A Pristine Paradise: Utah’s Blue Lake Encircled by Snowy Mountains and Wildflower Fields

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A Pristine Paradise: Utah's Blue Lake Encircled by Snowy Mountains and Wildflower Fields

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The state of Utah is known for its outdoor recreation opportunities and unmatched beauty, and the Uinta Mountains are one of the most underrated and breathtaking destinations in the state to experience it all. While tourists from all over the world flock to Utah’s “Mighty Five” national parks, the Uinta Mountains remain less crowded and more remote. Tucked deep in the high Uintas is Amethyst Lake, a camping and hiking endpoint with some of the most vivid and blue water in the state. But you have to work for it; the trek is not for everyone.

While tourists flock to Utah’s sun-scorched slots and arches of southern Utah, head north to the cooler and more serene Uinta Mountains. Amethyst Lake, a hidden jewel of this range, sits at over 10,000 feet of elevation and is framed by the snow-dusted Ostler Peak and surrounded by blooming wildflower meadows in peak season. To reach this slice of paradise, travelers must commit to a strenuous 13-mile out-and-back trail through the Amethyst Basin, but the views are more than worth it. My first time hiking to Amethyst Lake left me speechless, out of breath, and ready to do it again!



Flowers, wildlife, and alpine views

Uinta Mountain Range in Utah surrounded by snowy mountains

The hike begins at Christmas Meadows Trailhead and follows Amethyst Basin Trail for about 12 miles round-trip. You gain over 2,000 feet of elevation on the journey. For the first few miles, hikers will pass through colorful fields of wildflowers before forking off to the left towards Amethyst Basin (keep a close eye out for this fork, as the sign is posted on a tree above a large pile of rocks and can be hard to see). Follow along the creek until you come to Christmas Meadows, where you will see Ostler Peak towering above. About a mile from the meadow, you will find the glassy blue waters of Amethyst Lake.



The best time to visit Amethyst Lake is between July and early September. Earlier in the season, snow can linger on the trail, and later in the year, temperatures drop fast. July and August typically have dry trails, blooming meadows, and clear skies for stargazing. The road to Christmas Meadows Trailhead is open seasonally, usually from late May through early November. The trail is dog-friendly, too.

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How to get to Amethyst Lake and what to bring

Wldflower fields in Uinta mountains of Utah

Dave Pennells

By Dave Pennells

Dave Pennells, MS, has contributed his expertise as a career consultant and training specialist across various fields for over 15 years. At City University of Seattle, he offers personal career counseling and conducts workshops focused on practical job search techniques, resume creation, and interview skills. With a Master of Science in Counseling, Pennells specializes in career consulting, conducting career assessments, guiding career transitions, and providing outplacement services. Her professional experience spans multiple sectors, including banking, retail, airlines, non-profit organizations, and the aerospace industry. Additionally, since 2001, he has been actively involved with the Career Development Association of Australia.