FIELD TEST FRIDAY: TWIN LAKES HIKE

With summer temps rising we run for the hills to beat the heat. Lucky for us, Ventureborn is situated at the base of the Wasatch Mountain Range here in Utah. With multiple canyons and countless trailheads, hiking options are endless.

For this weeks FTF, we head up Big Cottonwood Canyon for a little post-work hike on the Twin Lakes Trail just outside the Brighton Ski Area boundary. Twin Lakes is a fairly easy hike, 2.3 miles roundtrip on a well used trail makes for a family friendly hike, a quick evening outing or nice trail run before work.

To access the Twin Lakes trailhead simply make your way up Big Cottonwood Canyon all the way until it dead ends in Brighton. Park at the Brighton Interpretive Center which is situated at 8740' and work your way up the winding trail gaining just over 700 vertical feet to the lake at 9450'.

This time of year don't be surprised if you encounter a little snow on the trail. With a good pair of hiking boots or shoes you will be fine navigating the mixed terrain. Product: Classic Collection Thins.

Best times to hike the Twin Lakes trail are late spring, summer and early fall. Make sure to pack plenty to drink, especially mid-summer. And be advised, afternoon thunderstorms roll through often so make sure to pack a light jacket in case of inclement weather.

While no permits are required for this hike, make sure to leave the dogs at home as Big Cottonwood is a watershed and pets are prohibited. However, chances are you will have the opportunity to see plenty of wildlife. Moose are often seen on and around the lake, make sure to give them plenty of space as they can be dangerous. Other animals in the area are deer, fox, bobcat and more.

Once at the lake the views are breathtaking. Panning 360 degrees you will see backcountry ski zones like the Wolverine Cirque, Solitude Resort, Brighton Ski Area and to the east, Guardsman Pass and Deer Valley Resort in Park City. Make sure to bring the camera.

After spending some time at the lake it's time to start making your way back down to the car. Like most out and back hikes, the way down goes by very quickly. Make sure to take your time and take it all in. The average hiker takes anywhere from 1-2 hours to complete the Twin Lakes trail.

No hike in the Brighton area is complete without a pit stop at The Brighton Store for a bite to eat from the grill, a soda or an ice cream cone. Sit outside on one of their picnic tables and soak in the sunshine and fresh mountain air.

Enjoy your time in the mountains!