Directions:

From Montrose, CO drive east on U.S. Highway 50 to County Road 858 (Forest Access/Silver Jack Reservoir sign). Turn south on County Road 858 and travel approximately 19 miles south. The campground turn off is first, but if you are not camping, continue down the road and turn right at the Silver Jack Overlook sign. At the end of the road is a bathroom and the trailhead.

Hike Description:

Silver Jack Reservoir nested in the Cimarron Mountains of the San Juan Range is a must see Colorado spot that I can’t believe more people don’t know about.  The Reservoir is surrounded by craggy peaks, most notably Turret Ridge to the south.  The campground is wonderful and, since it’s first come first serve, you actually have a chance of getting a spot on a summer weekend.  Get there mid-day Friday for a good shot, but don’t blame me if it’s all full.  

There is a short trail to an overlook that you can pick up from the day use area, or from the campgrounds.  A short walk through aspens take you an incredible overlook of the reservoir and the peaks looming behind.  This is a stellar overlook and if you just have time to check out the overlook, it would be a worthy few minutes.  

Past the overlook, around the large boulder, are two trails, you want the trail that shoots down, steeply towards the reservoir, rather that the more obvious trail that heads south.  This trail is steep with loose rock, so watch your step.  It’s steep but not long and at the bottom is a sign denoting this trail as “Asthma Hill.”  At the bottom of Asthma Hill is a dirt road, turn right.

The road leads down to the dam along the northern shore of the reservoir.  From here, you get amazing views of Turret Ridge, Chimney Rock & Courthouse Mountain, Sheep Mountain, and Pinnacle Ridge.  All amazing geologic eye candy.