Nothing quite soothes the soul like a deep breath of clean mountain air while the sun shines on your face—and no cell signal. Look no further for a restorative escape than the Uinta-Wasatch-Cache National Forest.
Just a short drive east of Park City, the Mirror Lake Scenic Highway stretches from Kamas to the Wyoming border. This 42-mile route winds through stands of aspens that give way to dense pine forests and alpine meadows, past glittering lakes and soaring mountain peaks. At its crest, the highway climbs over Bald Mountain Pass at 10,715 feet, making it one of the highest roads in the state—and one of the most stunning.
If you’re looking for a cool breeze in the heat of summer, the Mirror Lake Highway is a gateway to unforgettable high-alpine recreation with endless opportunities for summer adventure.
What to Do Along the Mirror Lake Scenic Highway
The Mirror Lake Highway is an outdoor lover’s dream with something for everyone. Pick up your recreation pass before heading into the forest–it’s $10 for a 3-day pass. Take a drive along the highway, stop at viewpoints like Upper Provo Falls, and stroll around the boardwalk at Mirror Lake. Or explore the many activities along this scenic stretch:
Hiking & Backpacking
With dozens of trailheads tucked along the route, hiking is the star attraction here. From quick, family-friendly strolls to multi-day alpine treks, the options are nearly endless.
Fishing
The Uinta Mountains are speckled with lakes and streams teeming with trout. Mirror Lake itself is a popular spot, but more adventurous anglers can hike into backcountry lakes like Ruth, Teal, or Dean Lake.
Camping
There are over a dozen developed campgrounds along the highway (Mirror Lake, Moosehorn, and Washington Lake are local favorites). Reservations book up early (visit Recreation.gov), but there are dispersed camping options available for last-minute plans or campers seeking solitude.
Bird & Wildlife Watching
Keep your eyes peeled for moose grazing near ponds, mountain chickadees flitting in tree branches, or deer darting through the brush.
Picnicking and Paddleboarding
Scenic pullouts and small lakes like Pass Lake or Butterfly Lake are ideal for a relaxing picnic or launching a paddleboard on a windless morning.
Photography
The jagged ridgelines, wildflower meadows, and sparkling lakes provide endless inspiration for shutterbugs.
Leave It Better Than You Found It
Spending time in nature is a privilege, and protecting it ensures an enjoyable experience for all. Here’s a refresher on the Leave No Trace principles—seven simple rules to help you leave the forest better than you found it:
- Plan Ahead and Prepare: Know the regulations where you’re going, check the weather, and bring a first aid kit, map and compass, or a GPS.
- Travel and Camp on Durable Surfaces: Stick to trails and established campsites. Camp at least 200’ away from lakes and streams.
- Dispose of Waste Properly: Come prepared to pack it in, pack it out. Yes, that includes orange peels, toilet paper, and dog poop bags. Dig a hole for solid human waste and cover when finished. Use biodegradable soap away from lakes and streams.
- Leave What You Find: Take only photos. Don’t pick wildflowers or take pinecones or rocks.
- Minimize Campfire Impact: Use a camp stove or existing fire ring, burn downed and dead wood found on the ground, and always drown your fire until it’s completely out and the embers are cold.
- Respect Wildlife: Observe from a distance and never feed animals. Animals that learn to depend on humans for food will not survive in the wilderness. Store food securely. Keep pets on a leash or leave them home.
- Be Considerate of Others: Be nice, share the trail, and keep noise down—avoid loud voices or music.
When to Go and What to Bring
The Mirror Lake Highway is typically open from mid-June through October, depending on snow conditions. Even in summer, the high elevation means chilly mornings and the occasional afternoon thunderstorm—so come prepared. Bring layers, rain gear, sunscreen, and plenty of water. Mosquito repellent is a must, too, especially in July.
Trail conditions can vary from year to year, so check with the U.S. Forest Service or the Kamas Ranger District before heading out. And arrive early, because parking fills up quickly, especially on weekends.
3 Favorite Uintas Day Hikes
With so many trails to choose from, it’s tough to pick just a few. But if you have time for a day or two of hiking, put on some sturdy boots, get your hiking essentials, pack your favorite trail food, and head out! These three routes offer great lunch spots, enjoyable terrain, and unforgettable views.
- Bench Lake via Bald Mountain Trail
Trailhead: Bald Mountain Pass
Distance: ~6.5 miles round-trip
Difficulty: Moderate
The Bald Mountain Trail is one of the most iconic in the Uintas—but instead of climbing the summit, take the quieter path to Bench Lake. From the trailhead, look for the junction sign and veer left. The trail descends gently through pine forest, alpine meadows, and rocky outcrops. First up is Clegg Lake—head to the west side for a striking view of Bald Mountain, then continue to Notch and Bench Lakes, which are surrounded by soaring cliffs. The return climb gains about 300 feet in the last mile, which can feel tough at altitude. But it’s a peaceful route with great payoff for hikers or backpackers searching for great scenery without a steep ascent.
- Hoover Lake via Fehr Lake Trail
Trailhead: Fehr Lake Trailhead
(just across from Moosehorn Campground)
Distance: ~3.5 miles round-trip
Difficulty: Moderate
This trail begins near the highway and winds past Fehr Lake before descending to Shepard Lake. Pause here for the view and note where the trail meets the shore—it’s easy to miss on the way back. Hug the lake’s left side, cross a small ridge, and you’ll reach scenic Hoover Lake. The route includes wooden walkways, wildflower meadows, and dramatic views of Bald Mountain on the return. With around 500 feet of elevation gain on the way back, it’s a manageable trek for most. Hoover Lake is ideal for a picnic—or even a paddle if you’re packing an inflatable board.
- Clyde Lake Loop
Trailhead: Crystal Lake Trailhead
(at the end of the paved road past Washington Lake)
Distance: ~5.5-mile loop
Difficulty: Moderate to Challenging
There’s debate about which direction is best, but either way, this loop delivers classic Uintas scenery: glittering lakes, granite ridgelines, and expansive views. Going clockwise, you’ll pass Cliff and Watson Lakes before climbing toward Clyde Lake, tucked in a rocky basin and backed by peaks. It’s a great lunch spot where you can hear chipping sparrows flitting through the trees as you take in the amazing vistas. Loop around, past Hope and Wall Lakes, or return the way you came. Rocky sections and some tough climbs make trekking poles a good idea.
