Haystack Lake
- Physical DifficultyThis is the average user-submitted rating on the physical difficulty of this route. In general, green is beginner, blue is intermediate, black is advanced/most difficult and double-black is expert-only. It is recommended that users build up to black and double-black routes.
- Technical DifficultyThis is the average user-submitted rating on the technical difficulty of this route. In general, green is beginner, blue is intermediate, black is advanced/most difficult and double-black is expert-only. It is recommended that users build up to black and double-black routes.

The quiet yet beautiful hike out to Haystack Lake quickly leaves the crowds of the Washington Lake area behind. Passing by three lakes en route, this stunning trail is a true gem for those wanting to enjoy the quiet and pristine aspects of the park.
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Route Description for Haystack Lake
Do not begin along the trail at the far end of the parking lot. Instead, go to the southwest edge of the parking area. You’ll find a very small trailhead behind the parked cars. There will be a sign pointing towards Washington and Haystack Lakes.
This trail leads down to the east side of Washington Lake, eventually arriving at the man-made damn at to the southeast edge. Cross the creek bellow the damn, then head back up to the lake. Upon arriving at a clearing, it can be difficult to find the trail again, however simply follow the built up retaining wall on the south side of the lake (to your right), and find the trail again further along.
As you continue around Washington Lake, the number of people you pass will severely plummet. You will finally pass the end of Washington Lake. There is a smaller lake attached to the end, known as Tail Lake.
As you continue hiking, the trail will start to gain some elevation as you pass Shadow Lake. The trail will veer to the left as you climb up and over a very small notch. After descending a short ways, you will come to a junction: turn to the right. You will continue to loop to the right and arrive at Haystack Lake.
From the lake, you will be able to see up to Haystack Mountain, but the quiet ambiance of the lake is even more beautiful. Enjoy the lake before returning the way you came.
Find more great hikes in the Uinta Mountains:
Insider Hints for Haystack Lake
- Camping at Haystack Lake makes for an incredible, beautiful, and easy one-night backpacking trip.
- A recreation pass is required to park in the National Forest, which can be purchase throughout the park; however, a National Parks Pass is also accepted. Campsites.
Getting to the Haystack Lake Trailhead
From Kamas take Utah 150 for 40.9 km before turning left towards the Washington Lake Campground and Crystal Lake Trailhead. Follow signs towards the Crystal Lake Trailhead, where you will find a parking lot. There is overflow parking near the Group Site.
Route Information
Haystack Lake Elevation Graph
Weather Forecast
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Nearby Trails
- Crystal Lake and Watson Lake Trail
- Weir Lake Trail
- Lillian Lake via The Lakes Country Trail
- Shadow Lake via the Crystal Lake Trailhead
- The 20 Lakes Trail
- Marjorie Lake Trail
- Three Divide Lakes Loop
- Cliff Lake via Clyde Lake Trail
- Fire Lake via the Crystal Lake Trailhead
- Wall Lake Trail
- Island Lake Trail
- Island Lake Trail