The 2365 foot Silver Lake Mountain is located in the Taylor Pond Complex and is a great family hike that offers views of Silver Lake, McKenzie Mountain, Moose Mountain,Taylor Pond, Catamount Mountain, Whiteface Mountain and the Wilmington Range. This is a popular hiking destination for those camping at Taylor Pond Campground.

 

This 0.9-mile one way hike, goes over moderate to steep terrain with at total ascent of about 900 feet. From the trailhead parking area, the trail follows red trail markers along the remains of an old woods road to an open area at 0.3 mile. The trail is filled with loose rocks. After the open area, the terrain starts to get steeper and you arrive at slight lookout through the trees at 0.5 mile.

 

Just prior to the summit there is a very steep section with lots of rocks. You can avoid the rock on the path near the trees or scramble up them. Along this section is where the views will appear behind you. You will have views for the remaining distance to the summit. Be sure to turn around occasionally to see them or check them out on your return trip.

 

Directions: From the four-corner intersection in the village of Wilmington, head north onto Bonnieview Road. Follow this to its end at Silver Lake Road. Take a left onto Silver Lake Road and continue for just under 6-miles to the trailhead on the right. The GPS coordinates for the parking area are N44 30.662 W73 50.995.

DEC Sign along Silver Lake Road

Silver Lake Mountain Trail starts along this old woods road