Wall Lake Loop

Wall Lake is known for its cliff jumping and is surrounded by a ton of other well known lakes in the western Uinta Mountains. The Crystal Lake Trailhead gives people a ton of options to enjoy so many different routes and possible hikes of many varying lengths. The Wall Lake Loop gives people a great overview of this area and takes you along Cliff and Clyde Lakes during your journey. The trail does not gain much elevation, so it can be enjoyed by the whole family, including the hairy four-legged members. There are some stunning east-facing views of Notch Peak over Wall Lake from the west end of the loop, but keep in mind this place is rife with mosquitos and mayflies during the early summer months. Summer also happens to be prime wildflower season, so you might just need to grin and bear it to see the best flowers. Throw on long sleeves, grab the bug spray, and consider a head net if you go in June to see the Indian paintbrush, because the bugs really are that bad.

The bugs die off later in the summer, and while most of the flowers are gone by then, it's still a great hike to enjoy with a ton of lakes. Keep an eye out for moose, which are common in the area. Backcountry camping is allowed in the Uinta Mountains, but make sure to follow all regulations about camping near bodies of water. If you are doing the loop counter-clockwise, head north from the trailhead, turn west once you pass Wall Lake, and head south once you pass Clyde Lake. Pass along Cliff Lake and then head east again once on the Crystal/Island Lake Trail. There are well marked metal signs along the whole journey.