Wilder and Packard Lake

Name: Wilder and Packard Lake
Rating: 9.7

Packard Lake hike in the Uinta Mountains

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Beginning along the impressive 167.4 km Highline Trail, this hike - only 10.6 km - out to Wilder Lake then down to Packard Lake is a great way to spend a sunny afternoon. This hike is also a great way to get away from the crowds, or to do as an easy backpack.

Route Description for Wilder and Packard Lake

The Highline Trail is an impressive 167.4 km trek that crosses most of the High Uintas Wilderness. You will follow this trail for much of your hike, before taking a detour at approximately the 8.0 km mark.

After beginning the trail near the restrooms, the trail will descend a short ways. Soon you will enter into the official Uintas Wilderness. A sign will outline the rules for camping in the backcountry here.

The entire trail gently undulates up and down, but never has any sustained climbing or descending. After a ways of hiking you will pass the turnoff for Packard Lake, where you will turn right and begin a steep descent.

You will eventually arrive at the impressive and boggy Wilder Lake. Stop here to enjoy the peace and the quiet. You can go back, or you can continue another short ways down to Wyman Lake and Packard Lake if you please.

Whatever path you take, the return will be the same way.

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Insider Hints for Wilder and Packard Lake

Due to the shorter distance, great scenery and mild elevation change, this makes for an incredible and easy backpacking trip.
Watch out for the bugs at the Lakes! The boggy nature of the area allows them to flourish, so be prepared.
A recreation pass is required to park in the National Forest, which can be purchased throughout the park; however, a National Parks Pass is also accepted.

Getting to the Wilder and Packard Lake Trailhead

From Kamas head along Utah 150 for 54.7 km. After passing over Bald Mountain Pass and Pass Lake, look for the Highline Trailhead on your right, directly on the top of Hayden Pass. Park in the ample parking area there.