After yesterday’s FANTASTIC hike to Lamoille Lake, we decided to hike to nearby Island Lake. Island Lake is a cirque lake, which is a lake that forms in a bowl-shaped depression carved into a mountain by a glacier. Who doesn’t like lakes?
This hike was shorter than the previous day, but had more climbing. I’d still rate it moderate but it’s well worth it. The trail climbs gently with about nine switchbacks. You get excellent views of the canyon the whole way up. The U-shaped profile of Lamoille Canyon is characteristic of valleys carved by glaciers. Whereas, the profile of valleys carved by streams are typically V-shaped.
The lake is true to name in that there is an island in the middle! It’s a very quiet, calming place to relax and enjoy nature. We topped out at 9,685′ today! If altitude bothers you this hike might be more challenging than the moderate rating it has.
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