Sunset Peak is one of the most accessible peaks in the Cottonwood Canyons. At 10,648 feet you can see both Little and Big Cottonwood Canyons, Timpanogos, and Park City. This trail is 4.2 miles and can be started in two different locations. You can start at Brighton Lake and head up towards Lake Catherine, or you can start at the Albion Basin up Little Cottonwood Canyon.
There are pros and cons to both. Starting at Brighton Lakes you are not required to pay a fee for the parking area, which is required at Catherine's Pass Trailhead up Little Cottonwood Canyon. We paid $10 cash to access the parking lot. I believe they have shuttles that will take you up to the trailhead, but they were not running at the time we went. If you choose to go through Catherine's Pass you will be surrounded by wildflowers. The Albion Basin is known for its colorful wildflowers that cover the mountainside.
This is the route we chose and I was not disappointed. When we reached the part of the trail to start our climb towards the peak there were so many people I was shocked. We had seen a few people on the Catherine's Pass trail which made it a relaxing hike. As we started to climb towards to the top the trail turned very sandy and gets your calves into go mode. This was the worst part of the hike, but it didn't last long and we were given a break to watch a moose that had chosen to take a swim in the lake below.
Once we made it to the top we enjoyed the view trying to find the moose again. He had moved on into the trees. There were quite a few people at the lakeshore that must have spooked him away. It is impossible not to spend a lot of time here. There is so much to look at, each canyon has its own distinctive character. There will be plenty of people to take your photo and enjoy the view with you. The earlier you go the less crowded it will be.
What You Want to Know
Take Me There!
Drive up Little Cottonwood Canyon all the way to the top. There will be a person to direct you up to the parking lot to the trailhead or to the parking for the shuttle. From there head out on the Catherine's Pass Trailhead towards Sunset Peak.
How long is the hike?
This is a 4.2 mile out and back trail with 1,322 feet of elevation gain.
What Do I Wear?!
We started hiking early in the morning and it was a little chilly. I did not bring a jacket because it was the end of July and I knew soon enough it would be hot and I would regret having a jacket with me. But if you do this hike earlier in the summer season or towards the end, layers wouldn't be a bad idea.
Can I bring my dog?
No. Dogs are not allowed in the Cottonwood Canyons because it is a watershed.
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