Sunset Peak (5 miles)

Location: Little Cottonwood 

We took the Lake Catherine trail head to Sunset Peak. This is a moderate to difficult hike. It took us three hours to complete the hike. We went with Zahid Bhai, an experienced hiker. He patiently led us despite our frequent breaks.

The Catherine Pass Trailhead takes us above Lake Mary, Lake Martha, and Lake Carherine. We previously hiked to Lake Mary (and Dog Lake). Had we continued on that trail we would have met up with our trail that led to Sunset Peak.

Sunset Peak is one of the most approachable peaks, standing tall at an elevation of about 10,500 feet. 

The beginning of the trail.

A view looking back as we start our ascent.

The well demarcated trail varied between wooded, shaded area and steep sandy terrain. 

Lake Catherine as it peeks out from the woody landscape.

A distant view of the city as we neared the top

We reached our destination and the view was worth it!

The view of Lakes Mary, Martha, and Catherine (the largest and nearest lake) from Sunset Peak

A closer view:

It was great to get back to our hikes after our hiatus. This hike is a bit long for children, but for the moderately conditioned --definitely doable!

Lake Mary (2 miles)

Location: Big Cottonwood Canyon

The Lake Mary Trail is located in the Brighton Ski Resort. 

We took the Big Cottonwood Canyon Road (7000 South Wasatch Blvd.) as our habit has become, and drove up to Brighton. The trailhead is located behind the Mt. Majestic Lodge. Best of all we saw another moose!

The Brighton ski resort sign looking back across the parking lot.

The beginning of the trailhead

The beautiful wildflowers lined our path as we climbed to the lake

The climb up is hugged by a fast flowing stream

We decided to take a short detour to Dog lake

A rocky trail, an off shoot from the Dog Lake trail leads to Lake Mary via a short cut. We climbed to the top of the ridge, but decided to head back down and take the main trail

The stream was emanating from a man made dam, likely the same dam we saw during our hike to twin lakes.

Lake Mary

The hike back

 

The hike directly to Lake Mary is about one mile and suitable for all ages. The trail is well demarcated. Although the initial hike is a bit steep, the climb gets easier as you get closer to the lake. The trail continues to Albion Basin which lies about two miles from Lake Mary.

Lake Blanche (6 miles)

This is the longest hike we undertook and by the infinite mercy of our Lord we completed it to see the chain of Lakes nestled within the mountain peaks. It was challenging due to the distance and stamina required as the trail continuously climed to an elevation of 2,680 feet (about 8,000 feet above sea level). At the end we were happy that we didn't give up despite the difficulty as the feeling of accomplishment outweighed any of the small aches and pains that we accumulated as a result of the climb.

It reminded me of the incomparable ecstasy that a believer must feel after being granted Jannah despite the relatively minimal "aches and pains" of the dunya.

We were encouraged by other hikers, seeing wild goats and our first moose sighting. 

The trail map marking the beginning of the Lake Blanche Trail.

The trail began on a paved road in Big Cottonwood Canyon, from the Mill Creek B south entrance. The paved road quickly turned into a dirt trail. We followed the trail with a beautiful stream as our only other companion.

A miniature waterfall

Enjoying a much deserved break

The captivating views of the mountains was unparalleled as we climbed to the top.

As the sun rises, it illuminates the mountainside.

The earth turned into a deep burnt red hue as we ascended

We spotted a moose that looked right at us!

About 15 min from the lake the trail turned into a rocky bed that we had to scramble around.

The view after the climb across the rocks. The orange marker helped to guide us through.

At the top we crossed a narrow cement and mortar walkway to our destination.

Lake Blanche

Looking up the mountainside from Lake Blanche

A kind elder gentleman advised us to walk a little further to see two additional lakes

The walk back

The steep hike down was not easy by any means. The return to paved earth never felt so great!!

This hike is suitable for the moderate to experienced hiker. The entire hike is too long for children. If you have the stamina and 5 hours it is definitely worthwhile.