Ireland Lake Trail

Dogs No Dogs

Features Birding · Lake · River/Creek · Swimming · Views · Wildflowers · Wildlife

The trailhead for the Ireland Lake Trail can be accessed on from a 2.8-mile climb on the turnoff from Lyell Canyon. Another point of access is the 3.5-mile section via the Evelyn Lake trail.

From the trailhead, there will be a short, gradual climb on well-manicured singletrack. To reach the lake, only a 1.5-mile jaunt is required that possesses virtually no difficulty. However, the hiker will experience an increased gradient on the way out to the lake.

During this excursion, one will notice trees and other forms of vegetation for the first 0.75 miles. It is after this point where the uniqueness of the trail is most fully realized as the landscape suddenly becomes quite barren. Although there are some smaller plant species and flowers, the vast majority is just a wide open space in which the visitor can take in the majestic views of the incredible peaks that encompass the entirety of Ireland Lake.

The trail meanders gently through this distinct landscape that is populated not with trees, but instead with small to medium sized boulders. The magnitude of what the eyes experience while viewing the majestic peaks that seem to protect this peculiar landscape.

Wildflowers are very prominent as the lake has virtually no other cover whatsoever.