Salt Lake City, Utah – When we visited Salt Lake City (SLC) over July 4th week, temperatures in town were averaging in the 100’s. We spent several days visiting the downtown attractions of SLC, but in order to find some cooler temperatures (low 80’s) we went hiking in the mountains near town. We had planned on completing several day hikes, but our RV inverter Issue kept us in town for two days. We used David Day’s “Salt Lake City’s Incredible Hiking and Biking Trails” to picks hikes. For our one hike, we headed to Brighton Lakes. We had planned to also hike Mount Aire and Pittsburgh Lake Trails.
Spectacular views from the Brighton Lakes Area including Lake Mary from above
Mike crosses a snowy section of trail
The Brighton Lakes Trail starts from the Brighton Ski Resort in the Big Cottonwood Canyon. This moderate 4.6 mile roundtrip out and back starts from the south side of the Brighton Center Lodge. The trailhead is located at 8,760 feet and the trail gains 1,200 feet. It had been a heavier snow year, so there was still snow at the higher elevations. Usually the trail is cleared by the end of June. The trail is very easy to follow and heads quickly uphill from the parking lot. We spotted a marmot near the junction for the Dog Lake Spur trail.
A yellow-bellied marmot spotted along the trail
The trail travels past Lake Mary and Lake Martha before reaching Lake Catherine, the turn around point. The hike could be extended by continuing over Catherine Pass to Albion Basin. Brighton Lakes Trail goes between Mount Tuscarora and Sunset Peak, traveling through forest and up into alpine terrain with spectacular views. It is a fairly popular trail and had plenty of traffic. We really enjoyed this hike.
Lake Mary
More snow and snow melt near the end of the trail
Lake Martha
A rocky section of trail
The trail leads to the dam at Lake Mary
View from another section of trail
During our hike, we watched a helicopter rescuing a hiker from a different nearby trail. We found out later that a male hiker had fallen about 80 feet and suffered a severe leg injury. We were staying at the Salt Lake City KOA during this trip.
A rescue helicopter viewed while hiking
To reach the trailhead from SLC: Head south on I-215 and take the 6200 South exit. After exiting, turn left and travel under the overpass. Continue on 6200 South for about 1.8 miles to Wasatch Boulevard. Travel southeast on Wasatch Boulevard following signs to the Brighton Ski Resort. At Big Cottonwood Canyon Road, turn left and head up the canyon for 15 miles where you will reach a one-way loop. Proceed about 0.7 miles around the loop and you will arrive at a large parking area for the Brighton Center Lodge. The trailhead will be to the south of the lodge.
