Notch Mountain Trail to Trial Lake, Utah.
Notch Mountain Trail to Trial Lake is one of the most rewarding backpacking routes in the Uinta Mountains. The trail climbs above tree line before dropping into a chain of alpine lakes surrounded by granite peaks. If you’re looking for an overnight backpacking trip in Utah with incredible scenery and fewer crowds than some of the more popular trails, this one deserves a spot on your list.
The hike is challenging, but every mile is worth it. We chose this route because we wanted to explore beyond the busiest sections of Mirror Lake Highway, and it quickly became one of our favorite backpacking trips in the Uintas.
Quick Facts
Trail: Notch Mountain Trail to Trial Lake
Location: Uinta Mountains, Utah
Distance: Approximately 19 miles
Elevation Gain: About 3,100 feet
Difficulty: Moderate to Difficult
Trailhead: Notch Mountain Trailhead
Best Time to Visit: July through September
Dogs Allowed: Yes
Camping: Backcountry camping is permitted throughout the Uinta National Forest.
How to Get There.
The trailhead is located along Mirror Lake Highway near Kamas, Utah. From Salt Lake City, the drive takes about two hours and follows Interstate 80 through Kamas before climbing into the Uinta Mountains.
Parking is available at both the Notch Mountain Trailhead and near Trial Lake if you’re arranging a shuttle. During summer weekends the lots can fill early, so arriving in the morning is your best bet.
Hiking the Notch Mountain Trail.
The trail begins with a steady climb through forest before reaching open alpine terrain above 11,000 feet. Once above tree line, the views stretch across the Uinta Mountains in every direction.
After reaching the notch, the trail descends toward Trial Lake, passing several smaller alpine lakes along the way. This section is one of my favorites because the scenery changes constantly. Granite cliffs, wildflowers, open meadows, and quiet lakes make every mile feel different.
Although the trail is well established, you’ll want to carry a map or GPS. Afternoon thunderstorms build quickly in the Uintas during the summer, so it’s smart to get an early start each day.
Camping Along the Trail.
There are several excellent backcountry campsites near Trial Lake and the surrounding alpine lakes. Most are located on durable surfaces with easy access to water.
Always filter drinking water and follow Leave No Trace principles. Camp at least 200 feet from lakes and streams whenever possible to help protect these fragile alpine environments.
One of my favorite parts of this trip is waking up above 10,000 feet with the mountains completely quiet before the day hikers arrive.
What to Pack.
Weather in the Uintas changes fast, even during the middle of summer.
I always bring a lightweight rain jacket, warm layers, trekking poles, a water filter, bug spray and a head net during mosquito season. Good
boots are helpful because several sections of the trail are rocky and uneven.
Best Time to Visit.
Late July and August are usually the best months to backpack the Notch Mountain Trail. Wildflowers are blooming, the snow has mostly melted, and the long days give you plenty of time to enjoy camp.
September offers cooler temperatures, fewer people, and beautiful fall colors. Nights can drop below freezing, so pack accordingly.
Wildlife.
It’s common to see deer, marmots, pika, and moose throughout the Uinta Mountains. Keep your distance from wildlife and store food securely around camp.
If you’re fishing, several lakes along the route hold cutthroat trout and make a great place to spend the afternoon.
Final Thoughts.
The Notch Mountain Trail to Trial Lake combines everything I love about backpacking in Utah. Big mountain views. Beautiful alpine lakes. Quiet campsites. It feels remote without requiring a week in the backcountry.
If you’re looking for one of the best backpacking trips in the Uinta Mountains, this trail is well worth the effort.
