Shamrock Lake vs Amethyst Lake

[Epicure]

Hello folks!

I'm currently planning a backpacking trip to the uintahs in the middle of August for about 8 people. I've narrowed down our location to two. I've read great things about both. I'm thinking of making destinations out of shamrock lake or amethyst lake. Which one do you prefer?

I'm leaning towards shamrock right now because it seems less crowded and like it has more sun exposure than amethyst and I hear the fishing is better at shamrock.

Any insider knowledge about either of these would be greatly appreciated.

Which one has a more scenic route? Amethyst basin looks more swampy, is that true?

Thanks!!

 

[Nick]

Where is Shamrock Lake?

Maybe that answers your question. Haha.

 

[Nick]

Okay, I see now. In my opinion, comparing Amethyst, a lake near tree line at the top of a glacial cirque, to a lake like Shamrock down in the forest not near any cliffs or anything is kind of like comparing apples to oranges. If you want dramatic scenery: Amethyst. If you want solitude: Shamrock. I wouldn't be the least bit surprised to hear the fishing would be a lot better at Shamrock and the surrounding lakes. I think you'll get plenty of sun at either in the summer.

That's my .02 never having been to Shamrock though. Sorry, not very helpful.

 

[Epicure]

Okay, I see now. In my opinion, comparing Amethyst, a lake near tree line at the top of a glacial cirque, to a lake like Shamrock down in the forest not near any cliffs or anything is kind of like comparing apples to oranges. If you want dramatic scenery: Amethyst. If you want solitude: Shamrock. I wouldn't be the least bit surprised to hear the fishing would be a lot better at Shamrock and the surrounding lakes. I think you'll get plenty of sun at either in the summer.

That's my .02 never having been to Shamrock though. Sorry, not very helpful.

No, that helps. I've never been to either of them. Hopefully it won't be too crowded at Amethyst. We aren't going solely for fishing so I think we'll stick with Amethyst.

I'm pretty new to backpacking. Been on one previous trip down to Coyote Gulch (3 days, 32 miles) and countless day hikes. And now I'm planning this one. Any good advise? Is it better to plan food as a group or let everyone plan for themselves? I don't imagine everyone needs to pack fuel, stoves, etc...what are some good ratios for small backpacking stoves? 1 stove per 3 people?

Thanks for the reply Nick!

 

[Nick]

Amethyst Basin was my first Uintas backpacking trip. You won't be disappointed.

When I'm going with friends we often share stove, fuel, filters, etc. but we pack our own food. I guess if you're really into cooking up a backcountry masterpiece, it could be worthwhile, but usually we're all just eating potatoes, ramen, tuna, freeze dried meals, etc.

1 good stove for up to 4 people usually works well. The size of the pot will probably be more important, and what everyone is cooking as well. If everyone just needs hot water, it's a piece of cake. If some folks need to actually cook their dinner and others need hot water only, then it might be worthwhile to have multiple stoves.