Quick Facts:

Location: Uinta Wasatch-Cache National Forest near Salt Lake City

Coordinates: 40.59727080730825, -111.5822878866235

Length: 2.5 Miles

Difficulty: Moderate

Elevation Gain: 800 Feet

Dog Friendly: No

Introduction:

The Lake Mary Trail, located in the Uinta-Wasatch-Cache National Forest near Salt Lake City, Utah, is a beautiful and accessible hike that leads to one of the most picturesque alpine lakes in the Wasatch Range. This trail is perfect for families, beginners, and anyone looking to enjoy a peaceful day in the mountains. With stunning views, serene surroundings, and the opportunity to explore further, Lake Mary is a must-visit destination for nature lovers and outdoor enthusiasts.

How to Get There:

Lake Mary Trail is located in Big Cottonwood Canyon, just a short drive from Salt Lake City. To reach the trailhead, take I-215 to Exit 6 (6200 South/Canyon Exit) and head east on 6200 South, which becomes UT-190 (Big Cottonwood Canyon Road). Continue driving up Big Cottonwood Canyon for about 14 miles until you reach the Brighton Ski Resort. The trailhead for Lake Mary is located at the base of the resort, near the large parking lot. The drive from Salt Lake City takes approximately 30 minutes, making this hike an easy and convenient option for a quick nature getaway.

Parking Information:

Parking for the Lake Mary Trail is available at the Brighton Ski Resort parking lot, which is free and spacious. However, during peak hiking season, especially on weekends, the lot can fill up quickly. Arriving early in the morning is recommended to secure a spot and to enjoy the trail before it gets crowded. The parking lot is well-maintained, and restrooms are available near the trailhead, providing a convenient start to your hike.

Description of the Landscape:

The hike to Lake Mary offers a scenic journey through the stunning landscape of the Wasatch Mountains. The trail begins at the Brighton Ski Resort and initially follows a gentle incline through a forest of aspens and pines. As you ascend, the trail opens up to reveal expansive views of the surrounding peaks and the valley below. In the summer, the forest floor is often carpeted with wildflowers, adding vibrant splashes of color to the greenery.

About halfway up the trail, you’ll pass by several ski lifts and cross a small creek, which adds a soothing soundtrack to your hike. As you continue to climb, the trees begin to thin, and the trail becomes rockier, signaling your approach to Lake Mary. The lake itself is a large, serene body of water surrounded by rugged cliffs and alpine meadows. The clear, reflective surface of the lake provides a perfect spot to rest, take photos, and enjoy the cool mountain air. The area around Lake Mary is ideal for picnicking, exploring, or simply relaxing and taking in the natural beauty of the Wasatch Mountains.

Trail Difficulty and Length:

The Lake Mary Trail is moderately easy, making it suitable for hikers of all skill levels, including families with children. The round trip is approximately 2.5 miles, with an elevation gain of about 800 feet. While the trail is well-marked and generally easy to follow, there are some rocky sections near the lake that require careful footing. Most hikers can complete the round trip in 1.5 to 2 hours, depending on their pace and how long they spend at the lake. For those looking to extend their hike, the trail continues past Lake Mary to Lake Martha and Lake Catherine, offering additional scenic rewards.

Dog-Friendly Information:

Unfortunately, the Lake Mary Trail is not dog-friendly. As with all trails in Big Cottonwood Canyon, dogs are not allowed to protect the watershed that supplies drinking water to the Salt Lake Valley. If you’re looking to hike with your dog, consider exploring nearby Mill Creek Canyon, where dogs are allowed on most trails. Always check local regulations before heading out to ensure a safe and enjoyable experience for everyone.

Local Regulations:

When hiking to Lake Mary, it’s important to follow local regulations to help preserve the natural beauty of the area. Stay on designated trails to minimize your impact on the environment, and avoid disturbing the local wildlife. As with all trails in the Uinta-Wasatch-Cache National Forest, practice “Leave No Trace” principles by carrying out all trash, respecting other hikers, and leaving the landscape as you found it. The trail can be busy, especially during peak times, so be courteous and share the trail with others.

Other Trails Nearby:

If you’re looking to explore more of Big Cottonwood Canyon after visiting Lake Mary, there are several other trails nearby that offer a variety of experiences. The Lake Blanche Trail is a more challenging hike that leads to a stunning alpine lake surrounded by dramatic peaks, offering a rewarding adventure for experienced hikers. The Donut Falls Trail is a shorter, family-friendly hike that takes you to a unique waterfall with water flowing through a hole in the rock. For a longer trek, the Twin Lakes Reservoir Trail offers beautiful views of the surrounding mountains and the option to connect with other trails in the area.

Non-Hiking Attractions Nearby:

In addition to hiking, the area around Big Cottonwood Canyon and Salt Lake City offers a variety of attractions for visitors. Solitude Mountain Resort and Brighton Ski Resort are popular destinations for skiing in the winter and offer mountain biking, and scenic chairlift rides in the summer. The nearby Silver Lake is a family-friendly spot with a boardwalk trail around the lake, perfect for a leisurely stroll. For those interested in history and culture, Temple Square and the Natural History Museum of Utah in Salt Lake City offer fascinating insights into the region’s heritage and natural history.

Best Time to Visit:

The best time to hike to Lake Mary is during the late spring, summer, and early fall when the trail is free of snow and the weather is generally mild. Summer is particularly beautiful, with blooming wildflowers and clear, sunny skies, while fall offers cooler temperatures and the opportunity to see the changing colors of the leaves. Winter hikes are possible but can be challenging due to deep snow and the potential for icy conditions on the trail. Snowshoes or microspikes may be necessary if you plan to hike in the winter.