Overview
Cecret Lake (yes, it's spelled "Cecret," not "Secret") is the easiest alpine lake hike in the Uinta-Wasatch-Cache National Forest. From the Albion Basin parking area at the top of Little Cottonwood Canyon, the trail gains only 400 feet over 0.9 miles to reach a glacial lake sitting at 9,460 feet. The scenery is disproportionately good for the effort required. For a more demanding Wasatch alpine experience in a neighboring canyon, Red Pine Lake in Little Cottonwood Canyon reaches a comparable setting with 2,100 feet of gain. If the dog prohibition is the deciding factor in your trail choice, Grandeur Peak in Mill Creek Canyon allows dogs and delivers one of the best front-country summit views above the city.
The real draw is the wildflowers. From mid-July through early August, the meadows around Albion Basin and along the trail to Cecret Lake erupt with one of the most concentrated wildflower displays in the Rocky Mountains. Lupine, paintbrush, columbine, bluebells, and dozens of other species blanket the hillsides in color. If you time it right, this short hike delivers some of the best wildflower photography in Utah.
Important: Little Cottonwood Canyon is a protected Salt Lake City watershed. No dogs, no swimming, no wading. These rules apply to Cecret Lake and all water sources on the trail.
The Route
The parking area to the meadows (0 to 0.4 miles). The trail starts at the upper end of the Albion Basin parking area and heads south through open meadows. The surface is well-maintained packed dirt and some boardwalk sections installed to protect the wildflower meadows. The grade is gentle. This section alone is worth the drive for the wildflower viewing.
Meadows to the lake (0.4 to 0.9 miles). The trail steepens slightly as it climbs through rocky alpine terrain toward the lake. A few short, steeper sections involve stepping up rocky shelves, but nothing that requires hands. The lake appears suddenly as you crest the final rise: a blue-green pool surrounded by talus slopes and craggy peaks.
The lake itself is relatively small but photogenic. The surrounding peaks (Sugarloaf Mountain, Devil's Castle) provide a dramatic backdrop. Spend some time here. Walk around the lake's edge (stay on established paths) and explore the views to the south.
When to Visit
Late July through early August: The wildflower peak. This two-to-three-week window is when the meadows are at their most colorful, and it's when most people visit. The Albion Basin road typically opens in late June or early July, depending on snowpack. Check with the Forest Service for the current status before driving up.
August: Wildflowers begin to fade but the weather is warm and reliable. Fewer crowds than the peak wildflower window.
September: Fall colors begin in the surrounding terrain. The lake takes on a deep blue tone. This is a quiet, beautiful time to visit, though the road may close early if snow arrives.
The road typically closes in October and doesn't reopen until late June or early July.
What to Bring
- Camera: This is one of the most photogenic short hikes in Utah. Early morning light is best for wildflower photos.
- Light layers: At 9,400+ feet, temperatures can be cool even in midsummer. Wind is common. A fleece or light jacket is smart.
- Sunscreen: Minimal shade on the trail. UV exposure is intense at this altitude.
- Water: A single water bottle is sufficient for this short hike, but bring some.
- Sturdy footwear: The upper trail section has rocky, uneven terrain. Sandals are not a good idea.
Practical Details
Parking: The Albion Basin parking area is small, with room for about 25 to 30 cars. On peak wildflower weekends (typically the last two weeks of July), the lot fills early and overflow parking lines the narrow road for a considerable distance. Arrive before 9 AM on weekends during wildflower season, or come on a weekday.
No dogs: Little Cottonwood Canyon is a Salt Lake City watershed. Dogs are prohibited. This is strictly enforced.
No swimming: No body contact with Cecret Lake or any water source.
Accessibility: The lower section of the trail through the meadows is relatively flat and could be managed by people with limited mobility, though it is not paved. The upper section to the lake is steeper and rockier.
Facilities: Vault toilets at the parking area. No water available.
Getting There
From Salt Lake City, take I-215 south to the 6200 South exit and follow signs for Little Cottonwood Canyon (SR-210). Drive the full length of the canyon past Snowbird and Alta ski resorts. The road narrows to a rough, unpaved surface for the final 2.5 miles to Albion Basin. Passenger cars can make it, but go slowly. Total drive time from downtown SLC is about 40 minutes.
The Albion Basin road (the final unpaved section above Alta) opens when snowmelt allows, typically late June to early July. Check the Forest Service website or call the Salt Lake Ranger District for current road status.
Beyond Cecret Lake
For a longer day, continue past the lake on a climber's trail toward Sugarloaf Pass or scramble the ridge toward Devil's Castle. Devil's Castle is a popular Class 3 scramble with exposed, loose rock: only for experienced scramblers with a head for heights. The views from the ridge are extraordinary.
For a different trail in the same area, the Catherine Pass Trail (also from Albion Basin) crosses a saddle into Brighton ski area's terrain with views of several high lakes. It's about 2 miles one way and makes a good add-on if Cecret Lake feels too short.
Cecret Lake is the hike you recommend to someone who wants to see big alpine scenery without a big alpine effort. The wildflowers are the main event, but even outside the bloom window, the lake and surrounding peaks are worth the 40-minute drive from downtown Salt Lake City. Just plan your visit around the road opening, get there early on weekends, and leave the dog at home. For a more adventurous lake hike in Little Cottonwood Canyon on a dog-allowed trail, the Donut Falls corridor in Big Cottonwood Canyon offers a family-friendly alternative, while Lake Blanche in the same canyon delivers a more demanding experience toward the Sundial Peak cirque. Bells Canyon above Sandy adds a completely different character to a Wasatch weekend: a granite slot canyon with a 40-foot waterfall at mile 2.5. The America the Beautiful pass is useful for frequent visitors to the Wasatch since several trailhead lots now require a day-use fee.