Hello friends! I am Will, from Bushwhack Lodge in Lake City, Colorado. Our family enjoys exploring the local gems, and Goose Island on Lake San Cristobal is certainly one of our favorites.
Lake San Cristobal itself is a fascinating creation, formed around 700 years ago when the Slumgullion landslide blocked the river. Today, this sparkling blue lake is nestled beautifully within the majestic San Juan Mountains. Right in the middle lies Goose Island, a tiny yet captivating spot to visit.
The island gets its name quite simply: every spring, Canada geese nest there while raising their young. By summertime, they graciously move along, leaving Goose Island a peaceful haven for visitors to enjoy.
Reaching Goose Island is easy. From Lake City, head south on Highway 149, turn onto County Road 30 toward Lake San Cristobal, and in about ten minutes, you’ll reach a public boat ramp area. Here, you’ll find a delightful 220-foot suspension bridge made of steel grates and strong cables that was rebuilt in 2011. It’s sturdy enough to reassure adults yet offers just enough sway to delight kids, including my own four.
Once across, Goose Island provides a perfect setting to relax. An informative sign shares a bit about the island’s wildlife and history, but otherwise, the spot remains pleasantly untouched. It is often windy, like the day we shot these photos but still fun in any weather. Mornings tend to be calmer.
Photography enthusiasts and nature lovers alike will appreciate the scenic views: trout gliding beneath clear waters, eagles circling overhead, and stunning vistas of mountain peaks.
Accessibility-wise, Goose Island welcomes nearly everyone. Kids enjoy the excitement of crossing the bridge; older visitors appreciate the short, easy stroll, and casual explorers will love the natural beauty without much effort. The path and bridge aren’t ideal for wheelchairs or strollers due to natural terrain, but for most visitors, the visit is comfortably manageable.
Plan on spending about 30 minutes to an hour enjoying this charming spot. Or pack a lunch and hang out for a while. Do keep in mind the bridge is generally open from June through November, allowing privacy for the nesting geese during spring.
Goose Island might not be an epic adventure, but it is precisely the type of simple joy that makes Lake City special. When you’re in Lake City, consider adding Goose Island to your itinerary. There are plenty of other fun activities on Lake San Cristobal and we will try to get to those with future posts.
Happy exploring!
