Beautiful evening stroll after dinner. #mirrorlakeny #travel #lakeplacid #lakeplacidny #i❤ny #photography #newyork #beautifulearth #travelawesome #hiking #landscapes #landscapephotography #nakedplanet #travelgram #igtravel #earthpix
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Mirror Lake Scenic Byway

4.8
·425 reviews·, United States

A stunning alpine escape in Utah's Uinta Mountains, offering mirror-like lake reflections, hiking, fishing, and scenic drives.

Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

Social content

Social

From TikTok & Reddit

Best Time

Weekday mornings

Beat the weekend crowds

CrowdLow
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Beautiful evening stroll after dinner. #mirrorlakeny #travel #lakeplacid #lakeplacidny #i❤ny #photography #newyork #beautifulearth #travelawesome #hiking #landscapes #landscapephotography #nakedplanet #travelgram #igtravel #earthpix

Mirror Lake Scenic Byway

Best Time

Weekday mornings

Beat the weekend crowds

CrowdLow
Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

A stunning alpine escape in Utah's Uinta Mountains, offering mirror-like lake reflections, hiking, fishing, and scenic drives.

4.8
(425 reviews)

"Just a two-hour, mostly uphill drive from Salt Lake City, offers a stunning alpine escape."

Vertical photo
TIP

Pack Layers! 🧥

Altitude means unpredictable weather. Bring jackets, even in summer.

Download Offline Maps 🗺️

Cell service is unreliable. Get your Mirror Lake Scenic Byway map ready beforehand.

Third hero image

Highlights

Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

Mirror Lake Reflections

Mirror Lake Reflections

Mirror Lake

Stunning alpine lake offering serene reflections of the Uinta Mountains. Perfect for photos and quiet contemplation.

Bald Mountain Pass Viewpoint

Bald Mountain Pass Viewpoint

Bald Mountain Pass

Highest paved road in Utah at 10,715 ft. Accessible viewpoint with breathtaking panoramic mountain vistas.

Provo Falls

Provo Falls

Provo River

A picturesque spot along the Provo River, ideal for a relaxing picnic amidst nature's beauty.

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Planning Your Visit

Timing is Everything

Mirror Lake Scenic Byway is a seasonal gem, typically accessible from late May/early June through October. Snow can linger, so check conditions before you go. Summer weekends can get crowded, especially at the lake itself. Consider weekdays for a more serene experience.

Embrace the Altitude

The byway reaches over 10,000 feet, so pack layers! Even in summer, temperatures can drop quickly. Stay hydrated and be aware of the effects of high altitude. Cell service can be spotty, so download maps beforehand.

Best Times

When
Weekday mornings
Why
Beat the weekend crowds
Crowd
Low
When
Late September
Why
Stunning fall foliage
Crowd
Medium
When
Early June
Why
Cooler temps, fewer crowds
Crowd
Medium

Insider Tips

from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit

A picture perfect place! Lakes in summer is so healing to the soul ❤️🙏 #Summer #mirrorlake #beutahful #saltlakecity #travel #fypシ゚viral
@eliza.tales
1.9K likes • 86K views

Pack Layers! 🧥

Altitude means unpredictable weather. Bring jackets, even in summer. InstagramReddit

Download Offline Maps 🗺️

Cell service is unreliable. Get your Mirror Lake Scenic Byway map ready beforehand. Instagram

Pack up and head to the mountains for a cool afternoon! #mirrorlake #mountaincamping #outdoorsy #camping #uintas #utah #wyoming #slc
@_mountain.mom_
1.5K likes • 58K views
Views from the highest paved road in all of Utah. ✨Save this for location reference.✨ 📍Bald Mountain Pass along the Mirror Lake Scenic byway sits at 10,715 feet in elevation and this viewpoint is just right on the side of the road making it super accessible & an easy road trip stop. 💖 #mirrorlakehighway #baldmountainpass #visitutah #sheexplores #showmeabeautifulview #wanderwomeninc #folkmagazine...
kristenmayx
887 likes • 25.5K views

