Cecret Lake
Alta, Utah
Details
Distance
1.78 miles
Elevation Gain
509 ft
Route Type
Out-and-Back
Description
Added by Michael Johnston
Cecret Lake offers amazing views of the upper Albion Basin. If you head there during the right time of year, there are wildflowers in abundance on the hike.
Cecret Lake is reached by driving up Little Cottonwood Canyon to Albion Basin above Alta Ski Resort. The hike is just under 1 mile to the lake and should take about 30 minutes. The hike goes through fields full of wildflowers and wildlife is abundant. Moose, deer, and various wildlife can be seen from the trail. The parking area can be busier on the weekends, so it is suggested you arrive early or utilize the free shuttle offered through the town of Alta
The hike is free, but parking is limited, so I recommend arriving early on a weeknight or on the weekends. The last 2.5 miles of the road is graded, but is definitely open to low clearance vehicles. Albion Basin Campground is located near the trailhead and can be reserved. The drive up Little Cottonwood Canyon is definitely picturesque so plan extra time to take pictures along the way of this beautiful glacial valley.
The Pie Pizzeria in Union Park (7186 Union Park Ave) is a great place to go after hiking to Cecret Lake. Their specialty pizzas and beer on tap is the best on the Wasatch Front. Plus, the ambience and atmosphere of the restaurant is on point.
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Reviews
This hike will make you want to sing “Sound of Music” while you’re climbing up to the lake. Really pretty mountain area and lots of wildflowers. It was a tad busy but there’s plenty of room to spread out around the lake and we did go on a Saturday.
5.0
This is a really great hike, it's really easy and would be a good one to take kids on. It's pretty high elevation, but still wear some sunscreen. And take some bug spray, there are a lot of bugs around the lake.
5.0
I spent my entire childhood camping here with my family. Absolutely wonderful area teaming with wildlife. Look out for all the moose.
5.0
Road up to the trail was closed! I saw people hiking up anyhow but would be an extra 2.6 miles
1.0
A must do hike for any Utahn or anyone visiting! Quick, easy and accessible to families! Bring a camera, the lake is spectacular!
5.0
Still not sure why we left the main trail, but we took a smaller single track spur and ended up pleasantly wandering around for a while. Finally made it back to the trail and up to the lake. We had 6 kids ages 13 months to 10 years and they all did great!
5.0
i came here a bunch with my family as a kid and still go these days. it's a really nice spot, never gets old.
5.0
One of the most beautiful hikes in Little Cottonwood Canyon. We also camped up here but right below Devil's Castle to avoid the crowds in the morning. Definitely recommend it.
5.0
Great Utah hike. Breathtaking in July when the wildflowers are in full bloom. Hike is nice for families, but go on a weekday if you are trying to avoid them.
4.0
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Nearby
Backpack Lake Catherine and Bag Sunset Peak
Hike Catherine Pass
Hike Mount Wolverine
Ski Baldy's Main Chute at Alta Ski Area
Spring Backcountry Ski Alta Ski Area
Cecret Lake from Albion Basin
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