ISLAND LAKE

THE STORY. . . “Good morning fellow campers! For breakfast, we will be serving a two mile hike, featuring total exhaustion with a side of altitude sickness. Let’s get those boots laced up!”

The bubbly voice of a flight attendant talking over the intercom runs through my imagination as we make our way up the basin trail to the elusive Island Lake. Gravity is mashing the spinal column with punishing force, but the promise of a legendary destination keeps the pace brisk and the spirits high. When we finally arrive, Mother Nature delivers in spectacular fashion. Ribbons of cloud stream across the sky as a perfect reflection mirrors the rising cliffs. Emerald and sapphire emanate from the water as a beautiful morning unfolds to meet the day.

“Ladies and gentlemen please place your seat-backs and tray tables in their upright positions. Thank you for flying Air Colorado.”