Silver Lake – Big Cottonwood Canyon
- Location: Brighton, Utah – Big Cottonwood Canyon
- GPS Coordinates – 40.60351 N (latitude) and – 111.5847 W (longitude)
- Trail Rating: EASY – The boardwalk is wheelchair and stroller accessible
- Length of Trail: approx. 0.8 miles long
What Makes This Place Special: The Wildlife
At Silver Lake, you can expect to see a variety of wildlife including:
- Moose: These are perhaps among the most exciting wildlife to spot around Silver Lake. With a little luck, you can spot them in the early mornings or evenings near the water.
- Deer: Visitors report seeing mule deer as they graze in the meadows or near the forest’s edge.
- Birds: The area is a haven for bird watchers. You might see waterfowl like ducks and geese on the lake, as well as birds of prey such as hawks and occasionally eagles. Songbirds and hummingbirds are also prevalent during the warmer months.
- Squirrels and Chipmunks: These chittering, chattering acrobats of the forest are commonly seen performing in the trees overhead for your amusement.
- Beavers: There are beaver ponds at Silver Lake, and if you’re lucky, you might spot these industrious animals or at least see the evidence of their presence through chewed tree stumps and dams.
- Dragonflies: Silver Lake offers an enchanting glimpse into the world of dragonflies. From the vibrant hues of the Flame Skimmer to the delicate wings of the Common Whitetail, the area around this alpine lake serves as a bustling hub for these fascinating insects.
Respecting Wildlife: The Key to Safe and Responsible Observation
While enjoying the wildlife, it’s crucial to keep a safe distance, especially from larger animals like moose, which can be unpredictable. Always follow wildlife-watching guidelines to ensure your safety and the well-being of the animals.
Bonus for History Buffs:
A plaque near the parking lot of Silver Lake commemorates the very 1st Pioneer Day – which is celebrated annually on July 24th.
July 24th, 1847 is when Brigham Young and the first group of Mormon pioneers entered the Salt Lake Valley, marking the end of their epic journey from Illinois to find a new home where they could practice their religion freely.
July 24th is a state holiday in Utah and involves a wide range of activities and events that celebrate the pioneer’s heritage and history of Utah’s settlement and development.
Note: If you’re in the Salt Lake area on July 24th – Pioneer Day, there is an annual, 5-mile hike in Emigration Canyon. The event is open to everyone and is free to enter.
Nearby Hikes:
Starting from Silver Lake in Brighton, Utah, there are several more challenging hiking trails that venture deeper into the Wasatch Mountains and offer stunning vistas, access to remote alpine lakes, and opportunities to encounter local wildlife. Here are a few notable hikes that begin near Silver Lake:
- Twin Lakes Trail: This trail heads up from Silver Lake towards Twin Lakes Reservoir. The path is steeper and more rugged than the boardwalk around Silver Lake, offering hikers a moderate challenge. The hike provides beautiful views of the surrounding mountains and the reservoir itself, which is a picturesque alpine lake nestled in a glacial cirque.
- Lake Solitude Trail: Another popular hike is the trail to Lake Solitude. It’s a bit longer and takes you through diverse terrain, including meadows, forested areas, and rocky paths. The destination, Lake Solitude, is a peaceful and scenic alpine lake that offers a tranquil setting for relaxation and reflection. The hike to Lake Solitude is well-loved for its beautiful wildflowers in the summer and the stunning fall colors.
- Sunset Peak Trail: For those seeking a more strenuous hike with rewarding views, the hike to the summit of Sunset Peak is an excellent choice. This trail offers panoramic views of the Wasatch Mountains, including Brighton, Solitude, and even distant views of Park City and Heber Valley. The trail can be accessed by branching off from the main paths around Silver Lake and involves a steady climb to the peak’s summit.
- Catherine’s Pass Trail: Leading to Catherine’s Pass, this trail offers access to breathtaking views and connects to other trails leading to Lake Catherine, Lake Mary, and Lake Martha (collectively known as the Brighton Lakes). The trail to Catherine’s Pass is steep in sections but rewards hikers with expansive views of both Big Cottonwood Canyon and Little Cottonwood Canyon.
These hikes vary in length and difficulty, but all offer a deeper exploration of the Wasatch Mountains’ natural beauty. Hikers should be prepared with appropriate gear, water, and knowledge of the area’s weather conditions, as mountain weather can change rapidly.
Additionally, because these trails are in a watershed area, dogs and other pets are not allowed in order to protect the water quality.