Joan Lake, Gem Lake, and Echo Lake Trail

Route Description for Joan Lake, Gem Lake, and Echo Lake Trail

The Joan Lake, Gem Lake, and Echo Lake Trail is a gorgeous hike east of Park City, Utah. Access to this trail does require a vehicle with good clearance and four-wheel drive. The trail itself follows an old service road up to Echo Lake and is used by hikers, OHV/ATV drivers and mountain bikers. When hiking, be sure to remain aware of your surroundings and allow folks with wheels to pass you by. With little traffic annually, the Joan Lake, Gem Lake, and Echo Lake Trail is a sanctuary away from the hustle and bustle of city life. We recommend bringing a picnic lunch and a fishing rod so you can spend some quality time enjoying the beauty of these pristine alpine lakes.

From the parking pull-off, hike up Murdoch Basin Road heading east. Approximately 0.6 miles in, the trail will divide; stay right at this divide to follow the trail as it curves north. At the next divide, stay left and stay left again at the subsequent divide to follow the Forest Road up to Echo Lake. Stay to your right along Forest Road to make your way to the shores of Echo Lake.

Take a rest at Echo Lake and spend some time exploring Joan Lake and Gem Lake to the west before turning around and retracing your steps back to the car.