Jupiter Peak and Shadow Lake Loop

The Jupiter Peak and Shadow Lake Loop is a beautiful, moderately-challenging hike in the Uinta-Wasatch-Cache National Forest. This trail has some fairly steep sections, so proper hiking footwear is essential and hiking poles are recommended. The Jupiter Peak and Shadow Lake Loop is a great place to go and enjoy the incredible wildflowers of the Utah forest away from the crowds that tend to congregate on the trails closer to Brighton. Head out on this hike in mid-July to see the wildflowers in full bloom.

From the trailhead on the north side of Guardsman Pass Road, follow the path northwest a few hundred yards to a divide. This divide marks the beginning and end of the loop, so take a right to follow the trail counterclockwise. The path will divide in about 0.3mi later, so take the right-hand path up and over Guardsman peak, then continue east to Jupiter Peak. After an out-and-back to the top of Jupiter Peak, continue northeast along the main trail. Just past the intersection with a bike trail, take a sharp left to head southwest to Shadow Lake. From Shadow Lake, follow the path northwest to a split and take a left here to make your way back south to the trailhead.

If you want a slightly longer version of this trail, this hike can also be done starting at the Bloods Lake Trailhead on the north side of Guardsman Pass Road, east of the Guardsman Pass Overlook.