Desolation Lake

The Desolation Lake via Mill D North Fork Trail offers a classic Utah alpine experience, leading you through varied terrain to a stunning high-mountain lake. You'll start in a forested drainage, following a creek through aspen and fir groves, before the landscape opens up to vibrant mountain meadows. The trail culminates at Desolation Lake, a beautiful blue-green gem set in a distinctive reddish bowl, providing picturesque views of surrounding peaks like Kessler Peak.

This moderate 5.1-mile (8.2 km) hike involves a significant 2028 feet (618 metres) of elevation gain, typically taking around 2 hours and 44 minutes. The ascent is a long, gradual incline, making it accessible to many hikers, though it's a consistent workout. The trail is popular, so plan to arrive early at the Mill D North Fork Trailhead for parking, especially during peak season. Remember, it's within a watershed, meaning no pets and no swimming in the lake.

Beyond the beautiful destination, the trail is notable for its potential to connect with the Wasatch Crest Trail for a longer loop, offering even more scenic vistas. Keep an eye out for wildlife, as moose and deer are often spotted along the route. This trail provides a true sense of wilderness despite its convenient proximity to Salt Lake City and Park City, making it a rewarding day out for those seeking a challenging yet achievable alpine adventure.

The Desolation Lake and Dog Lake Loop offers a fantastic journey through the Mill Creek Wilderness, leading you past two beautiful alpine lakes. You'll traverse well-maintained dirt and rock paths, winding through fragrant aspen and pine forests, with the scenery shifting from dense woodland to open canyon views as you climb. Desolation Lake, in particular, is a stunning highlight, making the sustained effort well worth it for the visual payoff.

This difficult 10.3-mile (16.6 km) hike involves a significant 2234 feet (681 metres) of elevation gain and typically takes around 5 hours and 35 minutes to complete. Parking at the Big Water Trailhead can be competitive, so plan to arrive early, especially on weekends. Remember, due to watershed regulations in Big Cottonwood Canyon, dogs are not allowed on this trail.

What makes this route stand out is the opportunity to visit two distinct alpine lakes within a single loop, connected by a dedicated trail. It's a popular multi-use trail, shared by hikers and mountain bikers, so stay aware of your surroundings. The combination of forested paths, panoramic canyon views, and the serene lakes makes it a visually appealing and rewarding experience for those ready for a challenging day.

Embark on the Desolation Lake and Dog Lake Loop, a moderate hiking route that guides you through the stunning Uinta-Wasatch-Cache National Forest. This 8.1-mile (13.1 km) journey involves a significant elevation gain of 1948 feet (594 metres), typically taking around 4 hours and 42 minutes to complete. You will discover two beautiful alpine lakes, with Desolation Lake offering particularly scenic views as you traverse forested areas and high mountain meadows.

To make the most of your visit, plan to arrive early, especially on weekends, as the Mill D North Fork Trailhead parking can fill up quickly. This helps you avoid crowds and secure a spot. Remember to check local regulations regarding dogs, as specific rules apply in the watershed sections of the wilderness area. The trail is accessible and enjoyable across all seasons, with winter hiking possible if you bring appropriate gear like snowshoes or microspikes.

This loop is renowned for its diverse natural beauty, showcasing abundant wildflowers in summer and vibrant aspen colors in the fall. Keep an eye out for local wildlife, including moose and deer, which are often spotted along the route. The serene reflections on Dog Lake, especially during the quiet morning hours, provide a peaceful contrast to the more dramatic vistas of Desolation Lake, making this a truly memorable mountain experience.