I had explored the southern end of Mirror Lake Scenic Byway during visits with dear friends in Heber City, Utah, but winter closures and tight schedules had kept me from driving the entire route.

That changed during a late-July road trip from Denver to Heber City. After crawling through miles of construction on Interstate 80 in southern Wyoming, I happily traded the highway for one of Utah’s most spectacular scenic drives.

From Evanston, I turned south on Wyoming Highway 150. Ranches and farmland soon gave way to forests, alpine lakes, waterfalls, and the rugged peaks of the High Uintas.

Driving Mirror Lake Scenic Byway

Mirror Lake Scenic Byway follows State Route 150 between Kamas, Utah, and the Wyoming state line. The designated byway covers approximately 42 miles, but continuing to or from Evanston makes the drive roughly 65 miles.

You could drive it in about 90 minutes without stopping, but where’s the fun in that? Give yourself at least half a day to enjoy the overlooks, lakes, waterfalls, and short trails along the route.

The High Uinta Mountains are unusual because the range runs primarily east to west instead of north to south. The Uintas stretch for roughly 150 miles and include Utah’s highest mountain, 13,528-foot Kings Peak.

Pass Lake and Mirror Lake

My first stop after crossing into Utah was Pass Lake, followed by the Hayden Peak overlook and Mirror Lake.

The scent of aspens and pines was especially wonderful after a rain. With the wind nearly calm, Mirror Lake lived up to its name and reflected the surrounding forest and mountains in its glassy water.

A trail circles the lake if you have time for a short hike. Mirror Lake is also popular for fishing, paddling, picnicking, and camping.

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Bald Mountain Pass

As the road climbs toward Bald Mountain Pass, thick forest gives way to a rugged, tundra-like landscape above treeline. At 10,715 feet, this is the highest point on Mirror Lake Highway and one of the highest paved roads in Utah.

North of the pass, streams flow toward the Bear River. South of it, the water drains toward the Provo River. From the summit area, you’re surrounded by the craggy peaks and glacier-carved valleys of the High Uintas.

Just beyond the pass, I stopped at an overlook and noticed several men struggling to take a group picture with a self-timer. I offered to help and discovered they were three generations of one family: a grandfather, son, and grandsons making memories together.

As I walked away, they jokingly called out, “See ya here next year.” I hope they’ve continued that wonderful family tradition.

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Provo River Falls

My final stop was Provo River Falls, about 23 miles from Kamas. This series of cascades tumbles over broad rock ledges surrounded by forest.

Several viewpoints are only a short walk from the parking area, making this one of the easiest and most rewarding stops along Mirror Lake Scenic Byway. Water flow is typically strongest earlier in summer, but it’s a beautiful stop through the fall.

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What to Know Before You Go

Mirror Lake Highway is seasonal and typically closes between November and May or June, depending on snowfall and plowing. Check UDOT seasonal road conditions before heading into the mountains.

There is no fee simply to drive the highway. However, a recreation pass is required when parking at Forest Service-managed sites along the scenic corridor. America the Beautiful passes are accepted. 

Cell service is limited. Mountain weather can change quickly. Pack water, snacks, sunscreen, and a jacket, even on a warm summer day.

Whether you drive from Kamas to the Wyoming state line or use the byway as a scenic alternative between Heber City or Park City and Evanston, Mirror Lake Scenic Byway is a glorious summer or fall road trip through Utah’s high country.

If you have plans to be in the area over July 4th, don’t miss the Oakley Rodeo. Tickets typically sell out fast in February so plan ahead. If you’re visiting the south end of Mirror Lake Scenic Byway during ski season, check out Winter in the Wasatch for snowshoeing and cross country skiing fun.