Desolation Lake and Dog Lake Loop

The hike to Desolation Lake and Dog Lake along the Wasatch Crest Trail is a beautiful route for moderately experienced hikers. Dogs are not permitted in watershed sections of the wilderness area, so please pay attention to the park signage and respect the rules. This trail is popular with hikers and mountain bikers and can get very busy on the weekend. Arrive early to snag a spot in the parking lot and beat the crowds. There is a reason for this trail’s popularity: though the hike may be long, there are no overly steep sections or sections with intimidating exposure and the views along this route are absolutely gorgeous. This trail really is a great way to spend the whole day exploring the natural beauty of the Utah landscape!

From the trailhead, follow the path east to hike the loop counterclockwise. Just a few hundred yards in, the trail will divide and you will stay left to follow Mill Creek eastward. Approximately 2.5 miles in, the trail will branch into three paths. Take the path on the right and follow the trail south to Desolation Lake. From Desolation Lake, follow the trail east to a divide and stay right to make your way to Dog Lake. You can loop around Dog lake in either direction before heading north along the main trail, where it will fork one more time. Take a left at this junction to hike the last section back to the trailhead.

If you are looking for more to explore in the area, check out the Gobbler’s Knob via Alexander Basin Trail nearby.