HIKING BRIGHTON
The road ends, the trail begins. Hike through meadows, climb to quiet lakes and take in views that stop time. However far you go, the mountains meet you there.
BRIGHTON HIKING TRAILS
SILVER LAKE LOOP
Difficulty: Easy
Length: 0.9 mi
Elev gain: 55 ft
Time: ~20 min
A gentle lakeside stroll perfect for families and visitors of all ages. With a portion of boardwalk and easy terrain, it’s a scenic way to dip into alpine air without the effort. Ideal for casual photos or a peaceful pause by the water.
DOG LAKE
Difficulty: Moderate
Length: ~2.2 mi
Elev gain: 600–640 ft
Time: ~1–1.5 hr
A quiet trail weaving through forest and wildflower meadows until you reach a tucked-away lake among the trees. Seasonal transitions bring mud, lingering snow or buzzing bugs—so be prepared. A peaceful escape with a medium effort.
TWIN LAKES
Difficulty: Moderate
Length: 2.3–2.5 mi
Elev gain: ~720 ft
Time: ~1.5 hr
This route climbs through pines and open slopes to a dammed alpine lake set beneath rocky ridgelines. With a nice mix of elevation and scenery, it's a favorite when you want something solid but not all-day.
LAKE MARY
Difficulty: Moderate
Length: ~2.3–2.6 mi
Elev gain: ~800 ft
Time: ~1.5–2 hr
One of Brighton’s most iconic destinations. This steady climb rewards with a classic alpine lake framed by wildflowers and ridges. It’s a slice of high-country beauty in under two hours.
LAKE MARTHA
Difficulty: Moderate
Length: ~3.5–3.8 mi
Elev gain: ~1,200 ft
Time: ~2–2.5 hr
Continuing past Lake Mary, this path leads to a calmer alpine basin that sees fewer visitors. The hike gradually climbs and rewards with quiet lakeside terrain and mountain views—a great intro into the deeper alpine setting.
LAKE CATHERINE
Difficulty: Moderate
Length: ~4.4–4.6 mi
Elev gain: ~1,200–1,300 ft
Time: ~2.5–3 hr
A step beyond Lake Martha, this hike delivers a high-elevation basin surrounded by rocky peaks. Expect richer terrain variety of meadows, forest, ridgelines and expansive views that make the climb worth every step.
SUNSET PEAK
Difficulty: Moderate to Hard
Length: ~5.8–6.2 mi
Elev gain: ~1,300–1,975 ft
Time: ~3.5–4 hr
This ridge trail unfolds past Lakes Mary and Catherine before finishing at a rocky summit with sweeping 360-degree views. With exposed sections and loose gravel, poles are helpful. Trek early to catch alpenglow or stay late for dusk that lives up to the name.
MOUNT WOLVERINE
Difficulty: Hard
Length: ~5–6.9 mi
Elev gain: ~1,450–2,112 ft
Time: ~3–4 hr
A tougher climb that threads lakes and exposed ridges, ending nearly at 10,700 ft. Some scrambling and snow patches likely. The fewer crowds at the top make every effort worth it for the sweeping mountain lookouts.
LAKES LOOP
Difficulty: Moderate
Length: ~7 mi
Elev gain: ~1,800 ft
Time: ~4–4.5 hr
This scenic loop stitches together all six alpine lakes: Silver, Twin, Mary, Martha, Catherine and Dog. Expect rolling terrain and endless views—it’s a full morning hike well-suited to those craving variety and lakeside beauty.
PEAKS LOOP
Difficulty: Hard
Length: ~7.5–7.8 mi
Elev gain: ~2,300–2,700 ft
Time: ~4–6 hr
This full-day ridge circuit tags six major peaks — Clayton, Wolverine, Tuscarora, Sunset, Pioneer and Millicent — via a high-alpine traverse above Brighton. Expect steep climbs, rocky terrain, exposed ridgelines and evolving terrain underfoot. The payoff is big: sweeping views of lakes and surrounding peaks throughout.
BEFORE YOU VISIT
Brighton is in the Salt Lake watershed, dogs are not allowed. We appreciate you helping us keep it clean and wild.
Events & Activities
There’s more to summer at Brighton than big rides and big views. From live music to Sunday flea markets, the vibe here is all-time whether you’re on or off the trail.
Cooking in the Cottonwoods
Join Executive Chef Jeff Sanich for a hands-on culinary experience. Each class features a new theme, guided prep and a full meal with drink pairings.
Campfire Cookouts
Experience summer evenings done right. Enjoy chef-led appetizers, fire-grilled entrees, decadent desserts, and a full bar—perfect for date nights or sharing stories with someone new.
Majestic Scramble
Not every mountain adventure needs to be extreme. This 2K is short, sweet, and family-friendly—perfect for tiny legs, proud parents, and anyone who loves a good excuse to run around in the mountains.
BCC Flea
Every Sunday, the Big Cottonwood Canyon Flea Market blends vintage goods, handmade art, and laid-back mountain energy into a one-of-a-kind Brighton experience.
Beats, Brews & BBQ
Kick back with live music, cold drinks and mountain BBQ every weekend at on the Alpine Rose deck 11am - 5pm. Saturdays & Sundays all summer long.
Mountain Dining
No need to head down the canyon. The Alpine Rose and Blind Miner have what you need to keep the day rolling between laps or market stops.
Get a Head Start
Scenic Lift Ticket
Wildflowers, ridge lines and wide-open views — Brighton’s scenic lift rides are summer at its best. Perfect for photographers, nature lovers or anyone looking to take it all in with a single, unforgettable ride.
$15
Majestic Season Pass
Catch a ride to the top all summer long. Hike trails, play disc golf, take a flow trail or just take in the views—this pass brings the mountains to you.