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ForestMatters, LLC

Silver Lake Trail

Eldorado National Forest, California · 3 min read

Distance
6 mi
Elevation Gain
700 ft
Difficulty
easy-moderate
Route Type
Loop
Best Season
June through October
Dog Friendly
Yes
Difficulty Score
4 / 10

Trailhead Amenities

Restroom
Flush Restroom
Parking
Free
Cell Service
Limited
Water
Nearby
Camping
None
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Conditions, regulations, and fees change frequently. Verify with the local ranger district before your trip. Full disclaimer

At a Glance

  • Loop trail around Silver Lake at 7,200 feet with views of the surrounding Sierra peaks
  • Access to the Mokelumne Wilderness from the lake's eastern shore
  • Good trout fishing in Silver Lake
  • Accessible from Highway 88, a scenic alternative route to Kirkwood Ski Area
  • Wildflowers in the lake-fringing meadows through mid-July

Overview

Silver Lake sits at 7,200 feet in the Amador County section of the Eldorado National Forest, accessible from Highway 88 near the Kirkwood Ski Area. The 6-mile loop around the lake combines reservoir views, mountain meadow walking, and access to the Mokelumne Wilderness on the lake's eastern shore. Silver Lake is one of the most popular fishing and camping destinations on the Highway 88 corridor in California.

The loop trail stays mostly at lake elevation, making this one of the more relaxed hikes in the Eldorado despite the 7,200-foot elevation. The views across the lake to the volcanic terrain of the Mokelumne high country are the visual highlight, and the wildflower meadows on the western shore are among the more colorful in the forest in early July.

The Route

Resort Area to Western Shore (0 to 1.5 miles)

The loop begins at the Silver Lake Resort and heads counterclockwise (west then south) along the western shoreline. The first section passes through meadow terrain with lake views and wildflowers in early season. The trail surface is well-maintained.

Southern Shore (1.5 to 3.0 miles)

The trail crosses the southern end of the lake through denser lodgepole forest. The views of the lake and the surrounding peaks are continuous from the shore trail. The Mokelumne Wilderness boundary is accessible from the eastern shore by continuing past the lake.

Eastern Shore Return (3.0 to 5.0 miles)

The return along the eastern shore provides views toward the volcanic Mokelumne terrain and the High Sierra peaks visible to the southeast. The trail stays close to the lake margin throughout.

Resort Area Return (5.0 to 6.0 miles)

The final section returns to the resort area, completing the loop.

When to Hike

June through October is the accessible season. The Highway 88 corridor opens earlier than the Crystal Basin roads and Silver Lake is typically accessible by early June.

July wildflower peak in the meadows is a highlight of the loop. Fishing is best from June through September.

October brings excellent fall color to the aspens around the lake and the surrounding meadows. This is the quietest time of the accessible season.

What to Bring

Many hikers carry a liter or two of water for this shorter loop. The lake provides filtered water as needed. Sun protection is important on the open lake sections. Fishing gear and a California license add value.

Trailhead Access

Silver Lake Trailhead is at the Silver Lake Resort on Highway 88 east of Jackson and west of Kirkwood. The highway is paved. No fee or permit required for the loop trail (as of 2026). Flush restrooms at the resort area. Parking for 30 to 40 vehicles.

Dogs are permitted.

Nearby

Silver Lake is in the southern Eldorado near the Mokelumne Wilderness. Mokelumne Peak Trail accesses the wilderness high point from the Blue Lakes area nearby. Emigrant Lake Trail is in the same general Mokelumne corridor. The Crystal Basin (Loon Lake, Ice House, Wrights Lake) is 45 to 60 minutes north via forest roads for those combining with the northern Eldorado.

Check conditions using the USFS guide. Follow Leave No Trace principles on the popular lake loop.

Trailhead Parking

Paved lot at the Silver Lake Resort area on Highway 88 near Kirkwood. Space for 30 to 40 vehicles.

← Back to Eldorado National Forest

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Frequently Asked Questions

How long does the Silver Lake Trail take?
The 6-mile loop takes most hikers 2.5 to 3.5 hours at a comfortable pace. The minimal elevation change makes this one of the more relaxed full-loop hikes in the Eldorado, suitable for most hikers.
Is Silver Lake Trail dog friendly?
Yes, dogs are permitted on the Silver Lake loop. Keep dogs on leash in the resort area and under voice control on the trail sections near the lake.
Is fishing available at Silver Lake?
Yes. Silver Lake holds rainbow and brown trout and is popular with anglers from the Highway 88 corridor. A California fishing license is required (as of 2026). Boat fishing is permitted on Silver Lake and rental boats are sometimes available at the resort.