Utah has hiking trails for nature lovers of all abilities, from hard-core peak baggers to moms with strollers. Here’s a hike that’s fairly difficult, but the payoff at the end is a gorgeous lake, and it’s well worth your effort. Check out the White Pine Lake trail:

To reach the White Pine Lake trailhead, drive up Little Cottonwood Canyon 5.5 miles. You'll find the parking area on the south side of the road.
Gage Murphy/Alltrails
The trail is 10.5 miles, out and back. Some people choose to make this a two-day backpacking trip, but you can do the entire thing in one day, especially if you get an early start.
Gage Murphy/Alltrails
The trail has all the natural beauty that you appreciate in Little Cottonwood Canyon, with plenty of trees, a bubbling little creek, and fresh mountain air.
Oleg Yarishikn/Alltrails
The canyon is home to all kinds of wildlife, including plenty of moose, which are commonly found along this trail.
Shaan Hurley/flickr
Parts of this trail are pretty steep, with as much as a 24% grade. The trail is rocky, so make sure to wear some sturdy hiking shoes. You'll gain a total elevation of 2,762 feet on this hike.
Blake Dimick/Alltrails

Related Stories

This Popular Utah Island Is Covered With Millions Of Spiders Every August

This Popular Utah Island Is Covered With Millions Of Spiders Every August

 For A Delightful Adventure, Hike The Scenic Dog Lake Trail In Utah

For A Delightful Adventure, Hike The Scenic Dog Lake Trail In Utah

 For A Pretty Fall Picnic, Take The Short Trail To Bloods Lake In Utah

For A Pretty Fall Picnic, Take The Short Trail To Bloods Lake In Utah
During summer months, the brilliant wildflowers along the trail and in the meadows will take your mind off the fact that your calves are burning.
Angela Olsen Nichols/Alltrails
The views might distract you, too. Take a little breather and get some photos.
G K/Alltrails
The trail cuts across a beautiful meadow...
Jeremiah Rodgers/Alltrails
...and you'll soon reach White Pine Lake. This little alpine lake is a gorgeous spot to take a break, or camp overnight. Make sure to pitch your tent at least 200 feet from the lake's shores.
Odessa Tinius/Alltrails
If you take this trail, make sure to practice Leave No Trace Principles so that those who hike the trail after you can enjoy the same natural beauty.
Gage Murphy/Alltrails
Little Cottonwood Canyon is a watershed area, and dogs are not allowed on this trail, so leave your pup at home for this one.

Have you hiked to White Pine Lake in Little Cottonwood Canyon? We’d love to hear about your adventure!

If you’d rather take an easy trail to a beautiful lake, here’s one you might enjoy that’s also located in Little Cottonwood Canyon.

OnlyInYourState may earn compensation through affiliate links in this article. As an Amazon Associate, we earn from qualifying purchases.

Related Articles

Explore Utah