Silverton Colorado Hiking Trails: Best of Southwest Colorado
Adventure awaits! Come to Silverton, CO to explore and discover the hidden gems of nature. Plus, it's right next door to our HQ.
Calling all nature lovers and adventure seekers! Discover the hidden gems of Silverton, Colorado, a hiker's paradise nestled in the heart of the San Juan Mountains and next door to our headquarters.
With its breathtaking landscapes, diverse wildlife, and exhilarating trails, Silverton offers an unforgettable hiking and camping experience for everyone from casual strollers to seasoned trekking enthusiasts.
Imagine immersing yourself in the pristine wilderness, exploring the area's most scenic trails, and uncovering the awe-inspiring beauty that awaits you around every bend. Read on to uncover our top picks for the best hiking trails around Silverton, Colorado, and start planning your next unforgettable outdoor adventure today!
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Points of Interest Around Silverton, Colorado
Located just north of Silverton, San Juan National Forest offers a spectacular natural setting with plenty of hiking trails and campsites. The forest boasts over 1.8 million acres of diverse landscapes and ecosystems, ranging from high alpine peaks to lush alpine meadows and canyons. Visitors to Silverton or the other towns of Ouray and Telluride can find plenty of recreational activities, including hiking, backpacking, camping, fishing, and wildlife viewing. .
Ice Lakes
Ice Lakes is a high alpine destination tucked away in the San Juan Mountains just east of Silverton. Known for its stunning turquoise waters and pristine natural surroundings, the lake is a must-see for anyone seeking a true wilderness experience. Camping is available on a first-come, first-served basis, and is dispersed, so no amenities. Explorers can enjoy hiking, photography, and fishing in the crystal-clear waters of Ice Lake. Be sure to check on accessibility to the lake due to snowfall the previous winter.
Andrews Lake
Andrews Lake is a picturesque mountain lake located just a short distance outside of Silverton. Popular with fishermen and kayakers, the lake is well-known for its wide variety of trout species. This is a day-use-only park accessible from US-550. Visitors can enjoy hiking, mountain biking, and boating on the clear waters of Andrews Lake. Though there is no camping in the park, it is a popular launch point to the Weminuche Wilderness for overnight backpacking trips.
Island Lake
Island Lake is a pristine wilderness gem that can be found along the Million Dollar Highway. Surrounded by rugged peaks and towering trees, the lake offers a peaceful getaway from the hustle and bustle of daily life. Only dispersed camping is available and there are no amenities except what you bring with you. Visitors can enjoy hiking, horseback riding, and fishing in the crystal-clear waters of Island Lake. It is a short 8-mile round trip hike from the trailhead in the Ice Lakes Area.
Little Molas Lake
Little Molas Lake is a popular camping destination located just a short drive from Silverton. The lake is surrounded by breathtaking mountain scenery and is a great place to enjoy a peaceful night under the stars. Camping is available as first come, first served only and amenities include picnic areas, campfire rings, and restrooms. Visitors can enjoy hiking, fishing, and boating in the clear waters of Little Molas Lake. It is a popular destination as well so, consider arriving Thursday evening to beat the crowd.
Animas River
The Animas River flows through the heart of Silverton down through Durango and is a popular destination for river rafting and tubing. The river offers Class II and III rapids, making it a great option for both beginner and intermediate-level rafters. Visitors can also enjoy fishing and swimming along the river, though the water is fresh from the mountains (cold!) and the banks are accessible only in certain locations not on private property.
Is all this outdoor activity healthy?
Ron Knezek
Million Dollar Highway
One of the most scenic drives whether in a car or on a motorcycle in the country, the Million Dollar Highway runs through the San Juan Mountains and offers breathtaking views of the surrounding peaks and valleys. The road is open year-round but can be challenging to navigate or closed during the winter months due to avalanches and rock slides. Visitors can expect to enjoy stunning vistas, hiking, and a variety of outdoor activities along the highway.
Coal Bank Pass
Coal Bank Pass is a high mountain pass located on the Million Dollar Highway that offers stunning views of the San Juan Mountains. The pass is open year-round but can be challenging to navigate during the winter months as well. It is a great place to stop just outside of Durango as you are beginning to enter the mountains en real to stretch. There is a parking lot and restroom facility at the pull off.
