Silver Lake is a scenic high alpine lake situated between the Brighton Ski Resort and the Solitude Ski Resort. On the north side of the Solitude Nordic Center & Silver Lake Information Center is the trailhead to Silver Lake.
"Silver Lake, with its convenient access and remarkable beauty, is one of the most popular family destinations in Big Cottonwood Canyon. An amazing boardwalk trail loops through the wetlands around this sparkling alpine lake; the boardwalks protect the fragile environment, making its remarkable scenic splendor available to all. Teaming with small brook and rainbow trout, this lake is a treat for beginning anglers and children. Many families enjoy resting on the benches and watching fish snatch bugs off the water’s surface. Several fishing docks have been created to make fishing available for people with disabilities. Meandering through marshes, quaking aspen, and pine forests, the trail provides ample views of the lake’s beauty. Crossing the bridges, you may view fish swimming in the crystal clear waters." (
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"If you live along the Wasatch Front, especially in Salt Lake County, you may already know about the hiking trails in Big and Little Cottonwood canyons. The wildflower-lined trails provide a perfect way to beat the heat and escape the busy life of the city.
But did you know that the lakes you pass while hiking are full of fish?
They are, and they provide anglers who are willing to hike a close-to-home fishing opportunity in one of the most picturesque settings in the state.
Before you head into the canyons to fish or hike, please remember that both Big and Little Cottonwood canyons supply Salt Lake Valley residents with drinking water. You can't take domestic animals (dogs, cats and horses) into the canyons. Swimming is also prohibited, but fishing is allowed. Rafts or float tubes can be packed in and used for fishing. You must wear waders if you plan to enter the water.
As far as catching fish, you don't need to worry about taking live bait into these high-mountain lakes (although worms can be effective).
The most effective technique is to simply bring a small assortment of dark-colored artificial flies (sizes 18 or smaller) and a clear plastic bubble. Simply tie the small fly pattern onto your line about three to four feet behind the clear bubble, and cast it out. A very slow retrieve will keep the fly close to the surface. This is a very effective way to catch trout at these lakes.
The plastic bubble can be filled with water, but don’t do that — the bubble needs to be light so it and the fly can float on the surface of the water. “If you need some extra weight on your line so you can cast it farther,” says Scott Root, “you can add a sinker or two several inches above the bubble. Don’t place the sinkers between the bubble and the fly, though. If you add them between the fly and the bubble, the fly will sink."
Scott Root, a conservation outreach manager for the Division of Wildlife Resources, says the daily trout limit at the lakes is four trout. "Also," Root says, "please stay up-to-date on any fire restrictions in the area before you cook these tasty trout in the canyons.
At the top of Big Cottonwood Canyon, near Brighton Ski Resort, lies Silver Lake—the most popular lake in the canyons. A few yards from the parking area, you'll find a small visitor center and picnic tables surrounded by pine trees and other facilities, including restrooms.
A well-built boardwalk system allows you to walk above the wet meadow areas between the parking area and the lake.
Root says the area provides a scenic view of Silver Lake and the surrounding mountain landscape. "During the warmer months," he says, "we regularly stock Silver Lake with brook trout and rainbow trout. The wheelchair-accessible fishing pier along the boardwalk allows anglers to cast into the deepest part of the lake."
The lake is a popular attraction for anglers and hikers, so don't expect to be alone on the pier. If you're looking for some solitude, though, it's available in the canyons — you just have to hike a little farther to reach it. (
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