This week's Utah hiking adventure: Clayton Peak in Big Cottonwood Canyon

The trail starts on the right side of the Brighton Center and goes up the ski run meadow. During summer the meadow explodes with wildflowers. On the way to the main trail junction, there are sitting logs so hikers can take a break. At 0.9 miles is the junction for Dog Lake and Lake Mary. Go left for Dog Lake. From the trail, there are two splits going right for Dog Lake. Take one of them to visit the lake. After your visit to the lake, head back to the main trail. Upon leaving the Dog Lake area, the trail goes into the conifers and smooths out. At 1.3 miles you leave the trees for a large meadow. From this meadow, you can see Clayton Peak standing tall to the east. Once again the trail enters the trees after crossing the service road. Watch for marmots scurrying in the woods. The trail opens briefly under another chairlift and crosses the service road near the ridgeline. After one switchback you arrive at Snake Creek Pass, at 2.4 miles into the hike. Check out Heber Valley and beautiful Mount Timpanogos from the pass. Take the service road heading northeast for the peak. From the road, watch for the unmarked trail heading up the mountainside on the right. The trail is steep as you switchback up boulders for the peak. On top, kick back and take in the view!

DestinationPeak

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

Difficulty: Moderate/strenuous

Round trip miles: 6.2 miles

Hiking time: 4 to 5 hours

Elevation gain: 1,941 ft.

Trailhead restrooms: Brighton Center

Dogs allowed: No

SOURCE: National Geographic "Topo!"

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