The Potholes, Silver Lake CA

• 5-star hike
• 1 mile trail
• Easy | Gain 100 ft | Peak 7,270 ft
• Kirkwood, CA | Lake Tahoe
.
The image shows a lively outdoor scene with people enjoying a day by a body of water, likely a river or lake. One person is captured mid-jump off a rock into the water, while others are either standing or sitting on the rocks, watching. The background features trees and a clear blue sky, adding to the serene and adventurous atmosphere.

The image shows a lively outdoor scene with people enjoying a day by a body of water, likely a river or lake. One person is captured mid-jump off a rock into the water, while others are either standing or sitting on the rocks, watching. The background features trees and a clear blue sky, adding to the serene and adventurous atmosphere.

Leaping in to one of the larger Potholes.

These potholes are infinitely more fun than a bump in the road, and a great relief on warm summer days. You'll find them on State Route 88 six miles South of Kirkwood ski resort and 40 miles South of South Lake Tahoe. Bereft of any trailhead signs, we only discovered this excellent swimming hole by word of mouth. Probably the best because although this swimming hole might be new to some, it can get busy, particularly at weekends.

Trailhead is located across the road from the Silver Lake day-use area, which is probably the best location to park. There is also informal parking for around six cars immediately next to the trailhead, and potentially more parking towards the Kit Carson Lodge as shown on our map. Take care to obey posted signs and road markings when parking, as the rules here are subject to change at this busy area.

Trail Options Expand KML · Google Earth ·

⬤ 5★ The Potholes 1.4 mi out & back, easy, gain 100ft (peak 7,265ft)
GPX File · AllTrails · Directions GPX?

P Free parking

The well-marked trail begins at the Southwestern corner of the SR-88 bridge, and gently descends to The Potholes through the shade of evergreen forest, alongside the Silver Fork American River which is really no more than a big stream at this point. You’ll know when you arrive at the Potholes, at which point you can scramble around the granite landscape to find the best of the swimming and jumping holes – and even a few short slides to enjoy.

Shade is available closer to the top of The Potholes, but the main areas of the swimming holes don’t offer much protection from the sun. You can also extend this short trail a little further by exploring the rocks and river below The Potholes, including a picturesque little waterfall.

The image shows a natural outdoor scene with a body of water surrounded by large rock formations. Several people are enjoying the day, with some sitting on the rocks, others standing, and a few preparing to swim or just enjoying the sun. Trees are visible in the background, indicating a forested area. The clear blue sky suggests it’s a sunny day.

The image shows a natural outdoor scene with a body of water surrounded by large rock formations. Several people are enjoying the day, with some sitting on the rocks, others standing, and a few preparing to swim or just enjoying the sun. Trees are visible in the background, indicating a forested area. The clear blue sky suggests it’s a sunny day.

Take a cooling dip, or try one of the two short natural slides!

The image shows a scenic view of a lake with a sandy shore in the foreground. The lake is surrounded by dense forest and mountains in the background. The sky is clear and blue, indicating a sunny day. The image captures the natural beauty of the landscape, with the calm water, lush greenery, and rugged mountains creating a picturesque and serene environment.

The image shows a scenic view of a lake with a sandy shore in the foreground. The lake is surrounded by dense forest and mountains in the background. The sky is clear and blue, indicating a sunny day. The image captures the natural beauty of the landscape, with the calm water, lush greenery, and rugged mountains creating a picturesque and serene environment.

Roadside views of Silver Lake. Great for lunch or kayak.

Tangents:
• AllTrails Public: Potholes
• Facebook Group: Comment, Follow Us

Trailspotting Nearby
4★ Round Top (5-10 mi) · 4★ Echo Lakes (6 mi) · 5★ Horsetail Falls (3 mi) · Show Map

California Coastlines
California coastal hikes and beaches to check out.

Best hiking trails and rail trails in California

Best Trails of California
See our favorite hiking trails for each region of California.