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LOGAN CANYON — Anyone looking for a way to escape the unusually high temperatures lately should take a day hike to White Pine Lake up Logan Canyon.
Even though summer is here, White Pine Lake Trail has only recently become accessible, due to snow finally melting away from the trail and area. The north facing hill and descent into the lake will continue to have snow for a couple of weeks, but the trail can be hiked. Just be prepared to walk over a few small sections of snow or on a muddy trail until July.
The trailhead for the White Pine Lake Trail begins at Tony Grove Lake, located on Highway 89 between Logan and Garden City. You can park at Tony Grove Lake with a day parking pass.
The trail starts out in open fields with a steady incline. At around ¼ mile, you will come to an intersection and can either go on Naomi Peak Trail or White Pine Lake Trail. Take a right to continue on White Pine Lake Trail.
The trail continues uphill for roughly 2.5 miles. As you climb to the high point of around 8,800 feet, you get different scenic views of meadows, peaks and hills. You will also cross multiple streams along the way. However, some smaller streams will likely dry up as the snow disappears later in the summer months.
Once you reach the high point before your descent, you will start to see the two large peaks on either side of White Pine Lake, giving you a great view.
The last mile of the trail is very steep, descending 400-500 feet, and has multiple switch backs. The pine trees are thicker on the descent as it is on a north-facing hill and you may run into patches of snow and mud along the trail. The snow likely won’t be completely melted until sometime in July.
Once you reach the bottom, you will go over a bridge and cross the White Pine Creek. Then, you will be brought to the last junction point where you can either go left or straight. Both options will take you around White Pine Lake.
Camping is allowed at the lake and backpacking in is a great option if you want an longer getaway than just a day hike.
Distance: 8 miles roundtrip (with walking around lake)
Time: About 4 hours
Difficulty level: Difficult
Bryce Jolley is a Salt Lake City resident who works in the solar industry. He enjoys outdoor activities such as hiking, camping and fishing with his family and friends. You can contact him at jolleyness@gmail.com
