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Brighton Lakes Trail


Highlights:

Beautiful hike through woods, awesome views of valleys and mountain lakes
Near:Salt Lake City, UT
Scenery:
Distance:3.83 miles round trip
Elevation Gain:1107 ft
Hike Time:2.5 hours
Difficulty:Moderate
Trail Condition:Well maintained trail
HikeType:Out and Back


Summary: This is a suitable hike for nearly anyone, with only a few steep stretches on the trail,

The trail takes hikers past 3 lakes: Lake Mary, Lake Martha, and Lake Catherine. A fourth, Dog Lake, can be reached by turning off the main trail about 1/4 of the way up the trail and hiking about 500 feet into a small canyon. Signs along the trail direct hikers to these attractions.

The views on this hike are awesome. Cliffside overlooks, beautiful woodland areas, and views from the trail to the canyons below are abundant during the course of the hike.

Lake Catherine last lake on the trail. This lake, surrounded by mountains on nearly all sides, is the most beautiful attraction on this hike. Be sure and plan on spending some time relaxing in this beautiful spot.

ADVISORIES: Take and use insect repellent. Mosquitos are abundant near the bodies of water. Also be aware that no dogs are allowed in Big Cottonwood Canyon.

Trailhead: 
Getting to Big Cottonwood Canyon:

Take I-215 South (freeway will become I-215 East) until you reach the 6200 South exit. Turn right onto Wasatch Boulevard, then turn left at Big Cottonwood Canyon. The intersection is clearly signed. You will see a 7-11 store to your right.

From the north or south ends of the valley, take I-15 to I-215 East and follow the directions above.

Getting to the Trailhead:

Follow the canyon road clear to the top. The road will lead you right into the Brighton Resort and into a huge parking lot. To the left, you will notice a large kiosk with a pitched roof. Park close to the kiosk as this is where the trailhead is. Read posted signs carefully for re-routes or other information about the trail. (Lat:40.5959 Lon:-111.58407)

Trail Guides for Brighton Lakes Trail:
Best Easy Day Hikes - Salt Lake City
by Brian Brinkerhoff (Falcon Publishing)

Best Seasons: Fall, Summer,
User Groups: Hikers,
Ranger Contact: Wasatch-Cache National Forest (801) 466-6411 Tu-Sa 10:30a-7:00p MT
Localhikes Reporter: This hike was submitted by Troy Slater, who has posted  9 other hikes on this site
Trail Reviews  Submit your own review
Reviewed by Bruce on 8/10/2008
Absolutely beautiful hike! With Mt Millicent, Mt Tuscaora, and Mt Pioneer as the backdrop, there are countless photo opportunities. There are moose around Dog Lake so keep yout eyes open!

Reviewed by Jacqueline on 7/24/2008
Beautiful hike. Initial uphill climb in may discourage you, but once you're higher, there's ample shade and the lakes are quite a sight. I was lucky enough to see some moose grazing right by Lake Catherine, too.

Reviewed by Bob on 7/6/2008
It was a grate hike. The first one I've taken in years, and was well worth it. We only went as far as Mary lake but what a view. Well worth it.

Reviewed by Lynn on 7/25/2006
We hiked the Lake Mary hike on 7/24/06. The wildflowers were absolutely magnificent. The 3 lakes, Mary, Martha and especially Catherine are worth the hike. The trail is a little daunting at first but is doable. The new trail is wonderful and the vistas are incredible. It is a must see.

Reviewed by Michelle on 7/5/2006
Hiked at the end of June. Still some snow fields above Lake Mary, but nothing too bad. The wildflowers at Lake Catherine are just about to bloom, so it hsould be even prettier in a week or two. Be sure to bring sunscreen.

Reviewed by JF on 7/27/2005
Very nice hike during the summer with plenty of shade. Watch for mountain goats on the peaks near Lake Catherine! On your way back from Lake Catherine you can take a steep side path/drainage and hit Dog Lake. Bring lots of water.


Notice: Traveling in the backcountry can be hazardous. You are responsible for informing yourself about these hazards and taking necessary precautions. Information on this web site comes from volunteer reporters and may contain errors or omissions. A current guidebook and proper equipment are essential for safe enjoyment of the hikes posted on this site.
Keys: Utah Hiking, Utah Trails, Utah Hikes, Salt Lake County Hiking, Salt Lake County Trails, Salt Lake County Hikes

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