Molas Pass
Molas Pass is a high mountain pass located on the Million Dollar Highway that offers stunning views of the surrounding landscape. Even further north from Durango, this pass is a popular pull-off because of the amazing mountain scenery visible from the parking lot. Perfect spot for some photographs of Snowden Peak while the rest of the party uses the facilities.
Mountains To Climb
Silverton, Colorado is a breathtaking tapestry of soaring peaks, verdant forests, and pristine alpine meadows. These awe-inspiring ranges, part of the San Juan Mountains, offer a diverse and enchanting playground for outdoor enthusiasts. Here are some of the most popular climbing destinations:
North Twilight Peak
Located just north of Silverton, Colorado, North Twilight Peak offers stunning panoramic views of the surrounding mountain ranges. To access the peak, take US-550 south and turn right onto CR-7. Continue until you reach the trailhead at South Mineral Campground. The primary trail to reach North Twilight Peak is the Columbine Trail, which is a strenuous 7.5-mile round trip hike that will take you to the summit of North Twilight Peak.
Engineer Mountain
Engineer Mountain is a prominent peak visible from the town of Silverton, Colorado. To reach the peak, take US-550 south and turn right onto CR-2. Follow CR-2 until you reach the trailhead at Coal Bank Pass. The primary trail to access Engineer Mountain is the Engineer Mountain Trail, which is a challenging 4.6-mile round trip hike that offers stunning views of the surrounding peaks and valleys.
Kendall Peak
Kendall Peak is a 13,052-foot mountain located just east of Silverton, Colorado in the San Juan Mountains. To access the peak, take US-550 south and turn right onto CR-7. Continue until you reach the trailhead at South Mineral Campground. The primary trail to reach Kendall Peak is the Ice Lakes Trail, which is a strenuous 9.6-mile round trip hike with an elevation gain of over 3,000 feet.
Spencer Basin
Spencer Basin is a high alpine basin located southeast of Silverton, Colorado. To reach the basin, take US-550 south and turn right onto CR-7. Continue until you reach the trailhead at South Mineral Campground. The primary trail to access Spencer Basin is the Ice Lakes Trail, which is a challenging 8.2-mile round trip hike with an elevation gain of over 2,500 feet. The destinations are both Sugarloaf Pass and Arrastra Pass.
American Basin
Located just south of Silverton, Colorado, American Basin is a stunning high alpine basin surrounded by 13,000 and 14,000-foot peaks. To access the basin, take US-550 south and turn right onto CR-30. Continue until you reach the trailhead at the end of the road. The primary trail to reach American Basin is the American Basin Trail, which is a moderate 2.5-mile round trip day hike that starts at the trailhead and takes you through the basin. The mountains and summits comprising the American basin are American Peak, Handies Peak, Jones Mountain, and Niagra Peak. Many backpackers take a few days to hike through all of these peaks in a single trek.
This is bear country!
Ron Knezek
Other Popular Hiking Trails Near Silverton
We have covered quite a few places to hike already and we are only scratching the surface of what is available in the Silverton area. Here are some more of the best trails along with their trail levels. Oh, don't let the focusing on hikes deter you from bringing your mountain bike.
Colorado Trail
This scenic trail is around 486 miles long, starting from Durango and reaching Denver. However, for the trail's section near Silverton, you can reach its most accessible point by taking the Million Dollar Highway towards the northeast. The trail's primary destination is its section called the "Collegiate East," offering 80 miles of high alpine traverses, mountain passes, and serene forests. The the Colorado Trail trailhead location is around ten miles east of Silverton at Molas Pass on Highway 550's west side. The points of interest on the trail include magnificent ridges with a 360-degree view of the Rocky Mountains, fascinating wildlife, amazing wildflowers, and much more. The difficulty rating of this trail is intermediate to advanced.
Crater Lake Trail
For the Crater Lake Trail, start at Cement Creek Road outside the town of Crested Butte. The trail's primary destination is the stunning, emerald-blue Crater Lake perched up in the mountains, surrounded by spruce and fir trees. The trailhead location is near the Schofield Pass, accessible by taking Gothic Road out of Crested Butte to Gothic and continuing over the pass. The points of interest on the trail include stunning views of Gothic Mountain, picturesque waterfalls, and finally reaching Crater Lake, which gives a sense of serenity and tranquility. The difficulty rating of this trail is intermediate.
