Lake Blanche is one of the most iconic alpine lakes in Utah and easily one of the best hikes near Salt Lake City. Sitting high in the Wasatch Mountains inside Big Cottonwood Canyon, this trail has everything that makes Utah hiking so good—wildflowers in summer, golden aspens in fall, endless views, and of course the stunning reflection of Sundial Peak towering above Lake Blanche.
It’s not the easiest hike in the Wasatch (the elevation gain will keep your calves honest), but the payoff is unreal. Whether you’re a local ticking off a classic trail or visiting from out of town and looking for a must-do day hike near Salt Lake City, Lake Blanche deserves a spot on your list.
Here’s everything you need to know before hitting the trail.
Quick Stats for the Lake Blanche Trail
HIKE TO: Lake Blanche
TRAIL: Lake Blanche Trail
TRAILHEAD: Mill B South Fork Trailhead (near the “S” curve on SR-190)
DISTANCE: 6.8 miles out and back
TIME: 3.5-5 hrs
DATE I WENT: 8/16-17/25
BEST TIME TO GO: Late June – October
DIFFICULTY: moderate-strenuous
ELEVATION GAIN: 2,703 ft
ELEVATION: 8,870 ft
HIKE PERMIT: no
PARKING PERMIT: no
LOCATION: Salt Lake City, Utah
Getting to the Lake Blanche Trailhead
This might be one of the most popular trailheads I’ve ever been to… and I’ve been to a lot.
The hike starts from the Mill B South Fork Trailhead, about 20 minutes from downtown Salt Lake City. Parking is extremely limited (think Utah’s version of “hiker rush hour”), so if you’re planning to go on a weekend, arrive early or prepare to circle like a hawk.
We knew we weren’t getting there at sunrise, so we gambled on a late-morning arrival to catch the turnover of day hikers and overnight backpackers leaving. It worked out—around 10 am, a steady stream of hikers were heading out, and we snagged the first open spot.
If the lot’s full, there is street parking along the canyon, but that fills quickly too. Carpooling is highly recommended here—you’ll thank yourself later.
Lake Blanche Hike Report
The hike up to Lake Blanche is straightforward but relentless. It’s short but steep-ish—the kind where you’re gaining the whole way up. Don’t expect flat reprieves, but do expect plenty of scenery to distract you from the climb.
We turned this into a full-weekend adventure at a very leisurely pace. Arrived at 9 am, waited out the parking rush (or lack thereof *crickets chirping*), finally got a spot around 10, and didn’t hit the trail until 11. I know, I know—slow start. But we planned for a relaxed trip and factored in the parking chaos, so no stress.
From the Mills B South Fork picnic area, the trail starts off shaded and flat for about a quarter mile, winding through tall pines with a creek flowing down beside you. Watch for the Lake Blanche Trail junction on the right.
From there, it’s a narrow dirt path all the way up: 6.3 miles roundtrip (6.8 miles if you count the flat approach) with about 2,700 feet of gain.
Even in mid-August we saw lingering wildflowers, though past their peak, and some leaves already turning red and orange. The trail alternates between shaded sections and exposed sun, with a few overgrown stretches brushing at your legs and towering above your head. And because this is one of Utah’s busiest hikes, you’ll be stepping aside constantly for other hikes passing through—scanning for little pull-offs becomes part of the rhythm.
The last stretch gets a little rocky and exposed, but when you crest that final rise and see Sundial Peak reflected in Lake Blanche, you’ll forget all about your tired legs. It’s one of those “yep, this was worth it” moments.
With slightly heavy overnight packs, we reached Lake Blanche 2:40 hrs from starting.
Lake Blanche Destination
Lake Blanche sits at an elevation of 8,870 ft and is gorgeous in its own right, but don’t stop there. If you veer right, you’ll stumble onto Lake Florence and Lake Lillian. They’re smaller, quieter, and a great way to dodge the main crowd.
