Highline Trail Day Hike to Scudder Lake
High Uintas Wilderness (Highline Trailhead at Hayden Pass)
This out-and-back hike offers a shorter introduction to the Uinta Highline Trail, following rolling, rocky terrain to Scudder Lake. Forested stretches alternate with areas affected by wildfire, giving the landscape a mix of standing trees, open views, and recovering vegetation. Expect a lake destination and some uphill walking on the return.
- Difficulty
- Easy to moderate. Rocky footing and high elevation can make the hike more demanding.
- Distance
- About 4–4.5 miles round trip to Scudder Lake
- Elevation gain
- Approximately 600 feet of total climbing, including uphill sections on the return
- Typical time
- About 2–3 hours of hiking; allow additional time for breaks and exploring the lake
- Water
- Bring drinking water for the entire hike. If refilling from natural sources, filter or otherwise treat the water.
- Dogs
- Dogs allowed. Keep them leashed around other hikers, horses, and wildlife, and follow posted restrictions.
- Weather & terrain exposure
- Forest, rocky trail, and open areas, including sections affected by past wildfire. Mountain storms and sudden temperature changes are possible.
- Cell service
- Do not expect reliable service. Download maps and directions before leaving town.
More essential trail information
- Start at the correct trailhead. Use the Highline Trailhead at Hayden Pass on Mirror Lake Highway. Starting at Mirror Lake changes the route and mileage.
- Save energy for the return. The trail descends away from the trailhead, so reaching the lake does not mean the hardest walking is behind you.
- Know your turnaround point. Download the route to Scudder Lake and check junctions carefully. The main Highline Trail continues far into the wilderness.
- Prepare for high elevation. The trailhead is above 10,000 feet. Start at a comfortable pace and allow extra time.
- Summer can still bring winter weather. Snow, hail, and freezing temperatures are possible in the high Uintas. Carry warm layers and a waterproof jacket, even when it is hot in town.
- Check snow and road conditions. Winter snow can linger into summer, and Mirror Lake Highway closes seasonally. An open highway does not guarantee a snow-free trail.
- Watch the weather throughout the hike. Start early and turn back if storms develop. Morning conditions are not guaranteed safe.
- Use care in burned areas. Avoid lingering beneath dead or damaged trees, especially when it is windy.
- Expect horses. Give riders room and ask where they would like you to stand while they pass.
- Check parking and fee requirements. A recreation pass or accepted federal pass is needed at this trailhead. Park only where permitted.
Longer Day-Hike Option: Wyman and Packard Lakes
Approximately 8 miles round trip · Moderate to strenuous · Allow about 4–6 hours, plus stops
Follow the Highline Trail to the signed junction for the lake trails, then follow your downloaded route toward Wyman and Packard Lakes. This outing adds substantial walking beyond Scudder Lake. Carry additional food and water, set a turnaround time, and reserve energy for the uphill return.
Naturalist Basin is a substantially longer outing and requires its own route plan; do not treat it as a quick extension.
Current weather & forecast near Highline Trail Day Hike to Scudder Lake
Loading weather…