Red Lake Hike Nebo Loop

Payson Canyon boasts many hiking trails. One of these hikes is the Red Lake Hike. This hike is 1.75 miles one way and is an incline the majority of the way. My son, age 5, completed the hike by himself. He was very tired by the time we reached the lake. The lake is nestled up in the mountains and we were able to find a couple of places to camp around the lake. Be sure to take plenty of water, snacks and sunscreen.

The trail begins on a nice trail that winds through the maple trees. After descending a bit and crossing a river with the strategically placed plank, the trail once again inclines. You will soon notice where the pipeline was laid into place. Follow it to the right until the trail becomes visible again on the left. You will know you are on the right track if you pass the remains of an old car. The trail continues on through aspens and conifers and eventually to red lake.

The Stats:

sits at 6972 feet

3.5 miles round trip

GPS coordinates:

Degrees Minutes Seconds:
Latitude: 39-56'44'' N
Longitude: 111-42'30'' W

Decimal Degrees:
Latitude: 39.9455111
Longitude: -111.7082613

To Get There: get off I-15 at Payson Exit 254, turn south onto Payson Main Street (State Route 77). Continue south until Main Street meets 100 North. Turn left and travel east to 600 East, then turn right, and follow this road south to the entrance to Payson Canyon and the beginning of the Nebo Scenic Loop. Continue up the canyon turning off at Maple Bench and drive past the campground. Take the first left on the gravel road and park near the restrooms. The trail skirts the fence.