Difficulty

Hard

Elevation

856 m

Distance

10.9 km

Duration

4.5-6h

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Lake Blanche Trail

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Route description
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The Lake Blanche Trail is a popular hiking route in the Twin Peaks Wilderness Area east of Salt Lake City. This trail is a challenging, steep route for experienced hikers. If you are up for a challenge, this trail is totally worth it. With stunning views and incredible scenery the whole way, the Lake Blanche Trail is one of the best-loved hikes in the area.

Route Description for Lake Blanche Trail

The Lake Blanche Trail is a gorgeous hike east of Salt Lake City. This route is challenging with a steep and consistent climb to the lake at the top. Hikers should arrive with proper footwear and lots of snacks and water to fuel their hike. We strongly recommend bringing along a set of hiking poles to aid in your ascent and save your knees some strain on the way back down. The Lake Blanche Trail is one of the most popular hikes in the area due to its stunning vistas. If you are hiking this trail during the summer, we recommend arriving early to beat the crowds. This trail can also be accessed in the winter though traction devices, snowshoes, or skis are necessary to navigate the snowy and slippery slopes.

There is a very good reason that this hike is one of the most popular routes in the area. The Lake Blanche Trail provides hikers with absolutely breathtaking views no matter what season you hike it in. This trail is also a great spot to see forest wildlife such as moose and deer. If you are lucky enough to catch sight of these critters, do not share your snacks and be sure to give them lots of personal space.

The hike up to Lake Blanche begins at the Mill B South Trailhead. From the trailhead, follow the path on your left to head east along Big Cottonwood Creek for 0.3 km before turning south to follow the trail along the Mill B South Fork. Continue south for 4.7 km to Lake Blanche. Take a loop around Lake Blanche, Lake Lillian, and Lake Florence before heading back to the trailhead following the way you came.

If you are looking for more to explore in the area, check out the Broads Fork Trail nearby.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is swimming permitted in Lake Blanche?

No, swimming is not permitted in Lake Blanche, Utah, as this lake is part of a watershed.

What is the elevation of Lake Blanche?

Lake Blanche sits at an elevation of 2,719 m. The hiking trail from the Mill B south trailhead gains 856 m of elevation to the Lake itself.

Insider Hints for Lake Blanche Trail

This trail is challenging and can take longer than expected. If you are starting late in the day, bring a headlamp or a flashlight in case you finish your hike in the dark.
In autumn, the fall colors along this trail are incredible.
Camping is permitted at Lake Blanche but campfires are not allowed.

Getting to the Lake Blanche Trail Trailhead

The Lake Blanche Trail begins at the Mill B South Trailhead on the south side of highway 190/Big Cottonwood Canyon Road approximately 6.9 km east of Cottonwood Heights, Utah.

Route Information

Backcountry Campground:
Camping at Lake Blanche
When to do:
June to October
Pets allowed:
No
Family friendly:
No
Route Signage:
Average
Crowd Levels:
High
Route Type:
Lollipop