Granite Lakes Trail - Big Cottonwood Canyon

Granite Lakes Loop

Big Cottonwood Canyon
Wasatch Mountains
Hiking

The Granite Lakes Trail is one of my favorite Brighton area routes. The trail provides an excellent and fun loop hike. The route is very picturesque, visits several high alpine lakes and has several route options available. The route is easy to hike and suitable for beginners.

Circle of Friends:
The Granite Lakes Loop Hike is part of the "Circle of Friends" program. Members of the "Circle of Friends" have access to more specific information, explicit route information, GPS waypoints, trailhead location and detailed maps. If you would like more information on joining the "Circle of Friends" visit the sign up page.

"Circle of Friends"

Twin Lakes with Honeycomb Cliffs behind.

General Information:
The Granite Lakes Loop is one of the best hikes in the Wasatch Mountains. The route visits three lakes and spur trails allow you to visit three more if you desire. The basic loop is 3 miles around and will require approximately 2 1/2 to 3 hours.

Navigation for this route is moderate. A GPS is useful in identifying waypoints and verifying your location. Good map reading skills are helpful. It should be noted that the USGS maps are not accurate for trails in this area. Numerous trails including the Granite Lakes Loop are not shown correctly. The trails are correctly located on the map provided. This route is suitable for beginners and rated 1 II using the Yosemite Decimal System.

Big Cottonwood Canyon is within Salt Lake City Watershed, therefore special restrictions apply and are strictly enforced. No domestic animals (dogs, cats, horses) are permitted in Big Cottonwood Canyon.

Zak and Stormy hiking along Granite Lakes Trail.

Trailhead Information:
The trailhead is accessible to all vehicles during the summer months. A vehicle shuttle is not required to complete this route.