Lily Pad Lake Trail

Lily Pad Lake is a well known destination just outside of Silverthorne and in the Eagle's Nest Wilderness. The trail may be heavily trafficked on the weekends, but solitude can still be found in the early mornings or during the weekdays.

The trail starts at the Lily Pad Lake Trailhead, just to the south of the Buffalo Cabin Trailhead. Be advised that these two trails start at different trailheads just mere yards apart. The trail starts on a service road with an immediate uphill climb. Thankfully the service road (and the incline) are short lived, as you will soon reach an open clearing with spectacular views of Silverthorne and Lake Dillon. Enjoy the view while you have it, because soon you will be entering a thick, old growth forest. Also, it should be noted that for the most part, the incline is already out of the way. The trail is pretty level from here on out.

Not far after entering the forest you will come to the Eagle's Nest Wilderness boundary. From here on, no mountain bikes are allowed. If you are hiking with your dog, please be courteous and bag your pet's poop as well as pack it out with you. 

After passing the boundary sign, you will soon reach a large beaver pond on the right. Keep your eyes peeled as you just may catch a glimpse of moose, deer, or elk. Continue on the trail to reach a long log bridge crossing over the marshy outlet of the pond. 

The trail will meander through the forest, sometimes passing through thick undergrowth, tall lodgepole stands, an occasional creek crossing, and few open clearings. 

At about a mile from the trailhead you will reach the junction with the Salt Lick Trail. Bear to the right to continue on your way to Lily Pad Lake. The trail here levels out at it's highest point and will travel along a smooth path. It's only half a mile more before you reach Lily Pad Lake.

The trail will descend slightly before dropping out at the shore of the first lake. Here is where the biggest and most abundant lily pads reside. If you hike this trail in mid to late June, the water lilies will be in fully bloom. The vibrant yellow blooms make a great setting to relax and enjoy a snack. 

The trail will continue onwards between the two lakes and will eventually lead you to a small "beach" on the shore of the second, and much larger lake.  Here the water is much more open, plus you will have a great view of Buffalo Mountain to the west.

Fishing is permitted in the second lake with a valid Colorado fishing license. There are many social trails that circumnavigate the lake and lead to many openings that are suitable for casting a line. Backpacking is also permitted on this trail; however, no campfires are allowed within a quarter mile of either lake, so plan accordingly. Please practice Leave No Trace ethics when camping in the backcountry.

If you wish to lengthen your adventure, the Lily Pad Trail will continue south towards the Meadow Creek Trail junction. This will add an additional one-way length of 2.6 miles.