Mirror Lake Hike
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Mirror Lake Hike
Difficulty Rating:
A great, easy hike to do if you are enjoying the beach or the water of Mirror Lake. The Shoreside Loop trail walks you around the entire lake and grants stunning views up to the mountains that surround it.
Getting there
From Kamas take Utah 150 for 31.2mi until you see signs for Mirror Lake. Turn right and descend down the paved access road down to the ranger station, parking lot, and campground. Find parking in the boat launch/picnic area, not the official hiking parking.
About
| When to do | Spring through fall |
| Backcountry Campsites | None |
| Toilets | Yes, at trailhead |
| Family friendly | Yes |
| Route Signage | Average |
| Crowd Levels | High |
| Route Type | Circuit |
Mirror Lake Hike
Elevation Graph
Weather
Mirror Lake (Shoreside Loop) Trail Description
To start the Mirror Lake hike, head down to the lake from the parking lot and decide which way to complete the loop. Both ways grant identical views, and both are thoroughly enjoyable. This trail description will detail the hike going counter clockwise.
Once down at the lake, head to the right along the wide dirt path that follows close to the river. Soon you will leave most of the crowds and your only companion will be fellow hikers and the occasional hardy family looking to hike first, swim later.
Almost immediately, as you look west, you will be able to see Reids Peak towering over the lake. Continuing along, you will swerve left and right as you follow the contours of Mirror Lake.
Soon you will reach the north side of the lake and the path will veer left. Looking south you can see Murdoch Mountain, taking Reids’ place.
The path will head west before turning left to veer south. Here are some of the best views of the hike. You will be able to see the whole massif of Mount Agassiz reflected across the water!
Finally, you will return to the beach and your car, completing the loop.
Hiking trail highlights
Mirror Lake
Located in the high Uinta Mountains of Utah, you’ll find Mirror Lake. This special spot is loved by the locals for the abundant fishing opportunities the lake offers. Cast a line from the shore and you just might catch a species of trout: rainbow, tiger and brook.
There is also a boat launch for non-motorized watercrafts, so chances are you’ll spot a kayak or canoe paddling by, especially at sunset. Mirror Lake is home to a fantastic picnic area and is popular for day-use for families to get outdoors and enjoy the pretty setting. On hot days, swimmers can also take a dive into the refreshing waters of Mirror Lake for a late afternoon swim.
Find more great hikes in the Uinta Mountains:
Insider Hints
Bring fishing rods, kayaks, or swim gear to further enjoy the beautiful alpine lake.
A recreation pass is required to park in the National Forest, which can be purchased throughout the park; however, a National Parks Pass is also accepted.
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subterry 5 years ago
Short walk with lots of beautiful views. Wonderful environment.
Queenie 5 years ago
Short and smooth hike. Stunning view of the lake.
applepanda 5 years ago
The lake is just jaw-dropping. The trail rewards you with a nice view of nature. 9/10 for me on this one.
mountaincat 5 years ago
Nice alpine lake, lovely walk