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

Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Beat the weekend crowds

Mirror Lake Scenic Byway
Best Time
Beat the weekend crowds

Highlights
Must-see attractions
A stunning alpine escape in Utah's Uinta Mountains, offering mirror-like lake reflections, hiking, fishing, and scenic drives.
"Just a two-hour, mostly uphill drive from Salt Lake City, offers a stunning alpine escape."

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.

Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

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

Provo Falls
Provo River
A picturesque spot along the Provo River, ideal for a relaxing picnic amidst nature's beauty.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Timing is Everything
Embrace the Altitude
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
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.
Leave No Trace ♻️
Pack out everything you pack in. Keep this beautiful place pristine.
Dog-Friendly Fun 🐾
Well-behaved dogs are welcome, making it a great spot for furry friends.
Tips
from all over the internet
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.
Leave No Trace ♻️
Pack out everything you pack in. Keep this beautiful place pristine.
Dog-Friendly Fun 🐾
Well-behaved dogs are welcome, making it a great spot for furry friends.
Fishing & Kayaking 🎣
Enjoy water activities like fishing and kayaking; no motorboats allowed.
What Travellers Say
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
What People Dislike
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.
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.
Kamas is often considered the starting point for the Mirror Lake Scenic Byway. Heber Valley is also a convenient base.
Yes, the Mirror Lake Scenic Byway is a paved road and is suitable for all standard vehicles.
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.
🎫 🎫 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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
🎫 🏞️ 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.
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.
Yes, swimming is permitted in Mirror Lake, though the water is quite cold due to its alpine location.
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.
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.
📸 📸 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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
🚗 Road Trippers & Scenic Drivers
🏕️ Campers & Backpackers
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
Exploring the Mirror Lake Scenic Byway
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.
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.
Recreational Activities Galore
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.
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.
Planning Your Visit: Tips from Travelers
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. 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.
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. Finally, remember that the byway is seasonal, typically closing in the fall due to snow. Always check the latest road conditions before your trip.
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from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit