Dog Lake is a lovely mountain lake along the ridge between Big Cottonwood Canyon and Millcreek Canyon. This post is about the Big Cottonwood route.
Directions
The Dog Lake Trail begins at Mill D North Fork, which is across the street from the Donut Falls winter gate. As of 12/01/24 this is a fee area $10/vehicle for a 3-day pass, $20/vehicle for a 7-day pass, $60/vehicle for a year pass, or $80/vehicle for the America the Beautiful National Parks Pass that includes all the National Parks and Monuments in the country.
Purchase pass online here.
The trail heads up the hill and then heads off to the right up the hill. It is the same trail to Desolation Lake.
As you get higher, the views of the mountains are stunning!
The wildflowers are gorgeous in the summer too!
The fall color is gorgeous! It’s mostly golden aspens, but there are some vibrant reds too.
The trail heads back through the mountains towards the north. Keep an eye out for mountain bikers.
Soon you come close to a stream.
Watch for stinging nettle since some lines the path. They have fuzzy leaves with little hairs are very irritating. If you brush against it, be sure to rinse it off to reduce the pain and itch.
Keep following the trail through the aspens and pines. It is lovely with wildflowers.
There is junction for the trail that continues to Desolation Lake and then another one right next to Dog Lake.
There are a few bridges along the path.
Dog Lake is especially beautiful this time of year!
You can walk around the lake for different views.
You may see a moose along this hike. I always love seeing babies!
Here is one more of Dog Lake.
Stats: Distance – 5.4 miles roundtrip
Approximate hiking time – 3-5 hours
Elevation gain – 1446 feet
Difficulty – Moderate
Trail – well maintained trail of dirt and rocks
Bathrooms – At Trailhead
Seasons to hike – April – October (snowshoe/microspikes in winter)
Permits needed – $10/vehicle or National Parks Pass
Purchase pass online here.
Pets allowed – No
Nearby hikes are Donut Falls, Circle-All Peak, Desolation Lake, Willow Lake Trail, and Mill B North Fork Trail.
