Backpacking in the Uintas, Utah. Notch Mountain Trail to Trail Lake

The Uinta Mountains in Utah offer some of the best backpacking opportunities in the state, with a wide variety of trails and stunning natural beauty. The Uintas are the only major mountain range in the continental United States that run east to west, and they are home to over 1000 lakes and many high mountain peaks, including the highest peak in Utah, Kings Peak at 13,528 ft.

Some popular backpacking destinations in the Uintas include:

• Highline Trail: This trail runs for over 40 miles through the heart of the Uintas, passing by many lakes and offering great views of the surrounding peaks.
• Mirror Lake Highway: This scenic drive offers access to many trailheads and lakes, including the popular destination of Mirror Lake.
• Red Castle: This area offers challenging backpacking and climbing opportunities, with rugged terrain and beautiful alpine scenery.
• Yellowstone Creek: This trail offers a remote and challenging backpacking experience, with rugged terrain and beautiful alpine scenery.

When planning a backpacking trip in the Uintas, it is important to be prepared for the rugged and remote terrain, and to be aware of the potential for severe weather, including thunderstorms and snow. A permit is required for overnight camping in the Uintas wilderness. It’s also recommended to have a map, compass, and GPS device, and to be familiar with the Leave No Trace principles.

Notch Mountain Trail to Trial Lake is a 19 mile trail located near Kamas, Utah in the Uinta National Forest.

The elevation gain is 3093 feet and is heavily used by backpackers, day hikers, horses and dogs. Since the Mirror Lake Highway gets a ton of snow it has seasonal closures. The trails are usually snow free from May to October. If you are hiking in this area make sure to pay the day use fee at the service station on your way in. This is a permit that you can place on your windshield of your car.

The Notch Mountain Trail to Trial Lake is a popular backpacking trail in the Uinta Mountains, Utah. The trailhead is located at the Notch Mountain Trailhead and the trail is approximately 8.5 miles one-way and takes you through the beautiful alpine landscapes of the Uintas, passing by several lakes and offering great views of the surrounding peaks.

The trail starts at an elevation of about 10,500 feet and climbs to over 11,500 feet, reaching the summit of Notch Mountain at around mile 3. From there, the trail descends to Trial Lake, which is a great spot for camping and fishing. The trail is considered as a moderate to difficult trail, with some steep sections and rocky terrain.

Some things to keep in mind when planning a trip on in the Uintas, Utah Wilderness include:

• A permit is required for overnight camping in the Uintas wilderness.
• Be prepared for changing weather conditions, as thunderstorms and snow can be common in the high alpine environment.
• Carry enough food and water, as well as a map, compass, and GPS device, as the trail can be difficult to follow in some areas.
• Be aware of the Leave No Trace principles, and pack out all trash and food scraps.

It’s also recommended to check the trail conditions and weather forecast before heading out, and to be prepared for the rugged terrain.