Difficulty: Moderate ◼︎
Length: 3.5 miles round trip
Elevation Gain: 1,600 feet
Dog Friendly: Yes
Trailhead coordinates (copy + paste): 40.5490, -111.5990
Directions: You should not attempt to drive here in anything but a Jeep or RZR. If you don't believe it, take a look at the last photo below. Whether you drive up AF Canyon from the American Fork side or the Midway side, you'll be on at least 15 miles of rough road each way. We drove here in a truck and saw people in SUVs and even some small cars, but I'm sure every last one left with physical and emotional damage. Follow the coordinates and expect to lose service. There are two river crossings on the last 0.5 miles of the road before the trailhead, but you can easily choose to pull over and park early to avoid them. Better to flood your shoes than your engine! This road is seasonal and can only be accessed from mid/late May through early/mid November. Check UDOT's traffic website for current status.
I first saw Pittsburg Lake from the top of Devil's Castle, and spent the rest of the day wondering how anyone would ever get there. I can now say that I know, and that it is definitely worth the trek (when made in the right vehicle). With great views of AF Twin Peaks and Snowbird's Mineral Basin, the trail makes its way up at a decent incline, but is fairly short and well-defined. Take the time to wander around the lake and explore some of the old mining relics, which are the reason this area has roads in the first place. Plan to make a day of it and enjoy the journey.
