Need a fast hike in the high alpine that’s kid friendly, has amazing scenery, and ends at a gorgeous jewel of a mountain lake surrounded by wildflowers? Cecret Lake in Alta’s Albion Basin has all that and more. All you need to do is lace up your hiking shoes, grab a pack, some water, a snack, and start walking.
Cecret Lake is quite possibly one of the most popular hikes in the Central Wasatch. The short distance from trailhead to destination, wide, well marked trail, an explosion of wildflowers in the summer, the chance to see moose, deer and other creatures, and a doesn’t-get-much-better-than-this place to kick back and enjoy some lunch by the lake side all combine to make a perfect storm of visitation. But if you time your visit right, it is possible to have the place to yourself.
The hike to Cecret Lake is only 1.2 miles round trip with a small elevation gain of around 450 feet. But what it lacks in challenge, it more than makes up for in visual splendor. July and August are usually the best time to make the trip if you want to see the full bloom of Albion Basin’s famous wildflowers.
From the trailhead at the Albion Basin campground, you’ll find signs that lead the way along with plaques detailing the area’s geology, botany and history. A very wide, well maintained trail is easy to follow and leaves do doubt about which way to go despite the myriad side trails that branch off in all directions. (However, these side trails lead to other cool places and even better wildflower vistas that are worth exploring.)
After a short distance and a few minor stream crossings, the path begins its only steep section, though steep is a relative term here. A few switchbacks go up the side of a hill that ends on a shelf of exposed rock where the basin that holds Cecret Lake was carved long ago. When the water is reached, try to find a spot to sit, and take in the landscape from Devil’s Castle, Sugarloaf Peak, and Cecret Lake nestled below.
If you’re a good hiker and want to continue beyond the lake, an ascent of Sugarloaf Peak is highly recommended and isn’t terribly difficult if you’re in shape and are looking for an even better view.
To get to the trailhead in Albion Basin, drive up Little Cottonwood Canyon road (Highway 210) all the way to Alta. Continue past the resort to a guard shack where friendly volunteers will give you a map and advice. From here, drive up the dirt road to the campground where there is a parking lot with a few dozen spots. This lot can fill up fast, especially on weekends. If you can’t find parking, go back the way you came and leave your car at a secondary lot that has a pit toilet. From here, the hike will be a bit longer as you have to walk up the road to the trailhead.
In all, Cecret Lake in Albion Basin may be crowded, but you’ll find it to be ideal for a short hike to take children, seniors, or out-of-towners who you’re trying to impress with Utah’s incomparable beauty and access just a few minutes from the city.
this trail is indeed a very accessible one and is the perfect for families and seniors to discovers the wonders of Alta’s amazing scenery