About Island Lakes #1842
The Island Lakes trail begins about 1.5 miles up the Hooper Lake Trail #1860, passes Island Lakes, and ends at W Mountain Trail #1817. A 4WD vehicle is needed to access the trailhead. This trail has alternating steep and gradual sections as it crosses several watersheds. It offers many opportunities to take off on other trails and do trip extensions if you have the time. It is recommended to have good map and compass skills for this area as there is so much undulating terrain and multiple trail intersections.* There is a printable Recreation Quicksheet for this trail which is complete with directions, a map, details, and other information about this trail. Or to see quicksheets for other recreation areas across the Forest, click on the "Recreation Quicksheets" link in the right column and select the appropriate Ranger District.
How to Get There
From Eagle travel west on I-70 for 13 miles to the Dotsero exit, and follow the signs for Sweetwater/ Burns, turning north onto the Colorado River Road.Follow the Colorado River Rd. for 23.5 miles until you get to Cabin Creek Rd. and turn left.Stay on this road for 7 miles to the intersection with Stump Park Rd., FDR 610 and turn right.At the end of Stump Park Rd., FDR 610, the trailhead for Hooper Lake, FDT 1860 is accessible, follow this trail for about a 1/4 mile to the junction with Island Lake, FDT 1842.
Driving directions (Google Maps) →Plan Your Visit to Island Lakes #1842
Heading to Island Lakes #1842? A few things to know before you go:
- Reservations: popular sites fill up fast — check Recreation.gov 6 months in advance
- Fees: day-use and camping fees vary; check current rates on the official park page
- Trash & pack-out: follow Leave No Trace principles
- Wildlife: store food in bear boxes where provided; never feed wildlife
- Weather: the 5-day forecast above is updated every 6 hours; verify just before you go
Frequently Asked Questions
Do I need a reservation for Island Lakes #1842?
No central reservation system listed for Island Lakes #1842. Check the official page (https://www.recreation.gov/camping/campgrounds/10082782) for the latest entry policy and availability.
How do I get to Island Lakes #1842?
From Eagle travel west on I-70 for 13 miles to the Dotsero exit, and follow the signs for Sweetwater/ Burns, turning north onto the Colorado River Road.Follow the Colorado River Rd. for 23.5 miles until you get to Cabin Creek Rd. and turn left.Stay on this road for 7 miles to the intersection with Stump Park Rd., FDR 610 and turn right.At the end of Stump Park Rd., FDR 610, the trailhead for Hoope…
References & Official Resources
