The best walks and hikes around Brighton

If you're seeking a challenging yet beautiful day hike in the Wasatch Mountains, the Butler Fork Loop offers a fantastic journey through varied landscapes. You'll wind through lush forests of aspen and pine, then emerge into open meadows that explode with wildflowers during warmer months. The descent provides sweeping panoramic views of peaks like Mount Raymond and Gobblers Knob, making the effort worthwhile.

This moderate route covers 6.9 miles (11.1 km) with a significant 2027 feet (618 metres) of elevation gain, typically requiring about 4 hours and 23 minutes. Be aware that the trail can be steep in sections and may have rocky or muddy patches, especially in the upper reaches. Parking is available at the trailhead, but it's always wise to arrive early during peak season.

Beyond its natural beauty, the area holds historical significance, with remnants of 19th-century mining equipment still visible along the trail. It's also a popular spot for wildlife viewing, with deer, moose, and various bird species frequently sighted. Remember, this trail is within a wilderness area, so strict rules apply, including a "no pets" policy.

The Brighton Lakes Loop takes you on a memorable journey through Utah's stunning alpine landscape, showcasing a series of pristine lakes nestled among dense forests and open slopes. You'll traverse a mix of dirt and rocky terrain, with some steep ascents and descents, especially between Lake Mary and Lake Martha. Expect panoramic views of the Wasatch Mountains, vibrant wildflowers in summer, and the chance to spot local wildlife like deer and moose on this 6.1-mile (9.9 km) moderate hike, which typically takes around 3 hours and 34 minutes to complete with 1781 feet (543 metres) of elevation gain.

Planning your visit to the Brighton Lakes Loop is straightforward, with the trailhead conveniently located near the Brighton Ski Resort Lodge. The best time to hike this route is generally from July to October, when conditions are most favorable. Keep in mind that the lakes are part of a protected watershed, so swimming and bringing dogs are not allowed. This popular trail offers a rewarding experience for those seeking a challenging day hike in a beautiful mountain setting.

Beyond its natural beauty, the Brighton Lakes Loop offers glimpses into the region's history, passing by the Twin Lakes Reservoir, an early 20th-century construction vital for Salt Lake Valley's water supply. The successive discovery of lakes like Catherine, Martha, and Mary provides a unique narrative to your hike, each offering a distinct perspective. This trail is a standout for its combination of diverse scenery, historical context, and abundant wildlife, making it a truly notable experience in the Uinta-Wasatch-Cache National Forest.

The Mill D North - Butler Fork Loop offers a classic Wasatch hiking experience, guiding you through dense forests of aspen and pine that give way to vibrant, wildflower-filled meadows. You'll navigate a singletrack path with roots and rocks, often paralleling a small creek, and be treated to stunning views of the Wasatch peaks, including Mount Olympus Wilderness Area and Solitude Ski Area, as you climb. The trail's diverse terrain and scenic beauty make it a rewarding adventure for those seeking a moderate challenge.

To plan your visit, head to the Mill D North Fork Trailhead or Butler Fork Trailhead, both conveniently located off Big Cottonwood Canyon Road. Be aware that this area is part of the Salt Lake City Watershed, so dogs are not allowed, and swimming is prohibited to maintain water quality. Spring and summer are ideal for experiencing the wildflowers, but the trail also transforms into a popular destination for snowshoeing and cross-country skiing during the winter months.

This loop is notable for its balanced mix of challenging climbs and expansive vistas, offering opportunities to connect with other trails like Dog Lake and Desolation Trail for longer adventures. You might even spot local wildlife such as deer or moose. It's a fantastic way to immerse yourself in the natural beauty of the Uinta-Wasatch-Cache National Forest, providing a true escape into the mountains just a short drive from Salt Lake City.

The Dog Lake via Brighton Lakes Trail offers a moderate 2.1-mile (3.4 km) hike that packs a lot of scenic beauty into its 1 hour and 8 minutes duration. You'll start with a steep climb up a ski slope, gaining 572 feet (174 metres) of elevation, before the path mellows out, winding through mountain meadows, pine forests, and aspen groves. Expect picturesque views and a chance to see abundant wildflowers in summer or vibrant autumn colors in early fall, all leading to the serene Dog Lake.

Planning your visit means remembering a few key rules: this is a protected watershed, so leave your dogs at home, and swimming in Dog Lake is not allowed. The trail can be quite popular, especially on weekends, so an early start is a good idea. If you're hiking in early summer, bring bug spray, as conditions can be buggy.

This route is a fantastic spot for wildlife viewing, with frequent sightings of moose, deer, and marmots. Dog Lake is also part of a larger network, offering connections to other popular spots like Lake Mary, Lake Martha, and Lake Catherine if you're looking to extend your adventure. Just remember, this is the Dog Lake near Brighton Ski Resort, not the other one in Big Cottonwood Canyon.

The Kesler Peak Loop is a demanding yet incredibly rewarding hike, offering a true taste of the Wasatch Range's rugged beauty. You'll navigate a consistently steep ascent through dense pine and aspen forests, eventually breaking out to expansive views of Big Cottonwood Canyon and the Salt Lake Valley. The 4.9-mile (7.8 km) route packs in 2780 feet (847 metres) of elevation gain, making it a difficult trek that typically takes around 4 hours and 55 minutes to complete, culminating in breathtaking panoramic vistas from the 10,403-foot summit.

Planning your visit means preparing for a strenuous climb; this trail is widely regarded as difficult and demands significant physical fitness. The best time to tackle Kesler Peak Loop is from mid-June through the fall, as snow can persist on the upper sections well into the summer, adding to the challenge. While the trailhead is accessible, be aware of the seasonal conditions and plan accordingly for this high-altitude adventure.

Beyond the stunning scenery, the Kesler Peak Loop offers a unique glimpse into the area's past, with historical mining activity evident along the path. You'll encounter remnants like old mining roads, mine dumps, and even rusted tramway cables, providing a fascinating counterpoint to the natural beauty. This trail is a true hidden gem for those seeking solitude and a deep connection with both nature and history in the Brighton area.