Silver Mine Lake, Fairfield, Connecticut

Silver Mine Lake is a charming hidden gem tucked away in the beautiful Connecticut countryside. It offers visitors a peaceful retreat from busy life with its crystal-clear waters surrounded by lush greenery. At Silver Mine Lake, you’ll find excellent fishing opportunities, with largemouth bass, chain pickerel, and yellow perch being the most popular catches for anglers.

The lake is part of a larger natural area that features well-marked hiking trails winding through scenic woods and offering stunning lake views. You can enjoy picnicking by the shoreline, explore the surrounding forest paths, or simply relax while taking in the tranquil atmosphere. The area is accessible year-round, though spring and fall showcase particularly breathtaking scenery when the surrounding trees display their seasonal colors.

Connecticut 2025 Deals!
Get a discount of 15% to 70% on accommodation in Connecticut! Look for deals here:
Connecticut Hotels, Apartments, B&Bs

Silver Mine Lake

Silver Mine Lake is a beautiful natural gem located in Woodbury, NY. You’ll find stunning views and peaceful surroundings that make it a perfect escape from busy life. The crystal-clear waters reflect the surrounding trees and sky, creating picture-perfect scenes in every season.

Visitors love this hidden treasure for its tranquil atmosphere. You can enjoy activities like fishing, kayaking, or simply relaxing by the shore. The lake’s clean environment attracts nature lovers and photographers looking to capture its beauty.

Wildlife enthusiasts will appreciate the diverse ecosystem around Silver Mine Lake. You might spot various bird species, turtles, and fish during your visit. The natural setting provides a wonderful opportunity to connect with nature and observe animals in their habitat.

The hiking trails surrounding the lake offer additional adventures. You can take a leisurely stroll along the shoreline or challenge yourself with more rugged paths through the woodlands. Each trail provides unique perspectives of this charming lake.

Rating: 4.8 (60 reviews)
Location: Woodbury, NY

History of Silver Mine Lake

Silver Mine Lake in Connecticut has a rich past that blends local folklore with early American history. The area around the lake was home to early settlers and has colorful stories about mining activities that gave the lake its current name.

Early Settlements

The Silvermine area was likely settled by the late 1600s. Notable Norwalk families such as Buttery and Comstock were among the first Europeans to establish homes in the region.

Before colonization, the lake was originally called “Menomine,” which means “wild rice” in the local Native American language. This name reflects the natural resources that attracted the first inhabitants to its shores.

The lake remained known as Menomine for centuries until 1951, when it was officially renamed Silver Mine Lake. This change connected the body of water to the surrounding community that had already adopted the “Silvermine” name.

Mining Era

The name “Silvermine” comes from local legends about silver mines in the area. Despite many stories, no silver has ever actually been found here! These tales date back to colonial times when Connecticut had active mining operations.

Early Puritan settlers in New England were more interested in useful metals like copper, iron, and lead than precious metals. However, stories of Spanish silver mines persisted throughout the Hudson Valley region.

The mining legends became so embedded in local culture that they eventually gave the entire area its name. Today, you can explore remnants of old mining activities near Silver Mine Lake in what is now part of Harriman State Park.

The mystery of these supposed mines continues to intrigue visitors, making the lake not just a beautiful natural spot but also a place of historical curiosity.

Recreational Activities

Silver Mine Lake offers visitors a variety of outdoor activities to enjoy throughout the year. The beautiful natural setting provides perfect opportunities for both relaxation and adventure.

Fishing Opportunities

Silver Mine Lake is a hidden gem for fishing enthusiasts in Connecticut. The lake is regularly stocked with various fish species, making it an excellent spot for both novice and experienced anglers.

You’ll need a valid New York State fishing license before casting your line here. The requirement helps maintain the lake’s ecosystem and fish population for future visitors.

The lake is most popular for:

Bass fishing
Trout fishing (seasonal)
Shore fishing along accessible banks

Early mornings and evenings typically offer the best fishing conditions. The peaceful atmosphere makes it a perfect escape from busy city life, even if you don’t catch anything!

Hiking Trails

You’ll find approximately 200 miles of hiking trails throughout the Harriman State Park area, with several beautiful paths surrounding Silver Mine Lake. These trails offer something for every skill level.

The most popular hiking options include:

Silver Mine Loop – A moderate 9.1-mile trail that takes about 3.5 hours to complete
Lakeside Trail – Easy path with stunning water views
Forest Connection Trails – Connect to the larger park trail system

Wear sturdy footwear and bring plenty of water, especially during summer months. The trails feature diverse terrain with scenic overlooks that provide perfect photo opportunities of the lake and surrounding landscape.

Trail markers are well-maintained, making navigation straightforward even for first-time visitors. Spring and fall offer the most comfortable hiking temperatures and spectacular seasonal colors.