Amethyst Lake is located in the High Uinta Wilderness, Utah, offering premier hiking, backpacking, fishing, and swimming experience. Tall spruce trees and old aspens, wildflowers in the summer, lush meadows, crystal clear creeks and lakes—the beauty of this place is mesmerizing. If you take a camera with you, stunning sunset pictures from Amethyst Lake will remain in your collection forever. The best season is July through October.
Amethyst Lake is accessible by I-80 from Salt Lake City to Evanston, Utah. From Evanston drive on Highway 150 South to Christmas Meadows. A 13-mi (21-km) roundtrip trail to Amethyst Lake begins at Christmas Meadows Trailhead. The first part of the trail is easy, but the path starts climbing up after the first three miles (4.8 km). Hikers will pass Lake BR-24, Ostler Lake, both of which are perfect for a picnic or a more extended stay. Amethyst Lake is in just a mile (1.6 km) from Lake BR-24. It is surrounded by a beautiful green meadow. The stunning alpine lake provides a panorama of Hayden and Ostler peaks. Many people stay for a few days since camping and fishing in this area is exceptional.
Practical info
When is the best time to visit Amethyst Lake?
The most ideal period to explore Amethyst Lake is from July through October, which are the summer months. During this season, visitors can experience mild weather, lush green meadows, and breathtaking wildflower fields. Nightly temperature fluctuations are common, so carry warm clothing and some rain gear. Show more
Where is Amethyst Lake located?
Amethyst Lake is situated in the High Uinta Wilderness becoming accessible only via a 13-mile (21 km) round-trip hike from the Christmas Meadows Trailhead. Driving from Salt Lake City via I-80 takes about two hours. Visitors must carry a map, compass, and consult with park rangers for trail conditions and weather information before beginning the journey. Show more
What type of activities are available around Amethyst Lake?
Tourists have numerous outdoor activities they could engage in around Amethyst Lake, including camping, hiking, swimming, and fishing. The campground has many campsites, which includes a group camping site for larger groups. Only anglers with fishing permits can fish Brook Trout and Cutthroat Trout in the lake. Hiking to Lake BR-24 and Ostler Lake via a trail leading from Amethyst Lake is an excellent way to explore the vicinity. Comfortable hiking boots, binoculars, and a camera are essential for this activity. Show more
When does the trail to Amethyst Lake become more challenging?
The Amethyst Lake trail is not so challenging for the first three miles (4.8 km). However, the terrain beyond that becomes rocky and steep and could be tiring for some hikers. Visitors are advised to acclimate to the altitude for a day before starting the hike. The trail can be hot and dry, so hikers must carry enough water or filtration systems to last them the trip. Show more
Are there any other stunning lakes that hikers can visit on the way to Amethyst Lake?
Two other beautiful lakes are worth visiting on the way to Amethyst Lake, namely, Ostler Lake, located about two miles (3.2 km) from Lake BR-24, perfect for fishing, and Lake BR-24, situated approximately one mile (1.6 km) from Amethyst Lake. The trail system leading to both lakes gives hikers the opportunity to enjoy breathtaking scenes both lakes offer, which are perfect for photography enthusiasts. Show more