Leave No Trace ♻️

Pack out everything you pack in. Keep this beautiful place pristine. TikTok

Dog-Friendly Fun 🐾

Well-behaved dogs are welcome, making it a great spot for furry friends. Reddit

LIKE - COMMENT- TAG EVERYONE!! Mirrorway Highway, officially known as Mirror Lake Highway (Utah State Route 150), is a scenic byway in northeastern Utah that offers a variety of attractions and natural landmarks. Here are some notable places you can visit along the highway: 1. **Kamas**: The starting point of Mirror Lake Highway, Kamas is a small town that serves as the gateway to the Uinta Mount...
utahfunactivities
1.1K likes • 57.6K views

Tips

from all over the internet

Pack Layers! 🧥

Altitude means unpredictable weather. Bring jackets, even in summer. InstagramReddit

Download Offline Maps 🗺️

Cell service is unreliable. Get your Mirror Lake Scenic Byway map ready beforehand. Instagram

Leave No Trace ♻️

Pack out everything you pack in. Keep this beautiful place pristine. TikTok

Dog-Friendly Fun 🐾

Well-behaved dogs are welcome, making it a great spot for furry friends. Reddit

Fishing & Kayaking 🎣

Enjoy water activities like fishing and kayaking; no motorboats allowed. TikTok+1

What Travellers Say

4.8
(425 reviews)

Reviews Summary

Visitors consistently praise the Mirror Lake Scenic Byway for its breathtaking alpine beauty, serene lake reflections, and abundant recreational activities like fishing and hiking. It's a refreshing escape from the summer heat, offering stunning mountain vistas and a peaceful natural environment. Some reviewers noted that cleanliness could be improved in certain areas and bathrooms were not always well-maintained.

"Was visiting with friends in Park City and decided to take a drive to Mirror Lake. It's a really lovely spot to stroll around. Takes maybe 30 minutes to go around the lake. Then we stopped at Provo Falls for a picnic. Super nice day!"

Robyn B

"Mirror Lake is my second favorite state park in Utah. It is very beautiful and taken care of. There’s plenty of rest areas and picnic tables all over the lake which is nice since it does get full. This is one park that I would eventually like to return to visit."

Kali Moon

"Just a two-hour, mostly uphill drive from Salt Lake City, offers a stunning alpine escape. While its winter closure means it's only accessible for part of the year, even in mid-June, the air here is wonderfully chilled, providing a refreshing break from the heat.
This awesome lake has plenty of

water sports, including boating, kayaking, paddleboarding, and fishing. There's ample parking and plenty of day picnic areas, making it easy to enjoy a relaxing day by the water. The views are absolutely breathtaking, reflecting the surrounding Uinta Mountains beautifully. Plus, it's a great spot for your furry friends, as dogs are welcome. While the campgrounds were closed during my mid-June visit, the lake itself offers more than enough to make the trip worthwhile."

Manish Khanal

What People Like

Stunning mountain scenery
Mirror-like lake reflections
Abundant outdoor activities

What People Dislike

Occasional cleanliness issues
Variable restroom conditions

Frequently Asked Questions

🚇 🗺️ Getting There

From Salt Lake City, take US-189 E towards Heber City. Continue on US-40 E and then turn onto UT-150 E, which is the Mirror Lake Scenic Byway. The drive is about 2 hours and offers stunning mountain views. TikTokInstagram

No, the byway is typically closed during winter due to heavy snowfall, usually from late October/November until late May or early June. Always check road conditions before planning your trip. InstagramReddit

Kamas is often considered the starting point for the Mirror Lake Scenic Byway. Heber Valley is also a convenient base. Instagram+1

Yes, the Mirror Lake Scenic Byway is a paved road and is suitable for all standard vehicles. Instagram

Driving the entire byway without significant stops can take about 1.5 to 2 hours. However, to truly enjoy the scenery and attractions, plan for at least half a day or a full day. TikTok

🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry

There are no entrance fees or tickets required to drive the Mirror Lake Scenic Byway itself. However, some specific recreation areas or campgrounds along the route may have day-use fees or camping fees. Reddit

Mirror Lake is an outdoor natural area and is generally accessible during daylight hours when the byway is open. Specific facilities like campgrounds or visitor centers may have their own hours. Reddit

While the byway is free to drive, day-use areas and campgrounds along the Mirror Lake Scenic Byway often have fees. These fees typically cover parking and access to amenities like picnic tables and restrooms. Reddit

Yes, there are several campgrounds available along the Mirror Lake Scenic Byway. Some are first-come, first-served, while others may require reservations. Dispersed camping is also an option in designated areas. TikTok+1

Campgrounds along the Mirror Lake Scenic Byway usually open in late May or early June and close in late September or early October, depending on snow conditions. It's best to check with the Forest Service for exact dates. Reddit

🎫 🏞️ Onsite Experience

Mirror Lake offers a variety of activities including fishing, kayaking, paddleboarding, swimming, hiking, and picnicking. The surrounding Uinta Mountains provide excellent opportunities for scenic drives and nature observation. TikTokReddit+1

Absolutely! There are numerous trails for all skill levels. The Fairy Forest Trail is an easy 0.7-mile out-and-back hike, perfect for families. More challenging hikes are also available in the High Uintas. Instagram

Yes, swimming is permitted in Mirror Lake, though the water is quite cold due to its alpine location. TikTok

Restroom facilities are available at various pull-offs, picnic areas, and campgrounds along the byway. However, they can be basic and may require some walking. Reddit

Some areas, like the viewpoint at Bald Mountain Pass and certain picnic areas, offer good accessibility. However, many trails and natural areas may be uneven or challenging. Instagram

📸 📸 Photography

Mirror Lake itself offers incredible reflections, especially during sunrise and sunset. Bald Mountain Pass provides panoramic mountain views. Many pull-offs along the byway offer unique perspectives of the Uinta Mountains and forests. TikTokInstagram

Early morning for sunrise reflections and late afternoon for golden hour light are ideal. Midday can be harsh, but the mountain scenery is always impressive. TikTok

A wide-angle lens is great for capturing the expansive mountain landscapes and lake reflections. A telephoto lens can be useful for wildlife spotting. Don't forget a tripod for those stunning sunrise/sunset shots. TikTok

The iconic mirror-like reflections on Mirror Lake are a must-capture. The views from Bald Mountain Pass are also spectacular. Keep an eye out for wildflowers in season and potential wildlife. TikTokInstagram

Drone usage may be restricted in certain areas, especially within national parks or sensitive ecological zones. Always check local regulations and obtain necessary permits before flying a drone. TikTok

For Different Travelers

Tailored advice for your travel style

👨‍👩‍👧 Families with Kids

The Mirror Lake Scenic Byway is a fantastic family destination! The Fairy Forest Trail is a short, easy hike perfect for little legs, and Mirror Lake itself is calm enough for supervised swimming and splashing. Instagram Many picnic areas, like Provo Falls, offer convenient spots for family meals amidst nature. Reddit Remember to pack plenty of snacks and drinks, and be prepared for the cooler mountain air with extra layers for the kids. The scenic drive itself is also engaging, with plenty of opportunities to spot wildlife and enjoy the changing landscapes. TikTok

🚗 Road Trippers & Scenic Drivers

The Mirror Lake Scenic Byway is a must-do for anyone who loves a good road trip. It's consistently ranked among Utah's most beautiful drives, offering stunning mountain vistas, alpine lakes, and changing scenery. Instagram+1 Make sure to stop at Bald Mountain Pass for incredible panoramic views and take your time at Mirror Lake to capture those iconic reflections. TikTokInstagram Plan for frequent stops at pull-offs to truly appreciate the grandeur of the Uinta Mountains. Remember to check the seasonal opening dates, as this route is only accessible for part of the year. Instagram

