Ask any Utah hiker about a trail that takes you to some gorgeous lakes, and they’ll tell you about the Lake Blanche Trail in Big Cottonwood Canyon. That trail is definitely one of our favorites, too, but there’s another, lesser-known trail in Little Cottonwood Canyon that you need to check out.

To reach the trailhead for the Maybird Gulch Trail, drive 5.6 miles up Little Cottonwood Canyon to the White Pines Trailhead. The trail takes you to White Pine Canyon, then into the Lone Peak Wilderness Area.
Sarah Brown/Alltrails
There's a parking lot at the trailhead that usually has spots available during weekdays, but on weekends you might have to park along the road.
This picturesque trail is just over seven miles long, and it's considered moderately challenging.
Sarah Brown/Alltrails
You'll climb an elevation of 2,175 feet during the hike.
This trail offers all the iconic beauty of Utah's Wasatch Mountains, from the fragrant pines...
Sarah Brown/Alltrails
...to the gurglng creek.
Sarah Brown/Alltrails
You'll cross the creek in a few spots, and you'll want to take extra care if you're hiking during winter months.
Breck Tuttle/Alltrails
That water is cold even in the summer!
You'll witness some stunning views of the canyon along the way.
Sarah Brown/Alltrails
Bring your lunch and enjoy some stellar scenery at the top.
Breck Tuttle/Alltrails
The Maybird Lakes are tiny little gems, and sometimes during summer months they're completely dry.
Aaron Daniels/Alltrails
Depending on the time of year and drought conditions, you might find that the lakes are several feet deep...or a completely dry rockbed.
The majestic Pfeifferhorn stands 11,326 feet tall, towering above the lakes.
Breck Tuttle/Alltrails
Don't forget your camera or phone - this magnificent peak is picturesque.
Depending on conditions, this trail is perfect for hiking during winter months, but you'll want to take precautions.
Tim Carlson/Alltrails
Check with the Utah Avalanche Center before hiking. The trail is usually traveled enough that you won't need snowshoes, but YakTrax or other cleats might come in handy.

Have you hiked the Maybird Gulch Trail? We’d love to see your photos and read about your hike!

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