Whitney lake is a very popular hiking spot located about 20 minutes south of Vail. The trail is al little over 2.5 miles to the lake and is a moderate hike. Being that the hike is short and fairly easy, this is a great backpacking spot for someone looking for something quick or for a first time trip. 

I spent a night here a couple years back and we loved it! It was my first backpacking trip and we managed to get the lake to ourselves. There are some"spots" around the lake that have been built up over time with a rock walk fore pit and some log benches. This is dispersed camping, no cell service or facilities. We had a really great night here, the lake has a great view of Savage Mountain behind it and there is some good fishing here as well. 

Sorry for the bad photos, they were taken a few years back.