Camp at Willow Lake
Utah › Big Cottonwood Canyon
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Activities:
Chillin, Camping, Photography, Backpacking, Hiking
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Skill Level:
Beginner
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Season:
Year Round
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Trail Type:
Out-and-Back
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RT Distance:
2 Miles
Beautiful alpine lake with reflection of willow trees. 1 mile hike. Great photo location. Moose. Yellow leaves in the fall, wildflowers in the summer.
The trailhead to Willow Lake is about 11 miles up Big Cottonwood Canyon and is on the north side of the road right after the passing lane begins. It can be easy to miss, and is only marked with a plaque on a rock (40.630302, -111.604639). As you hike a little in from the road you will see the trailhead. This hike is just under 1 mile, but is pretty steep. It eventually levels out the closer you get to the lake. Before you reach the lake you will come to a wide open field. Continue on and take the trail on the left.
Moose often hang around this lake, so keep an eye out. The colors in the fall are amazing, but the lake is fuller in the spring and summer. Wildflowers are also abundant in the summer months. Camping is allowed as long as you are 200 feet from the lake. Swimming is not allowed.
Pack List
- Backpacking gear
- Water and food
- Camera
Pretty steep hike, but it's definitely doable because of the short length. The lake was gorgeous and the summer wildflowers were all over the trail!
over 1 year ago
This is a fun place to visit in the fall. The hike is all uphill to the lake so its also a great workout but short enough that families can enjoy it as well.
over 1 year ago
5/5 for the hike, 3/5 for the "lake," averaging a 4/5 total. this is a little pond thing. not a lake. a pretty pond thing, but not a lake.
over 1 year ago
Beautiful scenery! During the summer of 2014 a family of moose lived in the area around Willow Lake. Be careful on your approach during dusk and dawn in order to not startle these gorgeous creatures! I saw them every time I was up there! What an amazing sight!
over 2 years ago
I am a photographer based in Salt Lake City, Utah. I shoot landscapes, and adventure lifestyle, as well as documentary style stories through both stills and motion. Find me on social media @lindsaydanielsphotography.
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