Payson Lake Loop is a paved trail through the aspens and pines around the largest of the Payson Lakes in the Nebo Loop. 

The Nebo Loop winter gate makes it inaccessible from about November – May, but is a gorgeous place to go in the summer and fall!

In the fall the campground is closed, so you are more likely to have the lake to yourself or only see a couple other people.

There are nice views of the lake frequently with hardly any elevation change, so this is a nice nature walk for all abilities. There are also picnic tables and viewing benches along the way.

There are a few informational panels along the Payson Lake Loop.

The Payson Lakes are also a great place to kayak, fish or play in the water. For more about that and the other lakes, click on this post of the Payson Lakes.

This is also a wonderful stop along the Nebo Loop Scenic Drive. It’s impressive anytime, but especially gorgeous in the fall!

Stats: Distance – 1.0 miles roundtrip path around reservoir, 20 yards from parking lot
Approximate hiking time – 30-60 minutes
Elevation gain – 26 feet
Difficulty – Easy
Trail – paved
Bathrooms – At Trailhead
Seasons to hike – May-October 
Permits needed – $10 day use per car or National Parks Pass
Pets allowed – Yes

https://maps.google.com/maps?q=Big%20East%20Reservoir%20Payson&t=m&z=10&output=embed&iwloc=near

Other nearby hikes are Grotto Falls, Devil’s Kitchen, Salt Creek Waterfall and Escalante Cross.