Mirror Lake is the crown jewel of the nearly 1,000 natural lakes in the High Uinta wilderness area. When the water is calm, the mountain setting is reflected perfectly in the lake.

Mirror Lake is located just off state Route 150, also known as the Mirror Lake Scenic Byway, about 30 miles east of Kamas. Mirror Lake is a popular spot for fishing, camping or just stopping by for a picnic or a picture.

We hiked the 1.5 mile trail circling the lake. The trail is flat and the hike is easy enough for just about anyone. It is muddy in places and was crowded when we went. My kids enjoyed hearing the frogs in one marshy area of the trail, but couldn't catch one. There are interpretive signs near the trailhead giving information about the lake and its history.

Mirror Lake sits at about 10,000 feet. The temperature around the lake seldom rises above 80 F in the summer, and much of the area around the lake is shady.

Afternoon thunderstorms are common, so it's a good idea to bring a long-sleeve shirt or jacket. Temperatures can get down to 40 F at night.

Mosquitoes are abundant around the lake area, so be sure to wear repellent. Take sunscreen and a hat as well, since it is easier to get sunburned at high elevations.

Fishing is good at Mirror Lake, which is stocked by the Division of Wildlife Resources with rainbow and brook trout. There are shady places to sit and take in the scenery while you fish, but if you're looking for solitude, avoid the weekends.

There are 85 campsites at Mirror Lake Campground, including some double sites. There are 10 sites for campers with horses. There is one group camping area that can accommodate up to 50 campers. RVs are welcome, but there are no hookups in the area.

The cost of single campsites is $14 per night. There are a few first-come, first-served sites available, but reservations are recommended since the campground usually fills up. You can make reservations at www.recreation.gov. The campground requires a two-night reservation for weekends and three nights on holidays.

By taking a short hike from a trailhead at the Mirror Lake campground you can hook into the Highline Trail, the main east-west, foot-and-horse trail traversing the High Uintas. The Highline Trail system stretches more than 100 miles through the Uintas and is great for backpacking. These trails are open to hiking and horseback riding. There are no mountain biking or ATV trails in the immediate area of Mirror Lake.

A boat launch gives easy lake access to canoes, kayaks and fishing rafts. No motorized boats are allowed.

Ranger presentations are given at the campground amphitheater on the weekends.

There is a recreation fee of $6 for three days and $12 for a week. A recreation pass must be displayed at all stops along the Mirror Lake Highway.

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