Easily accessible high alpine lakes can be hard to come by in the Rockies, especially if you’re not looking to embark on a lengthy, strenuous hike through wild backcountry terrain. That being said, the breathtaking 3.3-mile Silver Dollar Lake Trail off Guanella Pass offers immense rewards for a minimal amount of time and effort. You’d never expect to find such a short, moderately rated trail near Denver that affords utterly breathtaking views of the Arapaho National Forest and pristine alpine lakes in an valley high above treeline at 11,950 feet. Strike out on the Silver Dollar Lake Trail soon, and I promise, you won’t soon forget it! (As if you needed yet another reason to take Guanella Pass this autumn season.)
Photo by Reid Phillips
Roughly 50 miles from Denver, the parking area and Silver Dollar Lake Trailhead are located just south of Georgetown off Guanella Pass, and are fairly easily to miss if you're not paying close attention. (From I-70, take exit #228 for Georgetown, follow signs through town for Guanella Pass, and continue 9.9 miles until you see the parking lot on the right. A 4WD road continues .6 miles to the trailhead, and while some 2WD vehicles can make the drive, it's not recommended.)
Photo by Reid Phillips
The trail begins at 11,235' and climbs briefly and steadily through the woods of the Arapaho National Forest before emerging through the last traces of treeline.
You'll catch a glimpse of Naylor Lake which rests at 11,605', and although it looks quite inviting from this vantage point, it's located on private property, so be respectful and stay on the trail.
After a delightful journey through the open tundra and vista views that induce peace and tranquility in even the most troubled soul, you will enter the miracle.
Located just 1.65 miles from the trailhead in a broad alpine valley at 11,950', lies Silver Dollar Lake, a prime spot for picnicking, fishing, exploring, and the like.
But remember that you're at nearly 12,000' so bring plenty of layers, as the weather this time of year can turn cold, windy, and even snowy rather quickly. Always be prepared!
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Photo by Reid Phillips
Silver Dollar Lake is framed by Mount Wilcox (13,408') to the north and Square Top Mountain (13,794') to the south, seen here with a fresh dusting of October snow.
Photo by Reid Phillips
There's also the option to travel the well-defined trail that leads half a mile further to Murray Lake in an upper mountain valley at 12,178' just below the Continental Divide. (This addition will make your journey 4.3 miles roundtrip.)
Photo by Reid Phillips
As you make your way back through the open alpine tundra, you'll be gobsmacked by the subtle nuances of the fall foliage proudly bearing shades of rust and orange and gold.
Photo by Reid Phillips
Also take time to appreciate the intricately designed geological treasures along the trail, boasting shimmering pink, stark white, and lichen-covered gray rocks of all shapes and sizes.
Photo by Reid Phillips
Breathe in one last long lustful look down the magical valley...
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Photo by Reid Phillips
...bid adieu to the lovely Naylor Lake, and wind your way on down the line with a lighter heart and a clearer mind.
