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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.
709 m
Distance
This reflects the return distance of this route as measured by the GPS file.
20.9 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.
5.5-8h
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

Amethyst Lake Trail

Measurement:

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Table of contents

The Amethyst Lake Trail is a fantastic route in the high Uinta Mountains. This trail can either be done as a moderately challenging backpacking route or an ambitious day hike. With 13.0mi of gorgeous, mountainous trail, this hike will leave you breathless at every turn.

Route Description for Amethyst Lake Trail

The Amethyst Lake Trail is a gorgeous hike in the High Uinta Wilderness Area. This trail is an ambitious day-hike, so if you are planning to hike the whole route in one day, be sure to start early and bring a headlamp in case you wind up finishing in the dark. You will also need to bring lots of water and snacks to fuel your adventure. There is drinking water available at the Christmas Meadows Campground at the trailhead, so be sure to fill up your water bottle before hitting the trail. The last thing you will want to bring is a camera, with incredible views at every turn; the Amethyst Lake trail is absolutely stunning.

From the Christmas Meadows Campground, head south along the Stillwater Trail that parallels Stillwater Fork. At the divide, approximately 3.9 km in, take the trail on your left to hike 6.3 km to Amethyst Lake.

Once you reach the shores of Amethyst Lake, enjoy a rest lakeside, go for a swim, or try your luck at fishing these pristine alpine waters. When you’re ready to head home, simply turn around and retrace your steps back to the Christmas Meadows Campground where you began.

Getting to the Amethyst Lake Trail Trailhead

This hike begins at the Christmas Meadows Campground at the south end of Christmas Meadows Road (Forest Road 057) in the High Uinta Wilderness Area.

Route Information

  • Backcountry Campground:

    Christmas Meadows Campground, Primitive Camping along Trail

  • When to do:

    July to September

  • Pets allowed:

    Yes - On Leash

  • Family friendly:

    No

  • Route Signage:

    Average

  • Crowd Levels:

    High

  • Route Type:

    Out and back

Amethyst Lake Trail Elevation Graph

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