Lake Catherine via Brighton Lakes Trail

Route Description for Lake Catherine via Brighton Lakes Trail

The hike to Lake Catherine via the Brighton Lakes Trail is a gorgeous route away from the heat and noise of Salt Lake City. This trail is a consistent uphill climb up to the three lakes, so proper footwear is essential. We recommend bringing along a set of hiking poles to provide some support on the way up and save your knees some strain on the way down. This trail is a great place to see wildlife such as moose, ground squirrels, chipmunks, and deer. If you are lucky enough to spot wildlife along the trail, do not feed them and give them lots of personal space.

This trail, starting at the Brighton Resort, is absolutely beautiful. The lush green forest and pristine azure lakes radiate peace and calm. Although this hike is truly gorgeous all year round, we recommend heading out in July to see the wildflowers in full bloom or in the early fall to see the Uinta-Wasatch-Cache National forest in shades of yellow and gold.

From the trailhead, follow the Brighton Lakes trail south. As you approach Lake Mary, the first and largest lake along this route, the trail will divide three times. Stay right at the first divide and left at the following two. After Lake Mary, continue south past Lake Martha to Lake Catherine. The trail will divide as you approach Lake Catherine; stay straight ahead on the path to the right, then take your second left to follow the trail as it loops around Lake Catherine. Once you find yourself at the end of the loop, simply follow the main trail back down to the trailhead.

If you want to spend more time hiking around the Brighton Lakes area, and are up for a challenge, check out the Mount Wolverine via Brighton Lakes Trail.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can you swim in the Brighton Lakes?

No, swimming is not permitted in Brighton Lakes.

Can you fish in the Brighton Lakes?

Fishing is permitted in Brighton Lakes, however, you must wear waders if you intend to enter the water. The Brighton Lakes are protected watersheds and swimming or wading in the lakes is not permitted.

Insider Hints for Lake Catherine via Brighton Lakes Trail

• This trail gets very snowy, we recommend hiking in the summer months or bringing microspikes and/or snowshoes if you are heading up in the winter/spring/fall.
• This trail can be buggy in the early summer, if you are hiking in late June or early July, don’t forget the bug spray!