Utah has hundreds of hiking trails that are perfect when you want to get out in nature for an afternoon. This hiking trail offers much more adventure! Most people backpack in on this trail, spending the night under the stars along the way.
White Pine Lake Trail is 9.9 miles of pure beauty. You'll find the trailhead about five miles up Little Cottonwood Canyon.
This hike is generally rated as difficult. The elevation gain is 2,782 feet, and some sections of the trail are quite steep.
The trail is well worth the effort, though. Little Cottonwood Canyon is one of the most beautiful places in Utah. The scenery along this hike is unparalleled.
Groves of aspens sway gently in the breeze.
You'll follow a babbling brook for much of the way.
You'll see plenty of wildlife. Check out this adorable marmoset!
Watch for mule deer - they're plentiful here.
You're likely to see a moose or two as well.
This trail also has plenty of wildflowers, especially in the late summer months.
About halfway up, you'll cross a huge meadow that provides some spectacular views of Red and White Baldy.
As you get closer to the lake, you'll hit peak elevation, and the aspens and pines give way to boulder fields.
The last half mile of the hike is very strenuous - you'll traverse a steep boulder field.
As you descend into the basin, you'll be greeted with a sweet reward - the azure blue waters of White Pine Lake.
You'll find several campsites around the lake.
This hike takes most people around five hours to complete - it's well worth it to spend the night at the lake before descending back down the trail.
This hike is strenuous, so it isn't for everyone. Make sure your fitness level is up for the task. Also, bring plenty of drinking water, food and layer your clothing - it gets really cold up here at night, even in mid-July.
Have you ever hiked White Pine Lake Trail? Tell us about it!
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