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Difficulty
This reflects the 10Adventures difficulty rating for each route. We aim to keep ratings consistent across regions.
Moderate
Elevation
This reflects the total elevation gained throughout this route as measured by the GPS file. This includes all ascents and descents, and is higher than what is quoted in most route guides, which simply measure the distance between the starting-point and high-point of the route.
389 m
Distance
This reflects the return distance of this route as measured by the GPS file.
8.4 km
Duration
This reflects the estimated time the majority of users will take on this trail. If you are slower, add time to the top-end figure. If you are fast, then you may complete this route faster than this time range.
2.5-3.5h
User Ratings
These ratings are completed by users who have completed this trail and not subject to reviews by 10Adventures.
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Directions to Trailhead

Dog Lake via The Big Water Trail

Measurement:

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Table of contents

Dog Lake via the Big Water Trail is a fantastic hike for dogs and their people. This trail is a popular route in the area that gets lots of two-legged and four-legged traffic in the summer and fall. The wildflowers that pepper the Big Water Trail make it a scenic hike to the little lake at the end and the steady incline will give you and your dog a great workout.

Route Description for Dog Lake via The Big Water Trail

The hike to Dog Lake via the Big Water Trail is a highly popular, dog-friendly route in the Uinta-Wasatch-Cache National Forest. This trail is busy, so arrive early to snag a parking spot. If your dog is skittish around other pups, this might not be the best trail for you as Dog Lake is a hot spot for dog-walkers and adventure pups from near and far.

In accordance with the rules of the Mill Creek Canyon Wilderness Area, dogs are allowed off-leash on the Big Water Canyon Trail on odd numbered days of the month but must be on-leash on even numbered days. Please be respectful towards everyone on this multi–use trail: follow the rules and please clean up after your dog, so everyone can enjoy this gorgeous route.

From the trailhead, follow the Big Water Trail south and stay straight at the first divide. After crossing over Big Water Gulch, the trail will split again, take a right here and follow the path that heads south. The path will split once more, approximately 1.8 km later, take the right-hand path once again and follow the trail for just a quarter of a mile to Dog Lake.

Take a rest at the lake and enjoy watching the dogs playing in the water before turning around and following the same path back to the trailhead.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I bring my dog to Dog Lake in Utah?

Yes, dogs are permitted to hike to Dog Lake along the Big Water Trail in the Uinta-Wasatch-Cache National Forest. Dog Lake can also be accessed via the Mill D North Fork Trail: this trail is not dog-friendly.

Insider Hints for Dog Lake via The Big Water Trail

  • This trail is very popular, arrive early in the day to snag a parking spot
  • This trail can be used by mountain bikers on even days, keep your eyes and ears open on these days and allow bikers to pass you by

Getting to the Dog Lake via The Big Water Trail Trailhead

This hike begins at the Big Water Trailhead at the east end of Mill Creek Canyon Road, east of Salt Lake City.

Route Information

  • Backcountry Campground:

    No

  • When to do:

    July to October

  • Pets allowed:

    Yes - Off leash

  • Family friendly:

    Yes

  • Route Signage:

    Average

  • Crowd Levels:

    High

  • Route Type:

    Out and back

Dog Lake via The Big Water Trail Elevation Graph

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