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Hike Lakes Mary, Martha and Catherine (Brighton Lakes)

Brighton, Utah

4.6/5
based on 17 reviews

Details

Distance

4.41 miles

Elevation Gain

1253 ft

Route Type

Out-and-Back

Description

Added by Rebecca Stubbs

Hike to 3 lakes on this 3.5 mile hike in the Uinta-Wasatch-Cache National Forest. This hike is relatively easy as it does not include summiting the peaks.

This trail is a local favorite because you can make it as hard or as easy as you want it to be! You can stop at the first lake which is only 1 mile from the parkinglot, or you can go to the top of one or more of the 5 peaks that are surrounding the lakes for an added challenge. It is 3.5 miles round trip just to reach all 3 of the lakes without ascending any of the peaks. The elevation gain is only about 1200 feet.

The trailhead begins at the top of Big Cottonwood Canyon from the east end of the Brighton ski resort parking lot. You will see a trail marker pointing you towards the dirt trail. About 1/2 mile into the hike there is a short turnoff from the main trail to a neighboring lake called Dog Lake. It is a small 1/4 mile detour if you so desire to add another scenic lake to your hiking list.

The first lake that you reach is my personal favorite. It is called Lake Mary (it is actually a reservoir). It is the largest of the 3, and has beautiful granite rock formations around it. This is the destination where many people, especially those with children stop and have a picnic to enjoy the beauty.

Shortly after Lake Mary, you will run into the small Lake Martha. Then you need to gain some more elevation, and head into Catherine Pass before you will see Catherine Lake. It is surrounded by peaks and some great photos can be taken at any time of day. Like I said, there are many peaks to ascend from this point, but if this is your destination, then head back the way that you came for a nice 3.5 mile hike in the beautiful Brighton area.

This trail is in the middle of Brighton Ski Resort, so trails cannot be accessed except for by skiing at the resort. Snow can often linger on the trails until late June. Wildflowers are abundant here in the late summer.

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Features

Photography
Hiking
Bathrooms
Easy Parking
Family Friendly
Forest
Groups
Lake
Picnic Area
River
Scenic
Wildflowers

Hike Lakes Mary, Martha and Catherine (Brighton Lakes) Reviews

pretty easy hike, I even saw a family with kids up there. the first part is a little steep, but after that it's not steep at all. beautiful views. just fyi: no swimming allowed!

I went up in June when there was still some snow up higher. Throw a clear bubble and a fly on and you will catch quite a few trout.

I love this hike! Most of my time spent in this area is skiing so it's awesome to check it out on a hot summer day.

Leave No Trace

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

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