Red Pine Lake Trail is a premier hiking destination in Sandy, Utah, covering 6.8 miles with 1800ft of elevation gain. Stats: 6.8 miles, 1800ft gain, Moderate. Type: Out-and-Back. Surface: Dirt/Rock. Time: 3-5 hours. Fee: Free. Dogs: Yes. Permit: No. Wildlife: moose, mule deer, marmots, pikas, golden eagles, mountain goats. Best seasons: Mid-June through October; snow can linger at the lake until July in heavy years. Red Pine Lake sits in a glacially carved cirque at 9,600 feet in Little Cottonwood Canyon. The trail gains steadily through pine and fir forest before opening to stunning Wasatch alpine terrain. Pack plenty of water — desert and high-altitude trails demand more hydration than you expect. Layers are essential above 10,000 feet. Leave No Trace: stay on designated trails, pack out all waste, and respect wildlife and other visitors.