This Little-Known Hiking Path in Utah Is Our Favorite First Hike of the Year

If you’re an avid hiker like me, you probably put a lot of thought into what your first hike of the year will be. Even though January 1 is “just another day” in technical terms, for most of us, it’s symbolic of a clean slate and a fresh start. I always plan my first hike well in advance of the new year because it sets the tone for the next 12 months, so careful consideration is important. Red Lake Trail is a little-known hiking path in Utah that makes the perfect first hike of the year for several reasons. It’s not too difficult, it offers relative seclusion for a quiet and contemplative stroll, and to cap it all off, there’s often snow on the ground during the winter months.

The Red Lake Trail is just under four miles long and tucked away in the Uinta-Wasatch-Cache National Forest near Payson. It's an out-and-back route that begins near the Maple Lake Campground, has an elevation gain of roughly 870 feet, and is rated moderate on AllTrails.

Kid and pet-friendly, the trail gradually climbs through a maple tree grove before descending to a stream crossing. From there, another gentle ascent leads hikers to Red Lake, which stuns with its lush conifer forest surrounding the water. There's usually lots of snow on the trail during winter, so you'll probably need snowshoes. All is calm as you traverse the powdery landscape and revel in the stillness and quiet this time of year brings.

Both evergreen and barren trees line the path and cover the nearby mountains, creating a stark contrast against the gleaming white snow. You're unlikely to encounter many other hikers on the Red Lake Trail, making it ideal for clearing your head and reflecting on the past year and the 12 months still to come.

If you wish to spend more time outdoors this upcoming year, start off on the right foot (literally!) by tackling this little-known path in Utah. If you wish to learn more about this Utah hike, visit AllTrails for more information about the Red Lake Trail. If you need any hiking gear, our Ultimate Hiking Packing List makes it easy with all the best products from top-rated brands.

Have you ever embarked on this little-known hiking path in Utah? What are your favorite hikes to tackle each winter? Let us know by filling out this nomination form. Make sure you also give our previous article a read to learn why nearby Payson is one of the best day trips in Utah. And, if you are feeling inspired, try planning your own winter adventure using Only In Your State’s itinerary planner.