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UINTAS — The Uinta-Wasatch-Cache National Forest offers dozens of great hikes, but if you are looking for a nice day hike that leads you to a pristine, uncrowded lake, check out the Long Lake hike.
The Lakes Country trailhead is located in the parking lot near the Washington Lake Campground and can be accessed on the Trial/Washington Lake Road at mile marker 26. Hikers can access various lakes from the trail including Crystal, Marjorie, Weir, Island, Big Elk, Duck and, of course, Long Lake.
The hike is 4 miles roundtrip and is moderately difficult, with some long stretches of inclines. The trail is hard packed, but has several rocky areas so hikers should wear sturdy shoes and watch their step.
Hikers will have a nice view of Crystal Lake during the first half mile on the trail, making for some beautiful photo opportunities. The trail crosses several small streams along the way, some of which have wooden bridge walkways over them. If you are hiking with a dog, they will have plenty of water available.
A lot of the hike is shaded by tall pine trees, but toward the top of the ridge, it gets more sparse so hikers should remember to wear sunscreen. On the top of the ridge, hikers will also have a great view of Mount Watson in the distance.
From the ridge, the trail gradually descends towards Long Lake. The trail forks about .5 miles from the lake, giving hikers the option to continue on to Long Lake and Smith Morehouse or to go to Marjorie, Weir and Duck Lakes. Stay right and continue hiking on the well-marked trail to Long Lake.
Sitting at just over 10,000 feet in elevation, Long Lake was aptly named: it is quite long and narrow. The water is really clear and offers some good high-elevation fishing. Hikers can relax by the pristine, picturesque lake and I would recommend taking a picnic. Camping is allowed at Long Lake so if hikers are feeling adventurous, they can backpack in and spend the night.
The hike takes about 2 hours roundtrip and is a great, short day hike.
Length: 4 miles roundtrip
Time: 2 ½ hours
Difficulty: Moderate
