Set in a valley and surrounded by the dramatic peaks, Silver Jack Reservoir is a remote high alpine lake in Colorado with plenty of easy activities at your fingertips.
It’s a long dirt road to the reservoir, but the scenery on Owl Creek Pass from Ridgway is worth the drive itself. I stumbled onto Silver Jack Reservoir years ago on a girls weekend when we were looking for alternative camping destinations around Ridgway. Parking the van on top of a large field, we found a beautiful spot to camp. From there, we watched the sun set after a day of exploring the trails and enjoyed happy hour down by the water. The stunning scenery and quiet camping drew us in.
A couple years later, I returned with my husband and 1 year old in August. Silver Jack Reservoir is a great spot to camp with kids because there’s short, flat trails to or near lakes, a big sandy beach to picnic and play on, and ample camping options.
After a leisurely breakfast at camp with the family, we packed our gear and set out for a short walk around the reservoir. By the time it had warmed up around noon, it was perfect beach weather. Dragging chairs, a picnic, and toys down to the sandy beach, the hours of the afternoon flew by. With warm sunshine and a cool drink, this was an easy place to let the day drift away.
When to Visit Silver Jack Reservoir:
With the lake located at 9,000 feet, I’ve attempted to camp around Silver Jack Reservoir for Memorial Day weekend and have had to turn around due to snow. The road is usually clear by early to mid June, but it depends on the snow pack. July and August are the warmest months to visit Silver Jack Reservoir and hang out at the lake. Although early fall would be cool at this elevation, it would make for spectacular leaf peeping.
Things to do at Silver Jack Reservoir:
Hiking:
- Cowboy Lake Trail: The trail follows the shoreline about halfway down the reservoir until it connects with other trails for longer adventures. Catch the trail on the north end of the reservoir.
- Clear Lake Trail: Located on the north-east side of the reservoir, the Clear Lake Trail starts about a mile up a dirt road. There’s a small lake to walk around at the start of the trail. Alternatively, you can continue about ¾ of a mile and 100 ft of climbing along the trail to more high alpine lakes.
- Beaver Lake: A short and flat half mile trail circles the lake, perfect for little legs and short attention spans. The trailhead is located north of the reservoir, off of County Road 858.
- Alpine Trail: If you’re looking for a steeper trail with views, the Alpine Trail will get your heart rate up quickly. The trail has lots of switchbacks and offers views peeping out from behind the trees. This is a long trail with no end destination, but if you hike at least a couple miles up, you can catch views of the valley below.
Lakeside hangout:
Silver Jack Reservoir is a great spot for lake life. A large sandy beach on the southeast side of the reservoir is the perfect spot to post up. From here, there are beautiful views of the mountain peaks, a wide beach to dig your toes in and shallow water to splash in. Grab chairs, bring a picnic (and a sunshade), and enjoy the afternoon in the sunshine.
The inlet to the reservoir is a good place for kids to splash around in – just stick to the smaller water channels on the sides. Watch out for deep pockets of sand and water in the middle of the channel. Depending on water levels, they have a tendency to act like quicksand. Don’t be alarmed, just aware. It’s easily avoidable as the river inlet is wide with plenty of safe zones.
The angler’s parking lot is the easiest way to access the reservoir.
Boating:
Non-motorized boats are allowed on Silver Jack Reservoir. This includes kayaks, paddleboards, or canoes. There is a small boat ramp located on the east side of the lake.
Fishing:
There is great fishing in the area at both Silver Jack Reservoir and in the Cimarron River. A valid Colorado fishing license is required for anyone over the age of 16.
Where to Camp at Silver Jack Reservoir:
Campgrounds:
There are 60 developed campsites available throughout 3 campgrounds in the Silver Jack Reservoir Recreation Area. Sites can accommodate vehicles up to 45 feet in length. All sites are first come, first served. Facilities are open Memorial Day through Labor Day.
Dispersed camping at Silver Jack Reservoir:
Dispersed camping can be found around the lake in the Uncompahgre National Forest. There are plenty of fire rings off of already established dirt roads in the area, so I haven’t had a problem finding a spot. Campers must pack out all trash and be respectful of the surrounding forest area.
Directions to Silver Jack Reservoir:
South from Cimarron: From Cimarron, head southeast on Hwy 50. Turn right on County Road 859A and continue 18 miles.
East from Ridgway: Owl Pass is a beautiful drive from Ridgway to Silver Jack Reservoir. Just north of Ridgway, head east on County Road 8 for about 16 miles. Veer left onto County Road 861 for another 2 miles until you reach the reservoir.
If you’re in or around Ridgway and want to extend your trip, check out the hike to Blue Lakes or visit the Black Canyon of the Gunnison.
