Ascending Hikes – Silver Dollar Lake - Silver Dollar Lake and Murray Lake Trail

Trip

Ascending Hikes – Silver Dollar Lake - Silver Dollar Lake and Murray Lake Trail

A ~ 5 mile hike to Silver Dollar Lake and Murry Reservoir in the Arapaho National Forest. Our hike starts at the TH parking area on Naylor Lake Road, just NW of Guanella Pass, and finishes at Silver Dollar Lake, a pristine mountain lake, surrounded by soaring cliffs and high peaks.

  • Easy
  • Easy
  • Mileage: 4.6 mi
  • Elevation Gain: 1,100 ft
  • High Point Elevation: 12,201 ft
  • Pace: 1.5-2.0 MPH

Carpool Place & Time: Meet at the Wooly Mammoth PnR, Section BB, at 6:30AM, for a 6:45AM departure (Wooly Mammoth Park-N-Ride - Google Maps)

We'll carpool to the Silver Dollar Lake TH Parking Lot (Silver Dollar Lake Trailhead - Google Maps)

This hike to Silver Dollar Lake and Murry Reservoir in the Arapaho National Forest is a moderately challenging trek that offers a blend of serene alpine beauty and rewarding vistas. Starting from the Silver Dollar Lake Trailhead near Guanella Pass, the trail ascends steadily through lush forests and open meadows filled with wildflowers. As we progress, we'll be treated to stunning views of the surrounding peaks and the pristine Naylor Lake along the way. The final stretch leads to the shimmering Silver Dollar Lake, nestled in a high alpine basin, where the crystal-clear waters reflect the towering mountains and provide a tranquil setting perfect for our lunch/snack. Our pace will accommodate all participants and we will return by the same route. (Silver Dollar Lake - CalTopo)

The Colorado Mountain Club's Ascending Hike Section (AHS) provides an opportunity to make new friends and explore new places in Colorado's backcountry, while increasing your personal hiking speed, strength, and stamina. The section is administered by CMC volunteers. There is no cost, fee, or scheduling commitment. There are no dues or elections. Open to all CMC members. To join the section, contact the CMC office. (Ascending Hikes Section — The Colorado Mountain Club (cmc.org))

Route/Place

Silver Dollar Lake


Roster
Required Equipment

Required Equipment

Ten essentials are required. Trekking Poles recommended.

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