Silver Lake — Attraction in Four Corners States

🌲 Silver Lake Visitor Center – Brighton, Utah ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️

Nestled in the breathtaking Uinta-Wasatch-Cache National Forest, the Silver Lake Visitor Center is a serene gateway to some of Utah’s most picturesque alpine scenery. From the moment you arrive, the peaceful ambiance and natural beauty of the area are absolutely captivating.

The visitor center provides helpful maps and clear trail information, making it a great starting point for outdoor exploration. It’s well-maintained and informative, with signage outlining recreation fee options, which are affordable and go directly toward forest upkeep. A 1-3 day pass is just $10, and there are convenient options to pay via envelope, machine, or Recreation.gov.

The trails around Silver Lake offer an easy walk that’s accessible to nearly all fitness levels. The boardwalk areas provide perfect spots for reflection—literally and figuratively—as the lake mirrors the sky and surrounding pine-covered mountains. During my visit, the landscape was dotted with lingering snow patches, trickling streams, and a peaceful hush only nature can provide.

Highlights included: • 🦆 Watching ducks glide across the lake’s glassy surface • 🌄 Stunning views of the sun cresting over the mountains • 🌲 Quiet forest paths lined with evergreens and the occasional snow-covered log • 🪵 A charming wooden bench on the boardwalk overlooking marshland and alpine meadows

Whether you’re into light hiking, birdwatching, or simply soaking in mountain tranquility, Silver Lake is a gem that shouldn’t be missed. Don’t forget your camera—every angle is postcard-worthy.

📍 Location: Silver Lake Visitor Center Big Cottonwood Canyon, near Brighton Ski Resort, Utah (Easy access from Salt Lake City via UT-190)

Highly recommended for nature lovers, families, and anyone looking to disconnect and...

A beautiful scenic drive up the canyon takes you right to the lake. I helped volunteer with the BLM for a local community youth event and had a great time. The trails were well defined and easy to see the entire day hiking around with elementary students. Lots of wildlife around to really bring in the great outdoor nature vibes. The hike was great for younger kids because it offered some steep grades hiking to view points over the lake but it wasn’t too intense for any of the 5th graders we were with. I went in the late fall too and all the trees were going off with beautiful colors. A solid nature spot that you can drive to in about 20 or so min from SLC depending on traffic: I’ll definitely be going back when the weather gets...

Absolutely beautiful lake with a very easy, calm and simple trail that rings around it. It has information stands that tells you about the land, creatures and critters that are nearby! You can fish in the lake and there’s so much to see! I know there’s more trails you can head off onto as well.y wife and I spotted squirrels, swallows, fish and this beautiful Stellar Blue Jay! There’s a decent amount of parking though it does get busy. The people around here are friendly and they have picnic tables to enjoy a nice lunch...