Clayton Peak Route Guide
Table of contents
Route Description for Clayton Peak
The hike begins on the same side of the road as the small parking lot. Climb the loosely defined trail beginning at the south end of the parking lot. Initially the trial goes nearly straight up the steep slope, but later it begins to switchback. You will crest the ridge after approximately half of the elevation gain. You will be directly below-and to the right of-one of Clayton’s subsidiary peaks.
The trail winds around this summit then descends to the shoulder between it and Clayton. From here your route is clearly visible. As you descend, you will see the top of one of Brighton’s chairlifts, sitting still for the summer months.
At the bottom of the saddle, a trail on your left will lead down to Lackawaxen Lake. Keep straight here to follow along the ridge. The trail will die out as you enter a talus field. Do some mild rock hopping here to find the trail again closer to the summit.
Finally, you will crest the summit ridge to gain the best views of the hike! Looking west you will see the core mountains of the Wasatch, including Sunset Peak along the main massif above Brighton, and Raymond Peak across at the base of the canyon. Those two peaks are other fantastic hikes you’ll find on 10Hikes!
To the east, you will see the foothills of the Wasatch Mountains, and the Uintas in the far distance. To the south, Mount Timpanogos will poke its head out and Box Elder will be visible to its right. There are far too many mountains visible from this perch to name! You will also most likely have this summit to yourself as few people make it this far.
Return the way you came, taking care on the steep and-at times-rocky path.
Insider Hints for Clayton Peak
- This hike is the perfect length to spend some serious time enjoying the summit with a relaxing break.
- We recommend bringing foam sit pads or small chairs to enjoy the fantastic view from the summit in comfort!
Getting to the Clayton Peak Trailhead
From Salt Lake City, take Big Cottonwood Road (UT-190) east for just under 30.6 km. Just before entering the roundabout for the Brighton Ski Hill, you will take a sharp left turn to continue along UT-190. This part of the road is extremely narrow, so take care! Park in the small parking area of Guardsman Pass.Route Information for Clayton Peak
When to do:
July through September
Backcountry Campsites:
None
Toilets:
None
Family friendly:
No
Route Signage:
Poor
Crowd Levels:
Low
Route Type:
Out and back
Clayton Peak Elevation Graph
Weather Forecast
Check Area WeatherReviews for Clayton Peak
There are numerous areas of loose gravel and dust. Views are spectacular - numerous lakes below on both sides of the trail.
- Trip Length
- 02:30
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- Physical Difficulty
Enjoyed the scenery. Definitely good for beginners as there are open spaces.
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The snow-peaked mountains and aspen forest were remarkable!
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Easy way up and down. Fantastic short hike! Highly recommended.
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It's a wonderful trail! The views were spectacular, and would definitely do this again!
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- Physical Difficulty
A pleasant hike! I've always wanted to genuinely connect with nature.
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It was a little boring in the beginning, but the further I go the better views I saw.
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The weather was teriffic. Had a wonderful day hiking. The views were pretty cool.
- Technical Difficulty
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The summit ridge offers the best views. This is pretty challenging, but It's not Mt. Everest either. Just bring plenty of water.
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Beautiful hike that gives amazing view at the top. It was a bit dull in the beginning, and there was a loosely defined trail. But it gets better as you get closer to the top. Love it!
- Technical Difficulty
- Physical Difficulty
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