Hike of the week: Sunset Peak from Brighton

This classic hike takes you past beautiful wildflower meadows and three enchanting lakes, and the view from Sunset Peak is stunning. Brighton is a very nostalgic place to many Utahns and the hiking trails make wonderful family memories. The trail starts near the Brighton Center and takes you into a large wildflower meadow. There are some sitting benches in the meadow and for good reason. The trail gives you a beautiful workout. You arrive at the junction for Dog Lake at one mile. At the junction, you hear the sounds of rushing water and discover a small waterfall there. After taking it all in, keep right for Lake Mary. Just past the junction is a footbridge, and you come to the next junction; stay left. The Lake Mary dam comes into view as the trail goes up the left side of it. After the lake the trail splits near Catherine Lake; go right for Catherine Pass. At the pass, look for the uphill trail on the left side and take it for the peak. The last 400-foot stretch to the peak is steep and has a few drop-offs. From the peak, the entire hiking route comes into view. I suggest you stay awhile and daydream. I don't recommend families with small children hiking to Sunset Peak.

Directions: Drive to the top of Big Cottonwood Canyon and park near the Brighton Center.

Destination: Peak

Difficulty: Strenuous*

Round trip miles 5.9 miles

Hiking time 4 to 5 hours

Elevation gain 1,890 ft.

Trailhead restrooms Yes/Brighton Center

Dogs allowed: No