Mirror Lake Scenic Byway
A breathtaking seasonal drive through Utah's Uinta Mountains, offering alpine lakes, stunning vistas, and abundant outdoor recreation.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Clear skies, fewer crowds
Mirror Lake Scenic Byway
Best Time
Clear skies, fewer crowds
Highlights
Must-see attractions
A breathtaking seasonal drive through Utah's Uinta Mountains, offering alpine lakes, stunning vistas, and abundant outdoor recreation.
"One of the best drives in Utah, with amazing alpine lakes and rivers full of hungry fish!"
🚗 Check Road Conditions
The byway is seasonal! Snow can linger. Always check UDOT for closures before you go.
🦟 Pack Bug Spray
Mosquitoes can be intense, especially near water. Don't forget repellent for a comfortable trip!
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
Bald Mountain Pass Viewpoint
Along the Byway
Highest paved road viewpoint in Utah, offering accessible, breathtaking mountain vistas right from the roadside.
Fairy Forest Trail
Mile Marker 17
An easy, short hike leading to a magical forest, perfect for families and nature lovers. Watch for changing water levels.
Provo River Falls
Along the Byway
Discover lovely, cascading waterfalls along the Provo River, a picturesque stop on your scenic journey.
Mirror Lake Itself
End of the Byway
The namesake lake offers stunning alpine scenery, fishing, and a peaceful retreat at the end of your drive.
+1Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Timing Your Scenic Drive
Embrace the Outdoors
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
🚗 Check Road Conditions
The byway is seasonal! Snow can linger. Always check UDOT for closures before you go.
🦟 Pack Bug Spray
Mosquitoes can be intense, especially near water. Don't forget repellent for a comfortable trip!
🥾 Wear Sturdy Shoes
Many stops involve short hikes. Comfortable footwear is a must for exploring trails and viewpoints.
📸 Capture the Views
The scenery is incredible! Keep your camera ready for stunning mountain vistas and alpine lakes.
Tips
from all over the internet
🚗 Check Road Conditions
The byway is seasonal! Snow can linger. Always check UDOT for closures before you go.
🦟 Pack Bug Spray
Mosquitoes can be intense, especially near water. Don't forget repellent for a comfortable trip!
🥾 Wear Sturdy Shoes
Many stops involve short hikes. Comfortable footwear is a must for exploring trails and viewpoints.
📸 Capture the Views
The scenery is incredible! Keep your camera ready for stunning mountain vistas and alpine lakes.
🎣 Bring Fishing Gear
Alpine lakes are stocked with fish. Anglers report great success with dry flies! [^Review]
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors consistently praise the Mirror Lake Scenic Byway as one of Utah's most beautiful drives, highlighting its stunning alpine scenery, abundant lakes, and excellent fishing opportunities. While the drive itself is a major draw, the accessible hiking trails and viewpoints make it a well-rounded outdoor destination. Some note the limited dining options and the seasonal nature of the road as minor drawbacks.
"One of the best drives in Utah. Plenty of places to stop & hike, sight see, bike... anything including just sit and look at the natural beauty in Utah."
Meighanne Loch
"All along this highway are amazing alpine lakes and rivers/creeks full of hungry and willing fish. I have never caught so many fish on dry flies in my life."
James Jones
"Just so incredibly beautiful"
Stephanie Hullings
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
The Mirror Lake Scenic Byway, also known as Highway 150, is located in the Uinta Mountains of Utah. It typically starts near Kamas, Utah, and winds its way east through the mountains. It's a popular route for road trips and connects various recreational areas.
No, the Mirror Lake Scenic Byway is a seasonal road. It's usually open from late May or early June through October, depending on snow conditions. Always check the Utah Department of Transportation (UDOT) website for current road status before planning your trip.
Many visitors enjoy driving the entire length of the byway, stopping at various viewpoints and trailheads. It's also popular for cycling, hiking, fishing, and camping.
Yes, key points like the Fairy Forest Trail are marked around mile marker 17. Bald Mountain Pass is another significant, easily accessible viewpoint along the route.
Yes, the Mirror Lake Scenic Byway is a paved road and is suitable for all standard vehicles. However, be prepared for mountain driving conditions, including winding roads and potential elevation changes.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
There is no general admission fee to drive the Mirror Lake Scenic Byway itself. However, some trailheads or recreation areas along the byway may require a Forest Service day-use pass or have associated camping fees.
The byway is generally accessible during daylight hours when it is open seasonally (typically late May/early June to October). There are no set 'opening' or 'closing' times for the road itself, but it is impassable when covered in snow.
Some popular trailheads and picnic areas along the Mirror Lake Scenic Byway may require a recreation pass, such as a Uinta-Wasatch-Cache National Forest pass. It's advisable to check with the Forest Service or look for signage at your intended stops.
Yes, there are designated campgrounds and opportunities for dispersed camping along the Mirror Lake Highway. Dispersed camping requires following specific Forest Service regulations.
