Silver Lake Loop, Big Cottonwood Canyon, Utah

A Gentle Loop That Delivers Big on Scenery

Silver Lake Loop Utah is the kind of trail that makes you fall in love with hiking from the first few steps. Nestled high in Big Cottonwood Canyon near the Brighton Ski Resort, this flat, mile-long path wraps around a sparkling alpine lake surrounded by forest, peaks and if you’re lucky a moose or two grazing near the shoreline.
With wide boardwalks and smooth dirt paths, the trail is accessible to almost everyone. Whether you’re new to hiking, bringing small kids or just want a peaceful nature walk, Silver Lake proves you don’t need elevation to enjoy elevation-level views.

Why This Trail Is Made for First-Time Hikers

🪵 Boardwalk Paths: Much of the loop is on a wide, elevated wooden boardwalk—no rocks, no roots just a smooth stroll through meadows and pines.

🦌 Wildlife Galore: Silver Lake is known for wildlife sightings, especially moose in the early morning or evening. Bring your camera and keep a respectful distance.

🌼 Alpine Beauty: In summer, wildflowers paint the meadows in bursts of color. Fall brings golden aspen leaves and crisp air, both perfect for beginner-friendly photoshoots.

🌄 Mountain Views Without the Climb: The surrounding peaks reflect off the lake, offering postcard-worthy views with none of the exertion.

Need-to-Know Trail Details

  • 📍 Location: Brighton, Utah (Big Cottonwood Canyon)
  • 🗺️ GPS Coordinates: 40.6046° N, 111.5841° W (Google Maps)
  • 🥾 Distance: 0.9-mile loop
  • ⏱️ Estimated Time: 30–45 minutes
  • ⬆️ Elevation Gain: Minimal (~30 feet)
  • ⭐ Difficulty: Very Easy (perfect for beginners and families)
  • 🐕 Dog-Friendly: No (dogs are not allowed in Big Cottonwood Canyon)
  • 🚽 Facilities: Flush restrooms and large parking lot at the trailhead
  • 🧭 Trail Type: Loop

What to Bring for the Best Experience

✅ Comfortable sneakers or light trail shoes—no technical gear needed
✅ Water bottle, especially on warm days (it’s at high elevation)
✅ Light jacket or hoodie—temps are cooler in the mountains
✅ Binoculars or camera for wildlife watching
✅ Sunscreen and sunglasses—shade is intermittent
✅ Bug spray in summer months

🕓 Best Seasons to Visit:

June through October. Snow often lingers into late spring. Fall offers incredible color and fewer crowds. Whatever season you decide to start hiking and this trail is the one you choose, make sure you understand how clothing is essential to your first hike on our blog post.

Why Silver Lake Should Be Your First Utah Hike

This trail is proof that “easy” doesn’t mean “boring.” From mountain reflections on the lake to possible moose sightings and breezy boardwalk paths, Silver Lake Loop packs maximum beauty into a super manageable walk. It’s a welcoming, no-pressure way to ease into hiking and a perfect place to reconnect with nature at your own pace.