Highland Mary Lakes Trail
Take the US-550 S highway east from Silverton to reach the Highland Mary Lakes Trail. The trail's primary destination is the three serene and pristine Highland Mary Lakes, set high in the San Juan Mountains. The trailhead is located about nine miles southeast of Silverton off County Road 7. The points of interest on the trail include enchanting wildflowers, crystal-clear water streams, stunning panoramic views of the San Juan Mountains, and wild-life sightings. The difficulty rating of this trail is intermediate and is doable in a day hike round trip.
Engineer Mountain Trail
The Engineer Mountain Trail's starting point is located near Molas Pass along Highway 550. The trail's primary destination is Engineer Mountain, offering incredible views of Silverton, the Needles range, and the Animas River Valley. The trailhead location is at the Engineer Mountain Trailhead, located about 26 miles north of Durango on US-550. The points of interest on the trail include a stunning waterfall, wildflowers, and the exciting summit climb of Engineer Mountain. The difficulty rating of this trail is advanced.
Continental Divide Trail
To access the Continental Divide Trail's section near Silverton, take the US-550 S highway east towards Molas Pass. The trail's primary destination is the regal San Juan Mountains and their wilderness at their best. The trailhead location is between Durango and Silverton, near the Molas Divide Pass. The points of interest on the trail include the stunning views of the gorgeous peaks of the San Juan Mountains, the continental divide, and the pristine wilderness. The difficulty rating of this trail is advanced.
Perimeter Trail
The Perimeter Trail starts in the town of Silverton, Colorado. The trail's primary destination is its five miles of hiking, primarily providing breathtaking views of Silverton and Mineral Creek Valley. The trailhead location is around the outskirts of Silverton, making it easily accessible. The points of interest on the trail include wonderful mining ruins, fascinating wildlife, and a ghost town towards the end of the trail. The difficulty rating of this trail is intermediate.
Ice Lakes Trail
For the Ice Lakes Trail, take the US-550 highway east from Silverton for around six miles to its highest point at 11,120 feet. The trail's primary destination is the pristine and colorful Ice Lake, which offers a stunning visual delight to hikers. The trailhead location is at the South Mineral Campground, accessible from the highway. The points of interest on the trail include gorgeous wildflowers, stunning vistas, and the shimmering beauty of the Ice Lake. The difficulty rating of this trail is intermediate to advanced.
Camping
Dispersed camping in the Silverton, Colorado area offers nature lovers the unique opportunity to camp in the serene beauty of the San Juan Mountains. Unlike traditional campgrounds, dispersed camping allows for a more rustic and off-the-grid experience, where campers can set up their tents in designated areas on public lands, such as the San Juan National Forest or Bureau of Land Management (BLM) properties.
With no developed facilities, dispersed camping in the Silverton area requires self-sufficiency and adherence to Leave No Trace principles, ensuring the protection of the surrounding environment. While this form of camping provides unparalleled access to remote and secluded locations, it also demands proper planning, awareness of local regulations, and the utmost respect for the pristine wilderness.
Embarking on a dispersed camping adventure around Silverton allows you to fully appreciate the tranquility and untouched beauty of the Colorado backcountry, fostering a deeper connection with the natural world and creating memories that will last a lifetime.
Wrapping up Hiking Trails Around Silverton
To wrap it up, if you’re looking to add an unforgettable outdoor experience to your bucket list, then consider visiting Silverton. From its picturesque landscapes and mountain panoramas to its diverse wildlife and thrilling hiking trails, Silverton has something for everyone, no matter what your level of expertise.
Even if you don’t think camping is your thing, this area in Colorado is the perfect place to explore nature in its full glory and see why everyone from casual strollers to experienced trekkers loves adventure! And when all the exploring is over, I know you’ll be ready to relax and enjoy the fresh air by snuggling up by a campfire.
At this point, who doesn’t think that my family and I really love Silverton? So what are you waiting for? Make a plan because exploring the Silverton area is totally worth it. And, I may see you there! And don't forget - consider subscribing to stay tuned on my upcoming blog posts about camping adventures!
~ Ron
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