Bloods Lake, located just below Guardsman Pass between Big Cottonwood Canyon and the Wasatch Back, is a great destination for a family-friendly hike. At just 1.5 miles one-way on a mostly flat trail, the hike is easy enough for small children and parents who need a quick escape and exercise.
The Hike
The current trail to Bloods Lake is newly built, after Park City bought Bonanza Flat, which includes the lake. In the past, hikers had to park at Guardsman Pass just above the lake for a short (but often steep) hike. Under new management, the trailhead is now located a mile down Guardsman Pass Road at a recently constructed parking area with room for dozens of cars and a Forest Service outhouse.
You can find the trailhead on the other side of the road (careful crossing as there is always traffic). From there, the Bloods Lake Trail traverses southwest through lovely aspen tree groves. The path starts wide and mostly free of rocks as it winds above Bonanza Flat.
Soon after the aspen forest, the trail climbs up the mountainside in a series of switchbacks. Evergreen trees loom over the route here providing welcome shade on hot summer days. This section is the most difficult and steep part of the hike. There’s even rock steps built into the steepest switchbacks. But the burning of thighs is worth the effort (even if the kids are whining at this point) because Bloods Lake is at the top of the hill.
Bloods Lake
Bloods Lake is small, but makes up for its diminutive size with the spectacular scenery that surrounds it. Old growth pine trees that ring the shoreline are framed by mountains, including Point 10420 and Clayton Peak.
The lake is very popular and can get crowded. On a given summer day you’ll find people swimming in the frigid water, or just bravely wading in up to their knees. The water is a hit for kids who have earned the chance to splash around after finishing the hike up. You can even see enthusiastic boaters haul canoes, kayaks and standup paddleboards to the lake to paddle around in the high alpine. There’s also a rope swing if you’re so inclined.
The popularity of Bloods Lake means that it’s not exactly the most relaxing body of water in the Wasatch. Histocially, dogs have been allowed to swim there, but under Park City’s management, dogs are no longer allowed. The reason? This lake provides drinking water to the Girl Scout camp downstream and dog waste has contaminated the lake. Of course, while we were there, the new rules did not stop most people from allowing their pooches to jump in and chase thrown sticks or balls.
Overall, Bloods Lake is an easy hike that’s suitable for kids with a big payoff. If you’re ambitious, you may continue hiking past Bloods Lake a mile to Lackawaxen Lake. Otherwise, pack a picnic, bring your swimsuit, and enjoy Bloods Lake with the family.
Details
To get to Bloods Lake, drive up either Big Cottonwood Canyon or Marsac Avenue from Deer Valley to Guardsman Pass. You’ll find the trailhead parking 1 mile down from the pass on the Park City side.
Hiking to Bloods Lake is 3 miles round-trip and difficulty is rated easy.
Dogs are allowed on the trail, but are prohibited from swimming in Bloods Lake.