Island Lake Hike in the Rawah Wilderness

The Rawahs are an unsung corner of wilderness in northern Colorado. This hike will begin and end at the West Branch trailhead along Laramie River Road. We will hike along the West Branch Trail about 7 miles to Island Lake. We may also hike the additional 1/4 mile to Carey Lake.  The trail begins along the road for a hundred yards before diving into thick willows heading west along the creek. The trail then arrives at a bridge which marks the start of the more narrow, uphill and root-strewn section which we can expect for the duration of the hike. The grade isn't bad, but it is sustained and some switchback sections can be tough. The tree cover and undergrowth make for a very pleasant hike and provides much appreciated for shade. The higher in elevation we get, the more frequent the meadow crossings with views of the peaks to the west. The creek is an ever-present with easy access for filterable water. There are a few water crossings with logs to assist in deeper creek crossings. The last mile of the trail, the grade kicks it up a notch as we get above timberline. The trail peters out at the end and will travel off-trail to the lake. The plan will be to stop along the way for clothing adjustments, snack breaks, etc. I would like to have our lunch break at the lake. After lunch and enjoying the views, we will follow our route back to the trailhead. When we hiked this area in mid July, the wild flowers were spectacular!!