Review: Silver Lake Lodge in Idaho Springs

If you’re planning a Rocky Mountains escape, the Silver Lake Lodge nestled between Idaho Springs and St. Mary’s Glacier is  calling your name. You have no choice but to disconnect and recharge- but a fair warning first: this property is so beautiful, welcoming and comfortable that you might never want to step foot out of the lodge.

Inside the log cabin you will find rustic and modern décor, unique  art from local artists spread throughout and a cozy fireplace. It’s clear lots of thought went into making the Silver Lake Lodge make you feel instantly at home. And when it comes to the beds, I darn near rented a U-Haul and take it right on home with me. They ring in ultimate comfort with extra thick layers of foam padding, fluffy alternative down comforters and feathery pillows. When you are sleeping on clouds, morning may not come till well after 10 a.m. How’s that for catching up on sleep? Get ready because the biggest challenge of the day is coming: putting your feet on the floor to make it downstairs for breakfast. Follow the smell of Egg Sardou, made with poached eggs, artichoke bottoms, creamed spinach and Hollandaise sauce, all the way to the inviting tables and massive windows overlooking snow sprinkled mountains.

“I know we’ve ‘hooked’ the guest when they come down for breakfast in their pajamas. That’s a compliment!” said Jim, the property’s host. That compliment was paid as I came down the stairs for an incredible breakfast for house tea and great conversation with Jim and other guests.

The hotel also has several eco-friendly design elements that add to the charm. The building itself is made from logs trucked in from Washington. The paint on the walls is organic and low voc throughout the inside. The carpets are made of corn, soy and recycled materials, and many of the bathroom vanities were made with recycled tinder.

Hiking enthusiasts won’t want to miss St. Mary’s Glacier and Glacier Lake. The trail head is about a 10 minute walk from the lodge and the hike itself is a quick but steep 3/4 mile. Each month, the Silver Lake Lodge takes guests on a fun Full Moon Hike, which is one heck of an experience! The hike takes off from the lodge at dusk, and takes off toward the Glacier. At the top you will sip hot chocolate and homemade chocolate chip cookies while the Full Moon rises over the mountains to light up the Rockies.

If you do manage to convince yourself to drive off property for more adventure, Idaho Springs, which was where the Colorado gold rush began in the 1880s, is a 20 minute drive down the mountain. Whether you’re looking for a 30- minute hike or full-day excursion, there is plenty to explore. Discover remnants of the old mining town above the lodge, climb Yankee Hill for stunning mountain views, or follow the stagecoach trail dotted with picturesque lakes.

For thrill-seekers, river rafting, zip lining, horseback riding, hot air ballooning and biking are just a few of the other outdoor activities you’ll find near the Silver Lake Lodge in Idaho Springs.

Jim, the innkeeper, said that many people come to the lodge for the chance to disconnect from technology, reconnect with each other, and find energy and strength. He told me about a couple who recently visited for a quick escape before the husband was to be deployed for 9 to 12 months in Afghanistan, and about grief retreat participants who have suffered the loss of a loved one and visited the lodge on their path to healing.

Set in one of the most beautiful parts of Colorado with unparalleled access to adventure in the Rockies, the Silver Lake Lodge makes a great choice for both family vacations and romantic getaways.  For more information, photos and reservations you can visit their website, thesilverlakelodge.com.