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📅 Date: Monday, July 13, 2026
⏰ Start Time: 6:30 AM
📍 Meeting Point: Mill D North Fork Trailhead, Big Cottonwood Canyon
🥾 Distance: 8.3 miles | 1,988 ft elevation gain
⚡ Difficulty: Moderate
👥 Group Size: 6 participants
8.3 miles into Big Cottonwood Canyon to a peaceful alpine lake that feels like it's at the end of the world — in the best way.
Desolation Lake is one of those trails that earns its payoff. A steady climb through shaded forest and wildflower meadows, with mountain scenery that opens up the higher you go. We're starting early to beat the heat and have the trail mostly to ourselves. 🌲🏔️
What to Expect
A well-maintained out-and-back with a steady incline and some rocky sections as you climb. Shady forest in the lower half gives way to open meadows filled with wildflowers as you approach the lake. Wildlife is active on this trail — moose and rattlesnakes have both been spotted, so stay aware and give them space. Trail is currently dry and in great shape.
What to Bring
2–3L of water (long mileage, 4–5 hours out)
Bug spray — especially near the lake
Layers for the cool morning start
Snack or lunch for the lake
Hiking boots
Sunscreen
Parking: $10 fee at the trailhead OR free with America the Beautiful Pass or Wasatch-Cache-Uintah Pass. Additional parking across the street. No permit required.
Dogs: No dogs allowed in Big Cottonwood Canyon 🐾❌
📅 Date: Monday, July 13, 2026
⏰ Start Time: 6:30 AM
📍 Meeting Point: Mill D North Fork Trailhead, Big Cottonwood Canyon
🥾 Distance: 8.3 miles | 1,988 ft elevation gain
⚡ Difficulty: Moderate
👥 Group Size: 6 participants
8.3 miles into Big Cottonwood Canyon to a peaceful alpine lake that feels like it's at the end of the world — in the best way.
Desolation Lake is one of those trails that earns its payoff. A steady climb through shaded forest and wildflower meadows, with mountain scenery that opens up the higher you go. We're starting early to beat the heat and have the trail mostly to ourselves. 🌲🏔️
What to Expect
A well-maintained out-and-back with a steady incline and some rocky sections as you climb. Shady forest in the lower half gives way to open meadows filled with wildflowers as you approach the lake. Wildlife is active on this trail — moose and rattlesnakes have both been spotted, so stay aware and give them space. Trail is currently dry and in great shape.
What to Bring
2–3L of water (long mileage, 4–5 hours out)
Bug spray — especially near the lake
Layers for the cool morning start
Snack or lunch for the lake
Hiking boots
Sunscreen
Parking: $10 fee at the trailhead OR free with America the Beautiful Pass or Wasatch-Cache-Uintah Pass. Additional parking across the street. No permit required.
Dogs: No dogs allowed in Big Cottonwood Canyon 🐾❌