Lake Blanche Trail: A Classic Wasatch Mountain Hike
Lake Blanche Trail is one of the best-known hikes in Utah’s Wasatch Mountains. The route climbs through Big Cottonwood Canyon to a high alpine lake framed by rugged cliffs and the distinctive profile of Sundial Peak. It is a demanding hike, but the dramatic mountain scenery makes it a favorite for experienced hikers visiting the Salt Lake City area.
Trail at a Glance
- Location: Big Cottonwood Canyon, near Salt Lake City, Utah
- Distance: About 7 miles round trip
- Elevation gain: Approximately 2,700 feet
- Difficulty: Strenuous
- Destination elevation: Roughly 9,500 feet
Distances and elevation figures can vary slightly by source and route. The high elevation, sustained climb, and rocky terrain make this hike more challenging than its mileage alone might suggest.
What to Expect on the Hike
The trail begins at the Lake Blanche trailhead in Big Cottonwood Canyon and follows a steady uphill route through forest and increasingly open mountain terrain. As you climb, the path becomes rocky and offers broad views of the canyon. Near the top, the trail reaches Lake Blanche, where the surrounding peaks create a striking alpine setting. Lakes Florence and Lillian are also nearby.
The final stretch is steep and uneven, so sturdy footwear and a measured pace are helpful. Allow several hours for the round trip, with extra time for breaks and enjoying the lakes. Conditions can change quickly at this elevation, even when the weather seems pleasant at the trailhead.
Planning Your Visit
Start early, especially on weekends and during the busy summer season. Parking at the trailhead is limited, and popular hiking times can bring heavy crowds. Check current road, weather, and trail conditions before leaving, and bring plenty of water, food, sun protection, and layers. There are no services along the trail.
Snow can linger at higher elevations into summer, while storms and colder temperatures are possible later in the season. If snow or ice is present, the route may require equipment and experience beyond ordinary hiking gear. Turn back if conditions become unsafe.
Protect the Wasatch
Lake Blanche is in Big Cottonwood Canyon, a protected watershed. Dogs are not allowed in the canyon, including on the trail. Follow posted rules, stay on established paths, pack out all trash, and give wildlife plenty of space. Avoid disturbing plants and fragile alpine terrain, and check local guidance before swimming or entering the water.
A Rewarding Mountain Day
Lake Blanche Trail is a strenuous outing, but its combination of forest, mountain views, and a dramatic alpine destination makes it a memorable Wasatch hike. With an early start, careful preparation, and respect for the watershed, hikers can enjoy one of the region’s most spectacular mountain landscapes.
9 Essential Tips for Hiking the Lake Blanche Trail
- Start early; the trailhead parking lot fills quickly.
- Expect a steep, strenuous hike with sustained elevation gain.
- Bring plenty of water and snacks; there are few reliable refill spots.
- Wear sturdy shoes with good traction for rocky sections.
- Check the forecast and turn back if storms approach.
- Pack layers—conditions can change quickly at higher elevations.
- Stay on the trail to protect fragile alpine plants.
- Dogs are not allowed in Big Cottonwood Canyon.
- Pack out all trash and leave the lake area as you found it.
Start early; the trailhead parking lot fills quickly.
Start your hike early to improve your chances of finding a spot at the Lake Blanche trailhead parking lot, which fills quickly, especially on weekends and during the busy summer season. An early start can also give you cooler temperatures and more time to enjoy the trail and lakes before heading back.
Expect a steep, strenuous hike with sustained elevation gain.
Expect a steep, strenuous hike on the Lake Blanche Trail, with a sustained climb that gains roughly 2,700 feet over about 3.5 miles. The uphill grade and rocky footing can make the route feel especially demanding, so pace yourself, take breaks as needed, and bring plenty of water.
Bring plenty of water and snacks; there are few reliable refill spots.
Bring plenty of water and snacks for the Lake Blanche Trail, since the long, steep climb can be demanding and there are few reliable places to refill along the route. Pack enough for the entire hike, including a little extra in case you’re out longer than expected, and choose easy-to-carry snacks that help keep your energy up.
Wear sturdy shoes with good traction for rocky sections.
Wear sturdy hiking shoes or boots with good traction on the Lake Blanche Trail. The route includes rocky, uneven sections—especially as you climb toward the lake—where reliable footing can help you stay comfortable and reduce the risk of slipping.
Check the forecast and turn back if storms approach.
Check the forecast before setting out on Lake Blanche Trail, where mountain weather can change quickly. If dark clouds, thunder, or other signs of a storm appear, turn back rather than continuing toward the lake or exposed terrain. Reaching the destination is never worth risking lightning, heavy rain, or rapidly worsening conditions.
Pack layers—conditions can change quickly at higher elevations.
Pack layers for the Lake Blanche Trail, where temperatures can drop as you gain elevation and mountain weather can change quickly. Even if it feels warm at the trailhead, bring a moisture-wicking base layer, a warm midlayer, and a wind- or rain-resistant outer shell so you can adjust to changing conditions and stay comfortable near the lake.
Stay on the trail to protect fragile alpine plants.
Stay on the marked trail when hiking to Lake Blanche to help protect fragile alpine plants. These plants grow slowly in the harsh mountain environment, and even a few footsteps off the path can damage vegetation and compact the soil. Staying on durable trail surfaces preserves the landscape and helps keep the area healthy for future visitors.
Dogs are not allowed in Big Cottonwood Canyon.
Dogs are not allowed anywhere in Big Cottonwood Canyon, including on the Lake Blanche Trail. The canyon is a protected watershed, so plan to leave your dog at home and check current rules before your visit.
Pack out all trash and leave the lake area as you found it.
Pack out all trash, including food wrappers, tissues, and other small items, so nothing is left behind on the trail or around Lake Blanche. Keep the lake area clean and undisturbed by staying on established paths and leaving natural features where they are. Taking these simple steps helps protect the fragile alpine environment and lets future visitors enjoy it as you did.
