Jewel Lake via the Ruth Lake Trail

Route Description for Jewel Lake via the Ruth Lake Trail

The hike to Jewel Lake is a fantastic route in the Western Uinta Mountains. This trail is well marked and well maintained up until Ruth Lake. Past Ruth Lake, the path becomes unclear, and some route finding is required. If you are not experienced in route finding, we recommend bringing along a map or downloading a map on your device before hitting the trails. The hike to Jewel Lake via Ruth Lake is not a long route, but it does have some rocky sections, so proper hiking footwear is necessary.

As you wind your way along the trail to Jewel Lake, you will be greeted by incredible mountain views at every twist and turn. On a calm day, the crystal clear water of Jewel Lake reflects the surrounding forest with a perfect, mirrored image of the sublime shoreline. Jewel Lake is truly a hidden gem in the Uinta Wasatch Forest, with sparkling water reflecting the blue Utah sky.

To hike to Jewel Lake, begin at the Ruth Lake parking area on the west side of Highway 150. From the parking lot, follow the trail west as it winds along Hayden Fork to a divide. Stay right at the divide to make your way to Ruth Lake. Follow the path along the north shore of Ruth Lake. Just west of Ruth Lake, look for the rugged trail that branches off to your right. Follow this trail northwest for0.6 km to Jewel Lake.

Take a rest at Jewel Lake and immerse yourself in the beauty of the surrounding forest before turning around and retracing your steps back to the parking lot where you began.

If you find yourself enamored by the beauty of this area, bring along your tent and spend the night camping at Ruth or Jewel Lake under a blanket of stars.

Insider Hints for Jewel Lake via the Ruth Lake Trail

• If you are hiking in the summer, don’t forget to bring bug spray and sunscreen.
• In the summer, this trail features beautiful wildflowers.
• If you are camping at Ruth Lake or Jewel Lake, tents must be set up at least 61 m away from the water’s edge.