Hike-in Required
No
ADA accessible
No
Guided tours
No
Please respect the outdoors by practicing Leave No Trace. Learn more about how to apply the principles of Leave No Trace on your next outdoor adventure here.

One of the most popular scenic drives of northern Utah, Mirror Lake Highway is one part adventure conduit, one part sightseeing trip, and one part commute for people headed to Evanston, Wyoming. The popular road has a steady flow of drivers during the warm months, but it's mostly shut down during the harsh winters. The road is not reopened until the snow melts, which can be as late as July in big winters. The Uinta Mountains are a unique place not only because of the great beauty, but also because it is one of the few east-to-west running mountain chains in the U.S.

Named for the iconic and large Mirror Lake, the 55-mile State Route 150 is one of the premiere destinations in Utah when the colors change for autumn. Keep an eye on the road while sightseeing. The combined effect of commuters and the plentiful deer can make for some hairy roads. The speed limit is quite high considering the terrain and prevalence of accidents. Some of its iconic spots include the Provo River Falls, Christmas Meadows, Lofty Lake Loop Hike and Ruth Lake.

There are endless opportunities for adventure along this road. Camping, fishing, hunting, hiking, backpacking, waterfall chasing, moose spotting, rock climbing, mountaineering, birdwatching and backcountry skiing in the winter can all be accessed from this road. At Bald Mountain Pass, the road sets the record for highest paved road in Utah at 10,715 feet.

You may pass through without paying a fee, but if you park and enjoy any recreation activities, there is a $6 three-day pass you must purchase at the gate house or from the iron ranger.

Logistics + Planning

Preferable season(s)

Summer
Fall

Congestion

Moderate

Parking Pass

General Day Use Fee

Pros

Amazing sights. Terrific fall color. Endless possible adventures. Backcountry camping.

Cons

Deer on the highway. Closed in winter. Lots of bugs.

Pets allowed

Allowed

Features

Wildflowers
Big vistas
Geologically significant
Waterfalls

Location

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