Mirror Lake Highway or State Route 150 is the highest asphalted road and a popular scenic byway in Utah, 50 miles (80 km) east of Salt Lake City. Starting from Kamas (some 20 minutes from Park City) the road winds through the Uinta-Wasatch-Cache National Forest and into the Uinta Mountains to the Wyoming/Utah border. The road passes farms, ranches, green meadows, and rugged rock formations. You'll discover picnic areas, scenic viewpoints, fishing lakes, and campgrounds. Also, Wasatch-Cache National Forest section of the drive features exciting hairpin corners and steep grades, as well as stunning mountain views.
Mirror Lake Highway facts
Mirror Lake Highway is 77 miles (124 km) long. It was built in 1933. The highest point of the byway is the Bald Mountain Pass at 10,687 feet (3,257 m). After the pass, the road descends to Mirror Lake and Bear River Ranger Station. From there, the road runs parallel the Bear River and on to Evanston, Wyoming.
When is Mirror Lake Highway open
The road is typically open from late May through October. The Mirror Lake Highway closure occurs when the snow is too deep to plow. The heavy snowfalls start around early November. You can check the current status at UDOT TRAFFIC.
Mirror Lake Highway camping
Kamas area boasts several campgrounds offering recreation activities such as hiking and fishing. You can stop at Mirror Lake Campground tucked just off the Mirror Lake Scenic Byway. Its campsites sit right on the shores of its beautiful eponymous lake and boast stunning views. However, the campground is unpaved. Paved camping opportunities off the road include Trial Lake Campground and Lilly Lake Campground. Just note that the latter is non-reservable, whereas two others require the reservations to be made at least five days in advance. Additionally, you may want to have a look at the Mirror Lake Highway map below and study hotel options.
Mirror Lake Highway hiking trails
The byway slices High Uinta Wilderness which boasts a number of hiking trails packed with scenic views. Bald Mountain Trail and Crystal Lake Trail are some of the most popular hiking areas near Kamas. Also, you can walk a scenic and well-kept Lofty Lake Trail near Hanna. The trailheads are located just off Utah State Route 150 making them extra popular with the visitors to Mirror Lake Highway. Naturally, these trails tend to be heavily trafficked. Hiking in early fall is particularly splendid when Utah is dressed in fall foliage.
Practical info
What is the best time of year to visit Mirror Lake Highway?
To enjoy the scenic beauty of Mirror Lake Highway, you can visit between late May and October. This will be the appropriate time for you as the road remains open due to weather conditions. During early fall, you can enjoy the beautiful fall foliage, especially in September and early October. Show more
What are some popular hiking trails in the area?
If you're looking for popular hiking trails in Kamas, then you won't be disappointed. The most visited trails in the area include the Bald Mountain and Crystal Lake trails. You can also check out Lofty Lake Trail near Hanna, which is well-maintained and provides an excellent view of the mountains. Even though these trails are quite crowded, they offer breathtaking views. Show more
When does the Mirror Lake Highway typically open and close each year?
If you are planning a trip to Mirror Lake Highway, be aware that it is usually only open from late May to October due to snow. The closure is because of impassable snow, and it typically starts around early November. To find out its current status, you can visit the UDOT Traffic website. Show more
What are some popular campgrounds in the Kamas area?
Mirror Lake, Trail Lake, and Lilly Lake are the popular campgrounds in the Kamas area. While Mirror Lake Campground is located on the edge of the lake and offers excellent scenic beauty, it is unpaved. Trail Lake and Lilly Lake campgrounds offer paved camping opportunities off the road, with the latter one being non-reservable. Reservations are required at least five days in advance for the other two campgrounds. Show more
Are there any hotels along the Mirror Lake Highway?
If you are planning to visit Mirror Lake Highway and looking for a comfortable stay, Kamas, Park City, and their surrounding areas offer a wide range of hotels, lodges, and vacation rentals. Visitors usually prefer camping, fishing, hiking, and picnicking to enjoy the natural beauty of the place. Show more
