The High Uintas Wilderness encompasses some of Utah’s most stunning natural beauty. Its 456,705 acres include glacial lakes, fields of wildflowers, and Utah’s highest peaks (King’s Peak, at an elevation of 13,534 feet is here).
A trip along the Mirror Lake Scenic Byway is one of the easiest ways to explore some of this wilderness area, and visitors find dozens of lakes and hiking trails along the way. If you’re looking for a short, easy trail with big payoffs, check out the Ruth Lake Trail:
To find the trailhead, travel along the Mirror Lake Scenic Byway (UT-150) from Kamas for 35 miles. There is a $6 fee to access the highway, which is good for three days.
At milepost 35.1, you’ll find the Pass Lake Trailhead. This trail is one of the easiest in the area, and can get crowded on holiday weekends. Arrive early to find a parking spot in the small lot at the trailhead.
Doug Oler/Alltrails
The trail is just .8 miles long. Mosquitos are plentiful during summer months, so bring along insect repellant, and dress in layers - weather up here can change in an instant, and a rainstorm can result in a very cold, soggy hike back.
Paul Smith/Alltrails
Walk through meadows and along a stream…
Tanya Hermansen/Alltrails
…and stop to admire a few ponds along the way.
Greg Marsden/Alltrails
You’ll soon come to Ruth Lake!
Breck Tuttle/Alltrails
Wildflowers are abundant here, both on the trail and around the lake. An array of vibrant blooms in pink, yellow, purple, and blue add splashes of color to the beautiful landscape.
Kellan Chambers/Alltrails
Ruth Lake is a great spot for a high-altitude picnic. After lunch, circle around the lake, and take in views of Hayden Peak.
Hannah Hoke/Alltrails
Unlike many of the trails in this rugged wilderness, the Ruth Lake trail has an elevation change of just 262 feet. Kids and dogs love this pretty trail, which offers lots of marshy, wet spots for exploring.
Tk Schroeder/Alltrails
When you hike to Ruth Lake, remember to practice the principles of Leave No Trace, and teach your kids how to enjoy Utah’s wilderness in a responsible way, too!
Hannah Hoke/Alltrails
What are some of your favorite hikes along the Mirror Lake Scenic Byway? Tell our readers about them in the comments!
Doug Oler/Alltrails
Paul Smith/Alltrails
Tanya Hermansen/Alltrails
Greg Marsden/Alltrails
Breck Tuttle/Alltrails
Kellan Chambers/Alltrails
Hannah Hoke/Alltrails
Tk Schroeder/Alltrails
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