Mirror Lake is a popular destination within the Uinta-Wasatch-Cache National Forest. While there isn't a specific entrance fee for the lake, you may need a recreation pass for parking or day-use at facilities near the lake.
🎫 🏞️ Onsite Experience
Popular trails include the Fairy Forest Trail (easy, 0.7 miles roundtrip), sections of the Highline Trail for more challenging hikes, and various paths around the numerous alpine lakes.
Swimming is generally permitted in Mirror Lake and many of the other alpine lakes, though water temperatures can be very cold even in summer. Always check local regulations and be aware of safety.
You might spot deer, elk, marmots, various bird species, and if you're very lucky, perhaps even a moose. Remember to keep a safe distance and never feed wildlife.
Absolutely! The byway offers stunning photographic opportunities with its alpine lakes, mountain peaks, forests, and waterfalls. Bald Mountain Pass is a particularly iconic photo spot.
Yes, there are numerous designated picnic areas and pull-offs with beautiful views along the Mirror Lake Scenic Byway, offering perfect spots for a scenic lunch.
🍽️ 🎣 Food & Dining
Dining options are very limited directly on the byway. It's best to pack a picnic or plan to eat in towns like Kamas before or after your drive.
Pack plenty of snacks, water, and a picnic lunch. Consider items that are easy to eat on the go or at a scenic overlook.
Yes, the alpine lakes and rivers are popular for fishing. You'll need a valid Utah fishing license. Anglers often have success with dry flies. [^Review]
The closest significant town with grocery stores is Kamas, Utah, located at the western end of the byway. It's recommended to stock up before you begin your drive.
Many pull-offs offer stunning views perfect for a picnic. Look for designated picnic areas with tables, or find a scenic spot by a lake or river.
📸 📸 Photography
Bald Mountain Pass offers panoramic mountain views. Provo River Falls provides beautiful waterfall shots. Mirror Lake itself is iconic, and many smaller alpine lakes offer serene reflections.
Early morning and late afternoon (golden hours) offer the best light for landscape photography, minimizing harsh shadows and creating beautiful colors.
No, a smartphone camera is perfectly capable of capturing the beauty. However, a DSLR or mirrorless camera with a wide-angle lens can enhance landscape shots.
Generally, no specific photography restrictions apply to public areas. However, always be respectful of the natural environment and any posted signage.
Landscape photography is ideal, capturing the vast mountain scenery, alpine lakes, and forests. Wildlife photography is also possible if you're patient and lucky.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
Many of the pull-offs offer safe, accessible spots for kids to stretch their legs and enjoy the mountain air. Pack plenty of snacks and drinks, as dining options are scarce. Consider bringing a frisbee or ball for open areas. Swimming in the lakes can be a fun, albeit chilly, activity for adventurous kids. Ensure they have appropriate footwear for uneven terrain and consider bringing water shoes. The drive itself offers plenty of 'wow' moments with stunning views that even young children can appreciate.
🚗 Road Trippers & Day-Trippers
+1 Plan for at least half a day to fully enjoy the drive and a few key stops. Remember to fill up your gas tank before you start, as services are limited. Consider downloading offline maps, as cell service can be spotty. The accessible viewpoints like Bald Mountain Pass make it easy to experience the grandeur of the Uinta Mountains without extensive hiking.
Pack a picnic to maximize your time enjoying the scenery rather than searching for food.🎣 Anglers & Nature Enthusiasts
Nature enthusiasts will be captivated by the diverse flora and fauna. Keep an eye out for wildlife such as deer, elk, and various bird species. The serene beauty of the alpine environment, with its clear lakes and majestic peaks, provides a tranquil escape for anyone looking to connect with nature.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
Navigating the Mirror Lake Scenic Byway
Key stops include Bald Mountain Pass, the highest paved road viewpoint in Utah, offering breathtaking panoramic views right from the roadside.
Further along, you'll find trailheads for hikes like the Fairy Forest Trail, an easy 0.7-mile out-and-back path perfect for families. The byway also passes by the picturesque Provo River Falls and culminates at the namesake Mirror Lake, a beautiful spot for fishing and enjoying the serene mountain environment. +1Beyond the main attractions, the byway is dotted with numerous other alpine lakes and trailheads, offering endless opportunities for exploration. Whether you're interested in a leisurely drive, a challenging hike, or a peaceful fishing trip, the Mirror Lake Scenic Byway provides a memorable mountain escape. Remember to pack layers, as mountain weather can change rapidly, and bring insect repellent, especially near water sources.
Outdoor Adventures on the Byway
Fishing is another popular pastime. The numerous lakes and streams along the byway are well-stocked and known for producing good catches, especially on dry flies. A valid Utah fishing license is required. [^Review] For those who enjoy cycling, the byway offers a challenging yet rewarding ride with incredible scenery. Cycling the Mirror Lake Scenic Byway is a popular activity, though be prepared for elevation gains and mountain driving conditions.
Camping is also a significant attraction, with both developed campgrounds and dispersed camping options available. Dispersed camping requires adherence to Forest Service regulations, so be sure to research these beforehand.
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from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit