About
Lackawaxen Lake sits just below Clayton Peak, off of Guardsmans Pass. Because this trail is on the other side of Big Cottonwood Canyon, dogs are allowed off leash. In fact, this trail is a perfect summer hike for the pups since there are two lakes for them to swim in, Bloods Lake and Lackawaxen Lake.
This is a popular trail, especially to Bloods Lake, but beyond that not many people venture up to Lackawaxen. The mosquitoes can be really bad on this trail, so bring bug spray just in case. Lackawaxen Lake makes you feel like you are in high alpine terrain, as you hike through open meadows and then a small boulder field before reaching the lake.
Directions
The trail starts 1 mile to the East of Guardsmans Pass. Use this driving map if you are coming from SLC. The road to Guardsmas Pass is only open during summer months.
Trail Info
Distance: 5 miles RT
Elevation gain: 920 ft
Time: 1-3 hours
Dog friendly? Yes, off leash
Kid friendly? Yes for ages 10+
Fees/permits? None
** UPDATE 2020**
As of June 2020 dogs are now banned from this trail and lake
The new parking area is located at
It can fit roughly 50-60 cars and there is a port-a-potty available.
Use the cross walk from the parking lot, then you will see the sign for Bloods Lake Trail.
The new trail is very nice and gradual, and very shaded. Much better views as well!
Tall Aspen tress line the trail.
The dogs lead the way!
Pass by a large open meadow to the left, then work up a handful of switchbacks.
At 1.5 miles reach Bloods Lake!
Walk around Bloods Lake, and when you reach the SE end, hike up the trail that looks like it leads left. This will wrap back around to the South, leading to Lackawaxen Lake.
You’ll hike up a small hill, then will immediately drop back down.
The trail heads directly West for about 0.5 miles, and you’ll hike up two but short and steep sections of trail.
Eventually the trail curves south again, and you will be hiking through a pretty, open meadow
The trail can get a little mushy, especially if you hike early in the season.
You’ll hike through a small boulder field. You can still see a trail, from all the people that hike over the boulders and have worn the rock down a little. If you feel lost, just aim for the group of trees straight ahead. Lackawaxen Lake is just beyond those trees.
At 2.5 miles reach Lackawaxen Lake!
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