🏕️ Campers & Backpackers

The Mirror Lake area is a prime spot for camping and backpacking. Numerous campgrounds are available, offering varying amenities and levels of seclusion. TikTok+1 For a more immersive experience, consider dispersed camping in designated areas. Backpackers will find numerous trailheads leading into the High Uintas Wilderness, offering multi-day trek opportunities. Reddit Popular spots like Mirror Lake can get busy, so arriving early or opting for a weekday visit is recommended. Always practice Leave No Trace principles to protect this pristine environment. TikTok

Deep Dives

In-depth insights and expert knowledge

Exploring the Mirror Lake Scenic Byway

The Mirror Lake Scenic Byway, officially Utah State Route 150, is a breathtaking 52-mile route that winds through the Uinta Mountains, the highest mountain range in Utah. It's a popular destination for its stunning alpine scenery, abundant recreational opportunities, and cooler temperatures compared to the valleys below. The byway is a gateway to numerous lakes, trailheads, and campgrounds, making it a perfect escape for nature lovers and adventure seekers. Instagram+1

This scenic drive offers a dramatic change in landscape as you ascend from Kamas into the high country. You'll pass by diverse ecosystems, from dense forests to open meadows, with opportunities to spot wildlife like deer, elk, and various bird species. The byway is particularly famous for its namesake, Mirror Lake, which provides spectacular reflections of the surrounding peaks, especially during calm mornings. TikTok+1

Beyond Mirror Lake, the byway continues to Bald Mountain Pass, the highest paved road in Utah at over 10,700 feet, offering panoramic views. Other notable spots include Provo River Falls, various trailheads for longer hikes into the High Uintas Wilderness, and numerous picnic areas perfect for a midday break. Remember that the byway is seasonal, typically open from late May/early June to October, so always check road conditions before your visit. Instagram+1

Recreational Activities Galore

The Mirror Lake Scenic Byway is a playground for outdoor enthusiasts. Mirror Lake itself is a hub for water activities. Visitors can enjoy fishing for trout, kayaking, paddleboarding, and even swimming in its cool, clear waters. Importantly, motorized boats are not allowed on Mirror Lake, preserving its tranquil atmosphere. TikTokReddit+1

For those who prefer to stay on land, the area offers a wealth of hiking opportunities. The Fairy Forest Trail is a short, family-friendly option, while longer treks into the High Uintas Wilderness cater to more experienced backpackers. Cycling enthusiasts can also enjoy the scenic drive, though be prepared for elevation gains and potential traffic. Camping is another major draw, with numerous campgrounds available, ranging from developed sites to dispersed camping options for a more secluded experience. TikTokInstagram+1

Even if you're just passing through, the byway is perfect for a scenic drive. Numerous pull-offs and picnic areas, like Provo Falls, provide ideal spots to stop, stretch your legs, and soak in the magnificent mountain scenery. Remember to pack layers, as temperatures can change rapidly at this altitude, and always practice Leave No Trace principles to protect this beautiful environment. TikTokInstagramReddit

Planning Your Visit: Tips from Travelers

Many visitors highlight the importance of packing layers due to the significant temperature fluctuations at higher altitudes. Even on a warm summer day, evenings can become quite chilly. InstagramReddit It's also crucial to download offline maps as cell service is notoriously unreliable along the Mirror Lake Scenic Byway. This will help you navigate and find points of interest without relying on a signal. Instagram

Weekends, especially during peak summer months, can be very crowded. To avoid the hustle and bustle, consider visiting on a weekday. If you do visit on a weekend, arriving early in the morning can help you secure a good spot at popular areas like Mirror Lake. TikTok+1 Many travelers also emphasize the need to pack out everything you pack in and to be mindful of wildlife, adhering to Leave No Trace principles to preserve the natural beauty of the area. TikTok

For those planning to camp, it's advisable to check campground opening dates as they are highly dependent on snowmelt and can vary year to year. Some popular campgrounds may require reservations, so it's worth looking into this in advance. Reddit Finally, remember that the byway is seasonal, typically closing in the fall due to snow. Always check the latest road conditions before your trip. Instagram

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