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.

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Park at the Mill B South Trailhead.

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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.

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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.

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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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