spot for my little cabin. How wonderful it would be to have my own island!

There is something profoundly special about experiencing a lake at such high elevation, surrounded by majestic mountains. The colors are mind-blowing—so pure and saturated that they feel like honesty itself.

I know very well that what goes up must come down. Many times on the climb, my thoughts wandered to the steep descent ahead. Before heading down, I put braces on both knees to ease the pressure.

Somehow, our group splits in two: Nick and Steve fall behind, while Sasha and I hike together up front.

I am completely impressed with Sasha. It feels like I have found a kindred spirit. At times, it is as though I am looking in a mirror. Her wisdom and outlook on life reflect mine like a clear reflection on a still lake.

After six hours, 8.5 miles, and 2,657 feet of elevation gain, our goodbye is filled with gratitude for one another.

This hike, and the beautiful spirits I had the honor of sharing it with, will forever hold a special place in my heart.

Thank you, Sasha, Nick, and Steve. It has been an honor and a pleasure to share this hike with you.

That evening, back in Silverton, Sasha and I met for dinner to continue our deep conversation.

The combination of nature and wonderful souls are the treasures of my life.