Take This Enchanting Road Trip To The Most Gorgeous Emerald Lakes In Utah
By Catherine Armstrong|Published July 05, 2018
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Catherine Armstrong
Author
Writer, editor and researcher with a passion for exploring new places. Catherine loves local bookstores, independent films, and spending time with her family, including Gus the golden retriever, who is a very good boy.
Utahs High Uinta Wilderness is one of the most beautiful places in the Beehive State. During hot summer months, a road trip along the Mirror Lake Scenic Byway (UT-150) brings cooler temperatures, the fragrant smell of pines, and dozens of clear, alpine lakes.
The Mirror Lake Scenic Byway starts in Kamas and winds its way up to Bald Mountain Pass before making its way back down to Mirror Lake. From there, the highway continues on to the Utah/Wyoming border. The entire byway stretches 42 miles, but it's just 32 miles from Kamas to Mirror Lake.
Your first stop is Upper Provo Falls. It's a beautiful 40-foot waterfall that cascades down the mountain along the Provo River. You can see the falls right from the parking lot off the highway, or take a little stroll to get a closer look.
...and Lilly Lake is directly across the road to your left. These three little lakes all have pretty campgrounds and are very accessible right from the main highway.
These lakes are just a few of the many lakes you'll find in the Uinta mountains near Mirror Lake Scenic Byway. If you're willing to get off the beaten path, you'll be able to explore dozens more crystal-clear lakes along the way.
In this photo, you can see Moosehorn Lake in the foreground, with Fehr lake behind it. The three small lakes farthest away are Hoover Lake, Shepard Lake, and Marshall Lake.
It's common to see moose and deer along the highway, and you'll certainly see some wildlife if you take the time to explore around the lakes and along the trails.