Camping at Lake Blanche
We found a little hilltop perch 0.2 miles further between all the lakes, just big enough for our three-person tent—perfect, or so we thought. That night brought gusts strong enough to yank the tent stakes straight out and lift the whole thing off the ground. Picture this: our entire tent (with all our sleeping bags inside) going airborne. Absolute nightmare. Luckily, Julie and I happened to be walking back from a stroll at the exact moment it tried to launch—we caught it midair, literally.
Needless to say, we stuck large rocks on the corners inside the tent and re-anchored our tent with large rocks on every stake.
Reminder: You’re required to camp at least 200 feet from the lakes. We watched another group set up right next to Lake Florence by the outlet of Lake Lillian—please don’t do that. These alpine areas are fragile.
We ended up moving dinner inside the tent because the weather was getting nasty outside, but stepped back out for sunset which lit up to Sundial Peak with a fiery flow. Totally worth braving the wind.
Backpacking Gear List
Best Time to Hike Lake Blanche
- Summer (July): Wildflowers galore. This is prime time if you love color.
- Fall (late September – early October): Golden aspens and crisp air. The trail is extra popular this time of year with cooler temps, but it’s absolutely gorgeous.
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Tips for Hiking Lake Blanche
- Bring plenty of water — it’s a short trail but keeps you working with the continuous elevation gain and there’s no streams to filter water from once you’re on the Lake Blanche Trail until you get to the lake.
- Trekking poles are helpful for the descent, which can be hard on the knees.
- Start extremely early to avoid crowds and enjoy calmer reflections on the lake. My friend got to the trailhead at 4 am and said it was packed.
- Remember, no dogs allowed (yes, even though it feels like the perfect dog hike).
- Remember, no swimming is allowed at the lake.
Where to Stay Nearby
- Budget-friendly – Crystal Inn Hotel & Suites Midvalley (Cottonwood Heights): Solid reviews (8.8/10), free hot breakfast, indoor pool & hot tub, free Wi-Fi—it’s affordable but still brings the comforts. Click here to check availability.
- Mid-Range – Hyatt Place Cottonwood: Comfortable rooms, hot breakfast, and right at the mouth of Big Cottonwood Canyon. Click here to check availability.
- Luxury –The Grand America Hotel (downtown SLC): Among the few true 5-star hotels in Salt Lake City. Think Italian marble, spacious suites, incredible staff service, a killer pool, spa, plus world-class details—even a $340/night executive suite feels like a bargain for the luxe experience. Click here to check availability.
FAQs About Lake Blanche
How hard is the Lake Blanche hike?
It’s considered moderate to strenuous. The distance isn’t crazy, but the steady 2,700 feet of gain will keep you working the entire time.
How long does it take to hike Lake Blanche?
Plan for 3.5–5 hours depending on pace, breaks, and how long you hang out at the lakes.
Can you swim in Lake Blanche?
Swimming is not allowed—Big Cottonwood Canyon is part of Salt Lake City’s watershed.
Is Lake Blanche dog friendly?
Nope, dogs aren’t allowed in Big Cottonwood Canyon due to watershed regulations.
When is the best time to hike Lake Blanche?
July for wildflowers, late September for fall color. Avoid midsummer weekends if possible—it’s packed.
Final Thoughts on Lake Blanche
Lake Blanche is one of Utah’s most classic hikes for a reason. Between the steady workout, the wildflowers and fall colors, and the iconic view of Sundial Peak mirrored in the lake, it checks every box for a Wasatch adventure. Just don’t expect solitude—expect crowds, pack patience, and you’ll walk away with one of the best day hikes near Salt Lake City.
Tiff, the owner and author of Follow Tiff’s Journey, is a California/ Colorado-based adventurer and outdoor connoisseur who divides her heart between the Eastern Sierra Mountains and the Colorado Rocky Mountains. Despite her fear of heights, she’s become a seasoned mountaineer, ultralight hiking and backcountry camping enthusiast, expert road trip planner, and a fervent explorer of alpine lakes, natural hot springs, and sandstone canyons.
With 10 years of experience exploring the outdoors, her blog is your go-to source for all things wilderness, offering invaluable insights and pro tips, essential gear recommendations, and awe-inspiring stories from her adventures.
Join Tiff on her quest to share the wonders of nature and inspire others to follow their own path in the great outdoors.