Last summer, we wrote about 10 beautiful lakes in Utah. Of course, the Beehive State has many more than just ten! So, here's another list of lakes you should definitely visit this summer. Get out of the heat and into the mountain to enjoy the natural beauty surrounding these mountain lakes and reservoirs. Some are perfect for fishing; others are great for boating and water skiing. You might just hike to one of these lakes to enjoy a picnic and some wilderness solitude. Check out these 10 magical Utah lakes!
1. Red Pine Lake, Little Cottonwood Canyon
This pretty lake is located in Little Cottonwood Canyon. To visit, take the three-mile hike from the White Pine trailhead. The hike is somewhat strenuous (you’ll gain about 2,000 in elevation), but the views along the way are well worth the effort to reach one of the best natural lakes in Utah.
2. White Pine Lake, Logan Canyon
White Pine Lake, in Logan Canyon, provides hikers with an unparalleled experience. Surrounded by pines and aspens, this lake is clear, cold and (usually) quiet. To find the trailhead, travel about 20 miles up the canyon to the Tony Grove turnoff, then turn left and proceed about seven miles to the parking lot. The hike is seven miles round trip but worth the effort to reach one of the best lakes in Utah.
3. Teapot Lake, Uintahs
Teapot Lake is one of the easiest Utah lakes to get to, take a drive along the gorgeous Mirror Lake Scenic Byway to find Teapot Lake. You can park right next to the lake, then enjoy the beautiful alpine surroundings and fresh mountain air. Teapot can be good for fishing and is always a pleasant spot for a picnic. Consider staying the night in the campground!
4. Utah Lake, Provo
Residents of Utah County are certainly familiar with this large, beautiful lake. The lake has a surface area of 95,000 acres, but only averages 10.5 feet in depth. This is one of the best Utah lakes
for watersports, sailing and fishing. Visit Utah State Park for camping, paddleboard and boat rentals, restrooms, picnic areas and showers.
5. Oquirrh Lake, South Jordan
If you’re looking for some water recreation close to home in the Salt Lake Valley, visit Oquirrh Lake at Daybreak in South Jordan. This is one of the beautiful lakes in Utah that is a nice spot for a picnic or walk. You can fish from the shore with a two fish limit. Boating is limited to residents of Daybreak only, but you can still enjoy this pretty destination.
6. Sand Hollow Reservoir, Hurricane
Sand Hollow Reservoir is one of the best lakes in Utah for striking scenery. You'll experience a stunning red-rock backdrop and clear, warm waters. It’s a popular lake for boating, and a great place to camp overnight.
7. Yuba Lake, Levan
Yuba Lake is located right in the middle of the state. When the fish are biting, you’ll find walleye, perch and northern pike. In the late summer, the level of the lake becomes fairly shallow, so you’ll want to take care while boating. Yuba Lake State Park just installed two zip lines near the Oasis Campground. What other Utah lakes can say that?
8. Amethyst Lake, Uintahs
If you’re looking for a less-crowded lake, and you’re willing to hike (or backpack) in, Amethyst Lake will reward you with picturesque views and solitude. The six-mile hike isn’t easy - you’ll gain more than 2,000 feet elevation but it’s sooo worth it! If you want to fish, plan on spending the night so you can catch them in the early morning and evening hours. Access the trailhead from the Christmas Meadows Campground, off the Mirror Lake Scenic Byway. Enjoy one of the most beautiful lakes in Utah!
9. Lakes Mary and Catherine, Big Cottonwood Canyon
Take the Five Lakes Loop trail and you’ll get two-for-one Utah lakes! Drive up Big Cottonwood Canyon to Brighton, and park near the Silver Lake Visitor Center. The trailhead starts there and takes you three miles up to the two lakes. You can take a quick side trip to Dog Lake along the way. These alpine lakes are popular with many Utahns, so don’t plan on a lot of solitude unless you’re there on a weekday morning, but they’re so pretty that you just might be willing to share.
10. Otter Creek Reservoir, Antimony
Otter Creek State Park is a favorite with both ATV and bird-watching enthusiasts. The reservoir offers some excellent fishing opportunities, and the park has camping, restrooms, showers and a walking trail. This is one of the great Utah lakes that has it all!
There are so many beautiful lakes in Utah! Did we miss your favorite lake? Share your photos on our Facebook Page!
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