Lofty Lakes Loop hike
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Lofty Lakes Loop hike
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A classic loop hike in the High Uintas, the Lofty Lakes Loops passes by several alpine lakes and yields fantastic views of Mount Marsell. The walk isn’t too challenging, and it yields fantastic views.
Getting there
From Kamas, drive along Utah 150 for 32.0mi. Turn left, following signs to Pass Lake Trailhead. After Pass Lake there will be a little Hiker icon on a sign. Turn in and find parking at the Trailhead/Butterfly Campground.
About
| When to do | Late Spring through Fall |
| Backcountry Campsites | Dispersed camping in National Forest |
| Toilets | Yes, at trailhead |
| Family friendly | Yes |
| Route Signage | Average |
| Crowd Levels | Moderate |
| Route Type | Circuit |
Lofty Lakes Loop
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Route Description for Lofty Lakes Loop
You can complete this loop in either direction, both clockwise and counter – clockwise offer very similar experiences. This trail guide will describe going counter-clockwise. From the trailhead, head out to the right following signs for Scout and Lofty Lakes.
From the onset, the trail will begin to climb earnestly before passing a small tarn. You’ll reach Scout Lake in around 0.5mi. Here the trail will plateau as you pass around the lake’s west side. Like most of the lakes in the area, Scout Lake is popular with anglers. There are many campsites on Scout’s southern and eastern flanks as well.
The trail will continue climbing north. The trail will start to veer to the west, and you will reach a trail junction where you’ll head left to continue towards Lofty Lake. You’ll gain a small pass, and then you will descend down to Lofty Lake. This is probably the most scenic view of the hike. You will be able to see down to Lofty Lake with Mount Marsell in the background.
After going around Lofty Lake, you will continue heading northwest before switchbacking down, heading south – directly underneath Mount Marsell. You will pass by Kamas Lake on your way down. The trail here is quite steep and rocky, so take care!
You will pass by two small ponds on your way down before the trail starts to veer to the left (east) again. Soon you will pass by a clearing with views of Reids Peak with Notch Mountain in the distance. The loop will finally close as you arrive back to the parking lot.
Find more great hikes in the Uinta Mountains:
Insider Hints
If you end up completing the hike in the dead heat of summer, bring a towel to enjoy a dip in one of the stunning lakes.
A recreation pass is required to park in the National Forest, which can be purchased throughout the park; however, a National Parks Pass is also accepted.
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subterry 5 years ago
Easy trail perfect for amateurs. This hike is packed with simple yet astonishing views.
Meadow M. 5 years ago
The view of the stunning lake is too beautiful. Perfect place for relaxation. The trail has a lot of scenic views.
applepanda 5 years ago
Classic hike that offers a nice view of the lakes and mountains. Awesome trail.
Queenie 5 years ago
Some of the section was steep. There were also campsites in the area. Overall, it's a nice hike for me.
Flying Dutch 6 years ago
Lofty lakes is a really cool trail and you get to swim on a hot day if you want to!
mountaincat 6 years ago
Loved it