Approach
To reach the Lofty Lake/Pass Lake Trailhead, drive Highway 150 32 miles north, and east of Kamas or 46 miles south of Evanston. There is a sign that marks the trailhead (west side of the Highway).
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Route Description
From the trailhead (at 10,100 feet elevation), find the trail heading west. There is a sign pointing the way to Lofty Lake. After heading west a short distance, there is a junction. The trail to the left (east) heads back to Highway 150 just accross from Pass Lake, so turn right. Continue west from the junction and reach another junction after just a short distance. There is a sign at the junction. Turn right and take the Lofty Lake Trail. After another .5 miles, Reids Meadow (just below 10,000 feet elevation) is reached. There is a spectacular view of Reids Peak and Bald Mountain from this meadow. From Reids Meadow, the trail climbs uphill to the north. There are a few steep sections before the trail climbs to Kamas Lake (10,400 feet elevation).
Kamas Lake is very beautiful with spectacular ridges rising from the lake. From Kamas Lake, the trail heads north to "Cutthroat Pass" (10,700 feet elevation). There are good views from here of Cutthroat Lake located below and north of the pass. There are also good views of the High Uintas Wilderness to the northeast. This is where you will leave the trail. From the pass, leave the trail and head up the very steep slope to the west. There is some scrambling and boulder-hopping required before reaching the summit. Near the summit is often a snowfield that blocks the route. This route is easy, and an ice axe can be of some use well into July, though most could do without. Round trip distance is about 4.8 miles.
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Essential Gear
A good pair of boots is needed.
Miscellaneous Info
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