Silver Lake: the best kid-friendly hike in Utah
Alright, if you’re from Utah, chances are, you’ve been to Silver Lake before because it is AMAZING. It’s perfect for kids, adults and everyone in between. You’re hard pressed to find such a beautiful landscape that is ultra accessible any where else in the world. No joke! So check out this kid-friendly hike below.
As a mother of five, I am always looking for opportunities to get our kids outdoors. But not all hikes are created equal. And it’s difficult to cater to our baby and our 11-year-old at the same time. That’s why I love Silver Lake. It’s the kid-friendly hike you’ve always hoped for. But don’t get it confused with Silver Lake in American Fork Canyon. That’s another beautiful lake but not the same. Here’s three reasons why you need to experience it for yourself.
#1: Stroller accessible
The first time we hiked around Silver Lake, I brought our umbrella stroller so I didn’t have to carry our two-year-old in a hiking pack. I was worried that I would run into some trouble, but the stroller worked great. There is a boardwalk that encompasses the entire lake, making it accessible to even those with disabilities. Some may argue that a boardwalk isn’t a hike, but at sitting at 8,760 feet elevation, right next to Brighton Ski Resort, I beg to differ.
#2: Tons of wildlife
Moose are regularly found munching on greenery right next to the boardwalk. Plus, there are tons of other mountain critters hanging around the area. Last time we were there, a momma duck and her little ducklings were waddling around the lake right next to us. Super cute.
#3: Fishing for everyone
The small high-elevation lake is stocked with trout every year. It’s the perfect place for kids to try their luck with some spinner reels and power bait.
#4: Perfect place for a picnic
Just an hour away from downtown Salt Lake, Silver Lake is the perfect place to bring a picnic lunch and enjoy the mountain air. There is a large grove of giant trees on the far side of the lake that provides 24/7 shade. It’s beautiful and relaxing. Bring a blanket and some snackies and enjoy.
#5: Explore even further up to Twin Lakes
If you want to continue the adventure, you can connect to the Twin Lakes trailhead. This out and back hike is very moderate, heavily trafficked and is 2.25 miles round trip.
#6: Open all year round
This trail is located right next to Brighton Ski Resort, so you can access it all year round. Most people love walking this trail in the summertime but it’s just as majestic and beautiful in the winter as well.
How to get to this kid-friendly hike
On the east side of Salt Lake City, take I-215 to the 6200 South off-ramp (Exit 6). Drive south following the road signs to the Brighton and Solitude ski resorts. Follow the signs to Big Cottonwood Canyon Road (7000 South Wasatch Blvd.) and continue driving 14.2 miles up the canyon to the Silver Lake Visitor’s Center. The Silver Lake loop trail follows the boarded walkway around Silver Lake. There is a parking lot and bathrooms at the trailhead.
What other fun, kid-friendly hikes would you recommend in Utah? Leave your comments below.
Related link: Five hidden gems at Red Castle Lakes
