Silver Lake Way Trail

Silver Lake Way Trail has a devoted following, and we expect it to continue to grow. This pretty hike features a lake with towering mountains all around, which is especially brilliant in the sun. It’s a bit steep and a good workout, so poles are recommended.

Begin from the Silver Lake Way Trailhead off the forest road. The road has had some work done to it recently, so it’s thankfully not quite as bad as it used to be. You’ll hike south with the creek to your right. Don’t mistakenly take the old trailhead which is just west of the river. You’re going to want the new and improved experience. Climbing very gradually along the creek, it’s all pretty relaxed until you cross the creek for the first time, which marks the beginning of the steeper section.

You’ll zig-zag across the creek on a more challenging trail, but most hikers report it’s not quite as bad as they thought it might be. You’ll follow the creek all the way to the shore of Silver Lake, your turnaround point. After enjoying the lake, retrace your steps, putting those poles to work on the initial descent.