Utah is home to some enchanting places to visit. In fact, many of these unique destinations are just like something out of a storybook. One of our favorite magical places to visit is the Fairy Forest in Utah. This area is located near the Mirror Lake Scenic Byway and looks like a charming place where fairies live. Exploring the Fairy Forest is one of the most unique — and delightful — things to do outside in Utah.

The Fairy Forest can be a little tricky to find. You will want to take the Mirror Lake Scenic Byway to the Shady Dell Campground. You will find the trailhead to the forest near campsite #7.
BreeAnna Cook/AllTrails
The Fairy Forest Trail is not your typical hiking trail in Utah. But it is beautiful and nestled in the mountains, so you will feel tucked away from the world.
You do have to cross a small river to reach the Fairy Forest. There are logs and large rocks to help you remain dry while crossing, but be aware that in late spring, you may encounter a swift-flowing river, making it difficult to cross and visit the forest.
SLC Family/AllTrails
After the water crossing, you will have just a short hike to reach the Fairy Forest and you’ll immediately know once you’ve arrived. The forest features thousands of painted rocks, fairy houses, and more.
BreeAnna Cook/AllTrails

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There are also multiple paths that will take you all around the fairy homes and encampments. Take your time and admire each one — you never know what you will find and the small details are quite fun to spot!
Celeste Baker Delamare/AllTrails
In years past, the Fairy Forest was once decorated with all sorts of unique habitats, but major clean-up projects have taken place to remove foreign objects in the forest. It is encouraged not to add to the Fairy Forest but to simply admire the area as is.
Breck Tuttle/AllTrails
Despite the heavy clean-up efforts, you will still find enchanting, natural habitats for the fairies in this forest. It's certainly a Utah destination that is one of a kind.
Celeste Baker Delamare/AllTrails

To help you more easily find the Fairy Forest, we recommend taking a map with you.

Have you ever been to this hidden forest in Utah? What did you think about this area? We’d love to hear your thoughts in the comments!

If you want to learn even more about the Mirror Lake Scenic Byway and some of the other unique stops along the way, check out this article we wrote about one of the most beautiful drives in Utah!

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