Hiking In Utah: Lake Blanche Trail
Imagine waking up to the crisp mountain air, surrounded by towering pines and the distant sound of a cascading stream. This could be your reality at the Lake Blanche Trail in Big Cottonwood Canyon, just a short drive from Salt Lake City, Utah. If you’re a traveler looking to experience the great outdoors, this area offers a perfect blend of adventure and relaxation, with a amazing camping and hiking experience.
Hiking Lake Blanche Trail
Start your day with a hike to Lake Blanche, one of the most rewarding trails in the Wasatch Mountains. The trail is a challenging 6.8-mile round trip, with a steady climb that rewards you with stunning views at every turn. As you ascend, you’ll cross wooden bridges over streams, overlook Salt Lake City, and, if you’re lucky, spot plenty of wildlife.
Once you reach Lake Blanche, the sight of the clear, mirror-like water reflecting Sundial Peak is nothing short of breathtaking. It’s the perfect spot to rest, enjoy a picnic, and take in some of the best views in Utah—maybe even spot a moose! If you’re feeling adventurous, you can explore nearby Lake Florence and Lake Lillian, just a short distance away.
Camping in Big Cottonwood Canyon
After your hike, set up camp at one of the many campgrounds in Big Cottonwood Canyon. The Spruces Campground is a great option, located just a few miles from the Lake Blanche trailhead. Nestled among tall spruce trees, this campground offers a peaceful retreat with well-maintained sites, restroom facilities, and even a few trails that you can explore right from your tent.
Camping here allows you to fully immerse yourself in the natural beauty of the canyon, with the option to stargaze by a campfire or wake up early to catch the sunrise over the mountains.
You might even find yourself awakened in the middle of the night by the presence of moose, as they quietly roam the area under the cover of darkness, searching for a late-night snack. Trust me, it happened to me—I went from deep sleep to wide awake in a matter of seconds. Just let them finish their snacking, and eventually, they’ll move on.
Where to Eat
After a day of hiking and exploring, you’ll likely have worked up quite an appetite. Luckily, there are some fantastic dining options nearby:
Silver Fork Lodge & Restaurant: Just down the canyon, this rustic eatery offers hearty mountain meals. Their breakfast is legendary, with fluffy pancakes and perfectly cooked bacon. For dinner, try their bison meatloaf or trout, paired with a local craft beer.
The Tree Room at Sundance: For something more upscale, take a short drive to the Sundance Mountain Resort. The Tree Room offers a dining experience like no other, with a menu that highlights fresh, local ingredients. The cozy, art-filled setting is perfect for a post-hike celebration.
Porcupine Pub & Grille: Closer to Salt Lake City, this casual spot is a favorite among locals and travelers. It’s known for its comfort food and welcoming atmosphere. Their nachos, burgers, and Utah-famous fish tacos are a must-try.
Final Tips
When to Visit: The best times to hike Lake Blanche are from late spring through early fall. I haven’t visited in the winter, but locals mentioned that it can be beautiful yet challenging, requiring snowshoes or crampons.
What to Bring: Make sure to pack plenty of water, snacks, bug spray, and layers such as hoodies, beanies, and thermals, as the weather can change quickly. When I visited in late June, the temperatures dropped into the 40s at night and reached the mid-80s during the day.
Respect Nature: Always practice Leave No Trace principles to keep this beautiful area pristine for future visitors.
Whether you’re an experienced hiker or just looking for a peaceful retreat into nature, the Lake Blanche Trail and surrounding Big Cottonwood Canyon area offer an unforgettable outdoor adventure. Combine your trip with great food and cozy camping, and you’ve got the perfect mountain getaway.
