Utah has so many hiking trails, that you’ll be hard-pressed to hike them all in your lifetime. Here’s a hike that’s strenuous and steep, but it’s so beautiful that if you’re up for a challenge, it should definitely be on your list.
Start your adventure by driving up Big Cottonwood Canyon 4.4 miles.
Utahwildflowers/flickr
Park at the Mill B South Trailhead.
Julia A./Yelp
You’ll find the Lake Blanche Trail on the east side of the parking lot. Make sure you have plenty of water with you before starting out. It will take you 2-2.5 hours to reach the lake.
Hank B/Tripadvisor
The hike is a total of 6.9 miles out and back. It’s considered difficult, mainly because of the increase in elevation - a whopping 2,746 feet in just over three miles.
Carly Blasco/Alltrails
The trail takes you through aspens and is shaded for much of your journey.
Shannon Gahan/Alltrails
You’ll pass by a waterfall…
Adam Hansen/Alltrails
…and witness some stunning views of the canyon along the way.
Collin Christensen/Alltrails
In one spot on the trail, loose rocks make the journey a little more difficult, but once you reach this point, you’ll be just a half mile from your destination.
Kawika Heftel/Alltrails
Lake Blanch is absolutely gorgeous. You can see Sundial peak towering over the lake, and the fresh air is scented with pine.
Ethan Doney/Alltrails
For some really incredible photo opportunities, camp overnight at the lake and snaps some pics just as the sun is rising.
OwenXu/flickr Before you head back down, consider taking the side trails to see Lake Lillian and Lake Florence.
Ready for some more hikes? Here are 15 gorgeous hikes you shouldn’t miss. If you want some easier trails, try these 11 easy hikes to add to your bucket list.
Utahwildflowers/flickr
Julia A./Yelp
Hank B/Tripadvisor
Carly Blasco/Alltrails
Shannon Gahan/Alltrails
Adam Hansen/Alltrails
Collin Christensen/Alltrails
Kawika Heftel/Alltrails
Ethan Doney/Alltrails
OwenXu/flickr
Before you head back down, consider taking the side trails to see Lake Lillian and Lake Florence.
What’s your favorite trail in Utah? Tell us in the comments!
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