Hike to Cecret Lake in Alta
A family-friendly path leading to a stunning alpine lake tucked into a glacial cirque, often surrounded by moose in the early morning.
Itinerary tips
- 1Arrive before 8:00 AM on weekends to secure a parking spot at the Albion Basin trailhead before the lot reaches capacity.
- 2Budget roughly 90 minutes for the 1.7-mile round trip, allowing extra time for photography and wildlife viewing at the shoreline.
- 3Bring a credit card to pay the per-vehicle amenity fee at the booth located just past the town of Alta.
- 4Carry a reusable water bottle and wear sunscreen, as the high-altitude terrain offers very little shade along the path.
- 5Stay on the designated gravel trails at all times to protect the fragile alpine wildflowers and local watershed.
- 6Pack a light jacket even in summer, as temperatures at 9,000 feet are significantly cooler than in the Salt Lake Valley.
More in Salt Lake City
Hike to Cecret Lake at Alta
Catch the final high-alpine wildflowers and crisp mountain air on this family-friendly trek to a stunning glacial cirque.
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HikingHike the Living Room Trail at Sunset
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HikingDrive the Alpine Loop Scenic Byway
The Alpine Loop Scenic Byway (State Route 92) climbs between American Fork Canyon and Provo Canyon past Mount Timpanogos, Sundance and Timpanogos Cave National Monument. It is a slow, winding drive rather than a fast one, a recreation fee applies in American Fork Canyon, and the upper section closes through the winter months.
scenic