Silver Run Plateau Trail via Timberline

Silver Run Plateau Trail via Timberline is an 11.8-mile out-and-back from Timberline Trailhead to the plateau high point. Follow Timberline Trail #12 for about 2.8 miles, turn left onto Bear Track Trail #8, then continue to roughly 10,600 feet. Return the same way. The route gains about 3,000 feet and makes a full day at high elevation. This western approach is distinct from the direct Trail #64 access that starts from Forest Road 2476.

The first stretch climbs the south side of the West Fork valley on moderate to moderately steep grades. Two long switchbacks cross the area burned in the 2008 Cascade Fire, where young evergreens and fireweed grow among standing snags. Around 1.2 miles the grade eases as the trail curves into Timberline Creek Valley. Peaks and the plateau appear in openings between the snags. At about 2.8 miles, take Bear Track #8; Timberline #12 continues toward Gertrude and Timberline Lakes.

Bear Track climbs through spruce-fir forest and crosses the Silver Run Lakes outlet stream around mile 3.5. During early-season runoff, this crossing can require a wade. The route enters the Absaroka-Beartooth Wilderness near mile 3.6, then bends through trees and meadows beneath the plateau's rocky slopes. Views open west across marshy meadows to Silver Run Lakes and the cirque cliffs. Around mile 4.5, steeper switchbacks climb the rocky slope, with broader views back over the basin and the fire-scarred valley.

The grade eases around mile 5.3 as the trail reaches open alpine tundra. Tread becomes faint across the plateau; large cairns mark the way to the high point near mile 5.7. On a clear day the open ground looks toward Silver Run Peak and the high Beartooth summits. This is the turnaround for the 11.8-mile hike. The plateau has no cover or water, and storms, fog, or sudden weather changes make the exposed crossing a poor place to linger.

From US 212, turn onto West Fork Road, stay left at the fork, and continue about 8.3 miles to the Timberline trailhead on the left. It has ample parking, limited room for horse trailers, and a vault toilet. Budget about eight hours for the distance, climbing, and stops; the open high point and stream crossing make weather timing part of the plan. Carry certified bear spray where you can reach it quickly, and keep pets under control. Bear Track continues beyond the plateau to a different highway trailhead; completing that point-to-point route requires a shuttle.