Hike to Ostler Peak in the High Uintas

Hiking Ostler Peak in the High Uintas Wilderness is a serious challenge for anyone. Typically, this hike is done over 2-3 days, with an overnight at the beautiful Ostler Lake. Strong hikers can do this hike in one day, however, as long as you are prepared and know the route. 

The route up Ostler follows the hiking trail to Amethyst Lake for most of the way. This trail is very well marked. Start from Christmas Meadows and take the cutoff after a couple miles for Amethyst Lake. The cutoff is signed and very hard to miss. From the cutoff, the trail gets steep as it climbs nearly 1,000 feet in a mile. While difficult, this part of the trail is beautiful, as it parallels a cascading stream, which is rare for Utah. 

Once the steepness ends, you are close to the point when leaving the trail is necessary. On your map, you will see Ostler Lake. There is no trail to Ostler Lake, but it is a must reach destination in order to climb Ostler Peak. Branch off the trail and work your way up to Ostler Lake. 

From Ostler Lake, the route is obvious. Follow the Northern Ridge of Ostler all the way to the summit. Where you get on the ridge is up to you, as long as you reach it before the north face cliffs out. Follow the ridgeline to the summit, but be aware of the nasty false summit at the top of the ridge. Traverse around the false summit to the right (west) until the real summit is in sight. 

Summit and take in the amazing views of the High Uintas. Ostler Peak is located in the middle of the most rugged part of the range. The view from the summit is truly incredible.