Dog Lake Utah

You can reach this scenic lake from trailheads in both Mill Creek Canyon (Lower Big Water Trailhead) and Big Cottonwood Canyon (Mill D Trailhead). The trail is 6 miles round trip from the Lower Big Water Trailhead, and 4 miles round trip from the Mill D trailhead in Big Cottonwood Canyon. Dogs are allowed on trails in Mill Creek Canyon, but not on trails in Big Cottonwood.

This is a moderately-difficult hike through an alpine forest to a pretty little lake in a scenic meadow. It's a great wildflower hike July-August, and perfect fall foliage walk at the end of September. Winter snow? No problem. Strap on your snowshoes and check the avalanche forecast.

Mill D Trailhead

(40.6498, -111.648)

The hike begins at the Mill D Trailhead, about 9 miles up Big Cottonwood Canyon. Several trails begin here. The Dog Lake trail starts from the north side of the road. It is a well-marked trail that heads up the side of the mountain in a northeast direction.

Dog Lake

(40.6671, -111.639)

Dog Lake is located at an elevation of about 8745 feet, and you gain about 1440 feet as you hike. The elevation gain is spread out over a fair distance and so it isn't oppressive.

Spend some time enjoying the lake and then return the way you came.

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