Our August Local GOAT adventure took us up Little Cottonwood Canyon to the stunning alpine waters of Red Pine Lake—and what a day it was!
The trail greeted us with cool canyon air and steady shade before opening up to sweeping views of jagged peaks and wildflower-filled meadows. Step by step, our group of adventurous women made the climb together, encouraging one another through switchbacks and pausing for water breaks that always seemed to double as laughter and story breaks.
When we reached the lake, the reward was immediate: sparkling blue water nestled against dramatic granite cliffs. The air was chilly, so many of us stretched out on the warm rocks and soaked in the views. A few trail snacks, shared stories, and a whole lot of smiles made the hike to the lake one to remember.
On the way back down, a smaller portion of the group took a quick detour to Gloria Falls, a hidden gem tucked just off the main trail. The short jaunt was rewarded with rushing water cascading down a rocky cliffside, framed by wild greenery. It was the perfect bonus stop to cap off an already magical day in the canyon.
As always, our Local GOATs are about more than just the destination—it’s about the community we build on the trail. Red Pine Lake gave us a backdrop for connection, laughter, and that unbeatable post-hike glow.
We left the trail a little tired, a lot refreshed, and reminded of why we lace up our boots month after month.
