High Uintas Wilderness

Straddling the spine of Utah's eastern border, the High Uintas Wilderness is a rugged, alpine paradise that feels a world away from the red rock deserts the state is famous for. Here, the Uinta Mountains run east–west, a quirk of geology that creates a vast, roadless expanse of peaks, over 1,000 high-altitude lakes, and the headwaters of major rivers. For travellers seeking solitude, pristine trout fishing, and some of the most accessible backcountry in the American West, this is a place to lose yourself—literally and figuratively.

Highlights & What to See

• Kings Peak: The highest point in Utah (13,528 ft). A challenging but non-technical summit hike rewards with panoramic views across the range.
• Mirror Lake Highway (UT-150): A scenic drive that provides access to dozens of trailheads and lakes. Stop at Mirror Lake itself for a classic, postcard-perfect reflection.
• Naturalist Basin: A stunning basin filled with wildflowers, crystal-clear lakes, and excellent camping. Ideal for a multi-day backpacking loop.
• Uinta Highline Trail: A 100+ mile route for experienced backpackers, tracing the crest of the range. It's a true wilderness immersion, with few signs of human impact.
• Fishing & Wildlife: The lakes teem with brook, rainbow, and cutthroat trout. Keep an eye out for moose, elk, and the occasional black bear.

Suggested Time to Spend

Most visitors come for a long weekend or a full week. If you're short on time, a day hike from the Mirror Lake Highway (e.g., to Lofty Lake or Bald Mountain) gives a taste of the alpine scenery. For a proper wilderness experience, plan 3–5 days for a backpacking trip into the high basins. The short summer season (July–September) means trails are snow-free, but crowds are thin outside of weekends. Allow at least half a day just for driving the gravel roads to reach the more remote trailheads.

Nearby Areas Worth Combining

• Park City: A mountain town with excellent dining, breweries, and the historic Main Street. Great for a pre- or post-hike treat.
• Dinosaur National Monument: About two hours east, this site has incredible fossil displays and a scenic river canyon.
• Flaming Gorge National Recreation Area: A dramatic red-rock reservoir with boating, fishing, and hiking. Combines the Uintas' alpine with desert landscapes.
• Salt Lake City: The nearest major city, with international airport access, great food, and cultural attractions. A logical start or end point.
• Wasatch Mountain State Park: Offers more moderate hiking and golf, plus the historic Heber Valley Railroad. A good family-friendly addition.

Please check official sources for current details.