So, you’ve made it into the Rocky Mountains! Since Silverthorne is the first somewhat-medium-sized town that you’ll reach if you’re traveling west on I-70, I decided to put some recommendations out there in case some of you decide to stop in this lovely city.
Here is a list of things you can do other than, of course, taking in the jaw-dropping views that you’ll remember for the rest of your life.
Lily Pad Trail
Southwest(ish) of Silverthorne is the Lily Pad Lake Trailhead #50, and the hike is a super relaxed and not-so-strenuous trail leading to a small pond covered in lily pads. It’s about a mile or so to the pond and it’s a really nice hike if you’re looking for something relatively easy to hike but also with great views. There is a short steep uphill section right at the beginning, but that’s about it.
Depending on the time of year, there may be more or less lily pads than pictured below, but this was taken mid-June.
Paddle Boarding on Lake Dillon
Just north of the Dillon Marina is a spot to rent paddle boards, kayaks and other ways to get out on the water, and it’s definitely worth it. The views on the reservoir of the surrounding mountains and hills are incredible, and the paddle boards are not super expensive to rent, in my opinion. I believe we paid about $60 for two hours, and two hours was more than enough time on the water. There’s also a wooden man-made island in the bay where you can have some fun jumping into the water and such. It’s a great time.
I also recommend stopping by the bar next to the marina once you’re done and having a drink on their patio, they have some great piña coladas!
Sapphire Point Lookout
High above the Blue River Arm bay of the Dillon Reservoir is the Sapphire Point Lookout, with some beautiful views of the reservoir and surrounding Rockies. There’s a small parking lot that you can pull into off of Swan Mountain Road, then it’s about a two minute walk to the viewing point. The spot is also overran by human-accustomed squirrels (or chipmunks, idk the difference lol) so they’ll likely approach you in search of something to eat. You don’t want to miss this spot!
Let me know if there are any spots that I missed in the comments below, and don’t forget to subscribe for more travel guides!
I appreciate you all, and I’ll see you next week!
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