Silver Springs Lakes (Elko) - Image 1
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Silver Springs Lakes Elko

4.8
·67 reviews·, Canada

A breathtakingly beautiful, secluded lake system renowned for exhilarating cliff jumping and stunning blue-green waters.

Highlights

Must-see attractions

Social content

Social

From TikTok & Reddit

Best Time

Summer mornings

Beat the heat & bugs

CrowdLow
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Silver Springs Lakes (Elko) - Image 1

Silver Springs Lakes Elko

Best Time

Summer mornings

Beat the heat & bugs

CrowdLow

Highlights

Must-see attractions

A breathtakingly beautiful, secluded lake system renowned for exhilarating cliff jumping and stunning blue-green waters. Reddit

4.8
(67 reviews)

"Beautiful spot to enjoy summer heat with colourful waters and all kinds of cliffs to jump off. Reddit"

Vertical photo
TIP

🦟 Bring Strong Bug Spray

Mosquitoes can be fierce on the trail; repellent is a must!

🥾 Sturdy Hiking Shoes

The trail is steep and can be uneven; good footwear is essential.

Third hero image

Highlights

Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

Cliff Jumping Paradise

Cliff Jumping Paradise

Various ledges around the lakes

Leap into the stunning, ice-cold waters from a range of cliff heights, from mellow rocks to daring drops.

Reddit
Breathtakingly Beautiful Water

Breathtakingly Beautiful Water

Main lake area

Admire the clear, blue-green water teeming with tiny fish, set against a gorgeous mountain backdrop.

Reddit
Secluded Mountain Escape

Secluded Mountain Escape

The lakes themselves

Enjoy a quiet, picturesque spot perfect for a summer outing, away from the usual crowds.

Reddit
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Planning Your Visit

Prepare for the Hike & Mosquitoes

A moderate, sometimes unmarked hike leads to Silver Springs Lakes. Be ready for steep sections and bring strong insect repellent, as mosquitoes can be intense on the trail, though they often dissipate at the lake itself. Reddit

Cliff Jumping & Water Safety

Silver Springs Lakes are renowned for cliff jumping with varied heights. Assess your skill level carefully, as some launch points have hazards. The water is stunning but ice cold, so be prepared. Reddit

Best Times

When
Summer mornings
Why
Beat the heat & bugs
Crowd
Low
When
Late afternoon
Why
Golden hour for views
Crowd
Medium

Insider Tips

from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit

reddit.com

Good river spots? maybe cliff jumping?

🦟 Bring Strong Bug Spray

Mosquitoes can be fierce on the trail; repellent is a must! Reddit

🥾 Sturdy Hiking Shoes

The trail is steep and can be uneven; good footwear is essential. Reddit

reddit.com

Calgary Route Hidden Gems?

🧊 Brace for Cold Water

The water is beautiful but very cold, even in summer. Reddit

🛟 Consider an Inflatable

For a more relaxed experience, bring a SUP or float. Reddit

Tips

from all over the internet

🦟 Bring Strong Bug Spray

Mosquitoes can be fierce on the trail; repellent is a must! Reddit

🥾 Sturdy Hiking Shoes

The trail is steep and can be uneven; good footwear is essential. Reddit

🧊 Brace for Cold Water

The water is beautiful but very cold, even in summer. Reddit

🛟 Consider an Inflatable

For a more relaxed experience, bring a SUP or float. Reddit

🗺️ Trail Can Be Tricky

The path isn't always well-marked; pay attention. Reddit

What Travellers Say

4.8
(67 reviews)

Reviews Summary

Silver Springs Lakes is lauded for its stunningly beautiful, clear blue-green water and the exhilarating cliff jumping opportunities. Visitors appreciate the secluded, picturesque mountain setting, making it a worthwhile destination for a summer outing. However, be prepared for a challenging, sometimes unmarked hike and a significant mosquito presence on the trail, though the water itself is often mosquito-free. The water is also notably ice cold. Reddit

"Half hour upward hike, but really beautiful when you get there. No beach, but some stunning views and beautiful water. Cliff jumping if you're daring. Could carry an inflatable SUP if you're a human being."

Candice Martinuk

"Beautiful spot to enjoy summer heat.
The waters are colourful and teeming with little fish.
All kinds of cliffs to jump off.

There's a sketchy launch over branches into water that holds multiple hazards if you're looking for the biggest challenge the lake presents.

There's another right by it that's less intense, but still not for the faint of heart. You have to launch out over shallow rocks and drop about 45 ft.

There are some mellow little rocks for the kids and timid adults right across from the epic drops.

The main stretch has a bunch of varied heights to launch from. You could almost just fall off of all of these and land in safe water. Lots of space for multiple people to jump at once.

Beautiful mountain backdrop to a splendid little spot.

If you're in Fernie or the surrounding area, this is a must.

Take some snacks, a blanket and make an outing of it."

Andrew Riley Mott (Nokkelen)

"The water is a mix of a clear blue-green. It's breathtakingly beautiful and super quiet. The water is ice cold though!"

