Red Pine Trail

The Red Pine Trail begins at the White Pine Trailhead, located in Little Cottonwood Canyon near Salt Lake City, Utah. Parking is available at the trailhead, but it can fill up quickly, especially on weekends. Arriving early is highly recommended.

The Red Pine Trail is generally rated as moderately challenging to strenuous. The initial section is relatively gentle, but it soon ascends steeply through dense forests. You'll encounter rocky sections, roots, and occasional wooden bridges. The trail transitions to beautiful alpine environments, culminating at Red Pine Lake. Proper hiking footwear and poles are highly recommended due to the consistent climb and sometimes slippery terrain.

The best time to hike the Red Pine Trail is during the summer and fall months. In summer, you'll experience vibrant wildflowers. While beautiful, snow can persist in the upper elevations until mid-June, so be prepared for varied conditions if hiking early in the season.

The Red Pine Trail is located within the Uinta-Wasatch-Cache National Forest and the Lone Peak Wilderness Area. While there are no specific hiking permits or entrance fees required for the trail itself, standard wilderness regulations apply. Always check the latest regulations for the Uinta-Wasatch-Cache National Forest before your visit.

No, dogs are generally not allowed on the Red Pine Trail or in Little Cottonwood Canyon due to its status as a protected watershed area for Salt Lake City. This restriction helps maintain water quality. Please respect these regulations to protect the natural environment.

Along the route, you'll pass through lush forests of aspen and pine, encounter a creek, and see several bridges and waterfalls. The trail offers views of the Salt Lake Valley and the surrounding red-peaked mountains. The primary destination is Red Pine Lake, a stunning green-blue alpine lake nestled in a high basin. For more experienced hikers, a social trail continues to Upper Red Pine Lake, offering even more dramatic ridges and peaks.

The area is rich in wildlife, with opportunities to spot mule deer, various bird species, and even moose. In the summer, the trail is known for its abundance of vibrant wildflowers, adding to the scenic beauty of the alpine environment.

Yes, the Red Pine Trail is part of a network of trails in the area. While you'll be primarily on the Red Pine Trail, sections of the route also pass through or connect to the Maybird Gulch Trail and the White Pine Trail. For experienced hikers, it also provides access to summit the Pfeifferhorn.

The Red Pine Trail is generally considered moderately challenging to strenuous due to its consistent elevation gain and rocky terrain. While the initial section is gentle, it quickly becomes steep. It is best suited for moderately experienced to experienced hikers. Beginners or families with young children might find it quite challenging, though well-prepared and fit families could manage.

Yes, as the trail is within the Lone Peak Wilderness Area and a watershed, there are important regulations. Swimming and wading are prohibited in the lakes and streams to protect water quality. Additionally, campfires are not allowed anywhere in the wilderness area. Always practice Leave No Trace principles to preserve this pristine environment.

The Red Pine Trail is an out-and-back hike, approximately 7 to 8 miles (11-13 kilometers) round trip. With an elevation gain of around 1,940 to 2,600 feet, it typically takes about 4 to 5 hours to complete, depending on your pace and how long you spend enjoying Red Pine Lake.