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Details

Distance

4.3 miles

Route Type

Out-and-Back

Description

Added by Laura Boyer

Located in the middle of the Uintas, this out-in-back trail offers amazing scenery, quick access to lakes, and rock climbing for all skill levels.

Cliff Lake can be located from the Crystal Lake Trailhead. The exact location is pinned, but you get there driving from Kamas. From Kamas take the Mirror Lake Highway and take the exit for Trial Lake Campground, the turn north to the Crystal Lakes Trailhead. There is a parking lot with bathrooms at the bottom of the trail. 

To get to Cliff lake, just follow the trail up for a few miles. You'll pass a few lakes and walk through the quiet forest of the Uintas. You can camp pretty much anywhere, just be sure to look at the regulations for camping locations and fire. If you want to rock climb, there are a few trad and sport climb routes located right next Cliff Lake. You can either lead climb or set up a top-rope, depending on your interests and skills. 

The scenery is really beautiful, so be sure to take time to walk around the lake and take in the beauty of the trees and water. There is also a loop trail that will take you around a bunch of the surrounding lakes. That is also worth the time to walk around. 

The best time to go to Cliff Lake is between June and October. If you go outside of that time, there will probably be a lot of snow, so be sure to plan accordingly. Finally, always be prepared for quick thunderstorms while in the Uintas! 

I hope you have a wonderful time! 

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Features

Rock Climbing
Camping
Fishing
Photography
Backpacking
Hiking
Forest
Groups
Lake
Scenic
Wildflowers
Wildlife

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Leave No Trace

Always practice Leave No Trace ethics on your adventures and follow local regulations. Please explore responsibly!

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