Colorado · Hiking
Hiking in Silverthorne, Colorado
Silverthorne sits at around 9,000 feet in Summit County, which means hiking here is a genuinely four-season pursuit if you know what you're getting into.
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Silverthorne sits at around 9,000 feet in Summit County, which means hiking here is a genuinely four-season pursuit if you know what you're getting into. The town's trail network spans a wide range of difficulty, from flat valley-floor walks like the Lily Pad Trail and the Recpath to the sustained grind up Buffalo Mountain Trail, which is rated hard and earns that label. In between, you have moderate options like the Gore Range Trail, which traces the eastern edge of the Eagles Nest Wilderness and rewards hikers with consistent views without demanding technical skills. Families and casual hikers have plenty of legitimate options too: Harrigan Creek Trail, Lost Lake Trail, Willow Lake Trail, and the BR-Ponds to Lily Pad Lake Trail are all rated easy and connect to actual destinations rather than just looping through parking lots. With 111 active listings in and around Silverthorne, the trail variety is real. The main thing to plan around is elevation and afternoon weather. Thunderstorms build fast over the Gore Range most summer afternoons, and trails above treeline can be exposed. Start early, carry layers, and check the forecast the morning you go.
Frequently asked questions
When is the best time of year to hike in Silverthorne?
July through September is the most reliable window for higher trails like Buffalo Mountain Trail and the Gore Range Trail, when snow has cleared and the ground is firm. Lower trails like the Recpath and Lily Pad Trail are often accessible from late May onward. October can be excellent for fall color with lighter crowds, but expect early snow above 11,000 feet.
What time of day should I start a hike here?
Start before 9 a.m. if you're heading above treeline. Afternoon thunderstorms are common in summer, typically building between noon and 3 p.m., and exposed ridgelines on routes like Buffalo Mountain Trail or the Gore Range Trail are not where you want to be when lightning moves in. Earlier starts also mean cooler temperatures and better parking at trailheads.
Are there good hiking options for beginners or families with kids?
Yes, and they go to real places rather than just wandering. The BR-Ponds to Lily Pad Lake Trail, Lost Lake Trail, Willow Lake Trail, and Harrigan Creek Trail are all rated easy and have clear destinations. The Recpath is a paved multi-use path that works well for young kids or anyone who wants a no-surprise outing. Acorn Creek Loop Trail is another easy option if you want a short loop format.
What gear do I need for hiking in Silverthorne?
Even on easy trails, bring a rain layer and an extra mid-layer because temperatures drop fast when clouds roll in. Sun protection matters more than most people expect at this elevation. For harder routes like Buffalo Mountain Trail, trekking poles help on the descent and microspikes are worth carrying into June if there's been a late snow year. Carry more water than you think you need since the dry air at altitude accelerates dehydration.
Do I need a permit or pass to hike these trails?
Most trails in and around Silverthorne do not require a permit for day hiking, but trailheads that access the Eagles Nest Wilderness, which includes sections of the Gore Range Trail, fall under Leave No Trace and group-size guidelines managed by the USDA Forest Service. Check current conditions and any temporary closures with the Dillon Ranger District before heading out, especially early or late in the season when trail status can change quickly.
