Silver Lake

After a few more wonderful hours in Tahoe (and more than our fare share of ice cream), we headed south to Silver Lake. The drive there proved both beautiful and frightening. Along with endless switchbacks and cliff sides came breathtaking views. 

View on the Road to Silver Lake

Following several hours of driving and stops at the Manzanar historic site, in Bishop for a kitschy bread shop and at Mono Lake we reached Silver Lake. Nestled among the Sierras, the lake area is quaint and quiet and is known for its fishing. Brian was especially excited to arrive because he has countless childhood memories (RV) camping with his grandparents at the lake. 

Silver Lake

Upon arrival, we were eager to set-up camp and enjoy the next three days quietly on the shores of the lake – but nature had other plans. During our first night we experienced 40 mph wind gusts which left us with little sleep and the fear of our tent flying away. Relieved to wake-up to sunny weather, we were hopeful that the worst was over. Although some wind gusts persisted, Brian was determined to catch a fish and headed out to the lake. While away, Kaila manned camp and began to witness tent flattening wind. As the wind was paying its toll on the tent Brian noticed black storm clouds roll over the mountains and took off running back to camp. Given the imminent storm we quickly started to tear down camp, creating a ridiculous site to see. We moved as fast as possible, dodging pieces of our tent, throwing our belongings haphazardly into the car and laughing all the while. We then sat and waited for the storm to pass; slowly but surely the rain came, the hail came and the 50mph wind came. Given the extreme weather we spent the next 16 hours in the car, passing time by reading, sleeping and trying to learn the game of cribbage. 

Our Tent During a Wind Gust

We were exceedingly happy to wake-up the next day to calm weather and sunny skies. That morning we headed to the lake, Brian hoping to land himself some fish. A few hours later we strolled away with five fish and feeling much accomplished.  The remainder of our time at Silver Lake was spent hiking, eating fish, enjoying the campfire and realizing why Brian’s grandparents owned an RV.

Brian with His Catch

Though our time at Silver Lake was not quite what we expected, we were definitely left with lots of unforgettable experiences. We hope to venture back to the lake, next time with reservations for a cabin. 

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