Linda Gonzalez

What People Like

Beautiful clear water
Cliff jumping thrills
Scenic mountain views

What People Dislike

Intense mosquitoes on trail
Challenging hike
Very cold water

Frequently Asked Questions

🚇 🗺️ Getting There

The journey involves a hike, often described as moderate with some steep and unmarked sections. Be prepared for a bit of an adventure to reach the lakes. Reddit

Reviews suggest the trail can be challenging, with steep uphills and narrow paths. It's not a leisurely stroll, but the destination is rewarding. Reddit

Sturdy hiking shoes are highly recommended due to the uneven terrain. Comfortable clothing suitable for hiking is also advised. Reddit

Some visitors mention the trail isn't always well-marked, so it's helpful to be observant or use a navigation app if available. Reddit

While specific times vary, expect a hike that takes about half an hour upwards to reach the beautiful destination. Reddit

🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry

There are no mentions of entrance fees for Silver Springs Lakes, suggesting it's a natural, publicly accessible area. Reddit

As a natural lake system, there are no official opening or closing hours. Visitors can typically access it during daylight hours. Reddit

No advance booking is required for Silver Springs Lakes as it's a natural attraction. Reddit

While accessible, the best time to visit for swimming and cliff jumping is during the warmer summer months. Winter access might be limited by snow. Reddit

Reviews indicate a lack of facilities like beaches or restrooms, so come prepared with everything you need. Reddit

🎫 🏞️ Onsite Experience

The main draw is cliff jumping, but swimming and enjoying the stunning scenery are also popular. Some visitors bring inflatable SUPs. Reddit

Yes, the water is beautiful and inviting, though it's consistently described as ice cold, even in summer. Reddit

There are various heights for cliff jumping, from mellow rocks to more intense drops. Always assess the water depth and potential hazards before jumping. Reddit

The water is a striking clear blue-green, teeming with small fish, and offers breathtaking beauty. Reddit

While not explicitly mentioned, it's generally advisable to check local regulations for pets in natural areas. Assume leash laws apply. Reddit

📸 📸 Photography

Capture the vibrant blue-green water, the dramatic cliff jumping scenes, and the stunning mountain backdrop for incredible shots. Reddit

Absolutely! The combination of clear water, surrounding mountains, and unique rock formations makes for excellent landscape photography. Reddit

Late afternoon often provides beautiful golden hour light, enhancing the colors of the water and landscape. Reddit

Drone usage regulations can vary. It's best to check local airspace rules and be mindful of other visitors' experiences. Reddit

A wide-angle lens is great for landscapes, while a telephoto can capture action shots of cliff jumpers. A waterproof camera or case is wise near the water. Reddit

For Different Travelers

Tailored advice for your travel style

👨‍👩‍👧 Families with Kids

Silver Springs Lakes can be a fun outing for families, but with caveats. While there are some 'mellow little rocks' suitable for younger children and timid adults to enter the water, the primary draw is cliff jumping, which may not be appropriate for all ages. Reddit The hike to the lakes can be steep and narrow, so consider your children's stamina and comfort level with uneven terrain. Reddit Importantly, the water is ice cold, which might limit extended swimming time for little ones. Bringing snacks, water, and strong insect repellent is essential, especially for the trail portion. Reddit

💰 Budget Travelers

Silver Springs Lakes is an excellent destination for budget-conscious travelers as there are no entrance fees. Reddit The main costs will be transportation to the area and any supplies you bring, such as snacks and water. The hike itself is free, offering a significant natural attraction without the price tag of developed parks. Reddit Just be prepared to pack in and pack out everything you need, as facilities are minimal. Reddit

❤️ Couples & Adventurers

For couples seeking a scenic and adventurous escape, Silver Springs Lakes offers a unique experience. The beautiful, clear waters and stunning mountain backdrop create a romantic setting, perfect for a picnic or simply enjoying the view. Reddit Adventurous couples can embrace the thrill of cliff jumping together, testing their bravery and creating memorable moments. Reddit The hike adds an element of shared challenge, making the arrival at the lakes feel even more rewarding. Reddit

Deep Dives

In-depth insights and expert knowledge

The Thrill of Cliff Jumping

Silver Springs Lakes are a magnet for thrill-seekers due to their numerous cliff jumping opportunities. Visitors can find a variety of launch points, ranging from relatively mellow rocks suitable for beginners to more challenging, higher drops for experienced jumpers. Reddit It's crucial to assess the water depth and any potential underwater hazards before taking the leap, as some spots have been noted to have submerged rocks or shallow areas. Reddit The exhilarating experience of jumping into the bracingly cold, clear water is a highlight for many who visit this unique spot. Reddit

When planning your cliff jumping adventure, remember that safety is paramount. Always jump within your limits and be aware of others around you. The main stretch of the lake offers ample space for multiple people to jump, and the stunning mountain scenery provides a dramatic backdrop for these daring feats. Reddit While the adrenaline rush is a major draw, the sheer beauty of the lakes themselves makes it a worthwhile destination even if you're not jumping. Reddit

Navigating the Trail and Environment

The journey to Silver Springs Lakes is part of the adventure, often described as a moderate hike with some challenging sections. Reviews mention steep inclines and narrow trails, and some visitors note that the path isn't always clearly marked, requiring a bit of navigational awareness. Reddit A significant factor to prepare for is the presence of mosquitoes, particularly on the trail. Many visitors report being heavily bitten, so bringing a potent insect repellent is highly recommended. Reddit However, once you reach the lakes, the mosquito issue often subsides, allowing you to fully enjoy the serene environment. Reddit

Despite the hiking challenges and potential insect encounters, the reward is a breathtakingly beautiful and relatively secluded spot. The water is a stunning clear blue-green, teeming with small fish, and the surrounding mountains offer a picturesque setting. Reddit It's advisable to wear sturdy hiking shoes for the trek and to pack essentials like snacks and water, as there are no facilities available at the lakes. Reddit

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