Silver Dollar Lake Trail #79

Trail Difficulty: Moderate (Silver Dollar Lake Trail), Easy/ Moderate (Naylor Lake)

Trail Description:
The trail begins at the first parking lot just off Guanella pass road (a new paved parking lot with plenty of spaces provided you get there early)- the first ¼ mile of the hike is a four-wheel drive road that leads to a second parking lot and the trailhead.

This trail leads to two different lakes through quiet forest and eventually opening up into lakes and high snow-covered peaks. If you hike this trail before July, plan on hiking through some snow in shady areas. (We went in June and lost the trail several times because of the snow).

We chose to hike only to the first lake (Naylor Lake) because the steep boulder field leading to Silver Dollar Lake. Eating on the top of the hill overlooking Naylor Lake was quite beautiful and refreshing with the sun and the brisk wind.

Restrooms available at campground.

Picnic recommendations:
Overlooking the first lake (Nylor Lake)

Travel Time:
Approximately 1 hour 15 minutes from Jct. I-70 and C-470.

Travel Directions:
Take I-70 out of Denver west approximately 35 miles to Georgetown. Exit Georgetown (exit #228). Go left under the interstate and then right onto Rose St. for .4 mi. then turn left (east) onto 10th St. Follow it until it changes name to Guanella PassRd/ CR 381. Take CR 381 up the side of the mountain approximately 9 miles to the Guanella Pass Campground. Just a short distance south of the campground is a parking area on the side of the road for the trailhead.

Special Attractions:
Georgetown offers an old historic main street with shops and restaurants. Be sure to visit the town – walk around and notice the beautiful flowers and tourists.

If you are hungry for lunch and want to dine outside, try The Happy Cooker Restaurant. You can eat outside in the fenced garden. The food is good and the prices are reasonable too.

If you want a sweet treat, be sure to try the ice cream at the Georgetown Valley Candy Factory (500 Sixth St.). You’ll be sure to find something to suit your tastes. We love their homemade ice cream!!

It’s a good idea to plan to spend at least 30 minutes walking through town.

If you want another activity that you and your kids will love, try the steam locomotive that travels from Georgetown to Silver Plum and back again. Get tickets in town or at the depot.