Want a quiet mountain escape or scenic start to an alpine adventure? Visit Kamas! Just outside Park City, Kamas is a peaceful town known as the “Gateway to the Uintas.” Explore mountain trails, fish alpine lakes, or savor a relaxed pace with stunning scenery all around.

Best Time to Visit

The best time to visit Kamas is late spring through early fall (June to September). These months offer great weather for hiking, camping, and scenic drives along the Mirror Lake Highway. Winter is quieter but ideal for cross-country skiing and snowmobiling.

How to Get There

  • By Car: Kamas is located along UT-248, about 20 minutes east of Park City and just under 1 hour from Salt Lake City via I-80.
  • By Plane: Fly into Salt Lake City International Airport (SLC) and drive east to Kamas.
  • By Shuttle: Some Park City shuttles offer custom drop-offs or pickups in Kamas upon request.

Where to Stay

  • The Notch Motel – Rustic and clean roadside motel with easy access to the Mirror Lake Highway.
  • Kamas Valley Cabin Rentals – Cozy cabins and vacation homes perfect for families or outdoor enthusiasts.
  • Camping in the Uinta Mountains – Dozens of campgrounds just east of Kamas offer scenic, off-the-grid stays.

Top Attractions

Drive Into Alpine Wonder Along the Mirror Lake Scenic Byway

Drive or bike along a breathtaking alpine route with lakes, trails, and overlooks.

Drive Into Alpine Wonder Along the Mirror Lake Scenic Byway

© tristanbnz/stock.adobe.com

The Mirror Lake Scenic Byway, noted as one of Utah’s most popular mountain driving routes, is a 42-mile stretch of road along State Route 150. Starting in the town of Kamas, the byway travels up the Uinta Mountains to 10,715 feet at the Bald Mountain Pass before descending past several peaks (Hayden, Kletting, and Holiday Park) on its way to the Utah-Wyoming border. Along the Mirror Lake Scenic Byway, drivers will come across campgrounds, trails, lakes, waterfalls, picnic areas, and overlooks. Highlights on the route include Mirror Lake, Provo River Falls, Bald Mountain Pass, and the Bear River Ranger Station.

Kamas, UT

If You Love Big Performances in a Beautiful Setting, Book It to the DeJoria Center

If You Love Big Performances in a Beautiful Setting, Book It to the DeJoria Center

© Dejoria Center

The Dejoria Center in Kamas, Utah is a unique destination for events that combines peaceful natural settings with world-class capabilities. With the foothills of the Uinta Mountain Range as the backdrop of the venue, the one-of-a-kind on-site adventures, first-rate facilities, and scenic location are known for both entertaining and inspiring guests. Located on the 1,100-acre High Star Ranch, concerts at the Dejoria Center come to life with the help of state-of-the-art sound and lighting technology. The center also partners with Rhodes Valley Outfitters for group outings and guided adventures beyond the venue, which also hosts many other types of events.

970 UT-32, Kamas, UT 84036, Phone: 435-783-3113

  • High Uintas Wilderness – Explore hiking trails, waterfalls, and fishing lakes in one of Utah’s most pristine backcountry areas.
  • Samak Smoke House – Popular roadside stop offering jerky, smoked cheeses, and local souvenirs.
  • Kamas Fish Hatchery – Family-friendly spot to learn about trout and native fish conservation.
  • Uinta Mountains Trailheads – Access top trails like Bald Mountain, Ruth Lake, and Lofty Lake from nearby trailheads.

Where to Eat

  • Mirror Lake Diner – Hearty American breakfasts, burgers, and comfort food with mountain-town vibes.
  • Hi-Mountain Drug – Old-fashioned soda fountain with ice cream, shakes, and small-town nostalgia.
  • The Notch Pub – Laid-back local hangout with burgers, brews, and great views.

Local Events

  • Kamas Valley Fiesta Days (July) – Rodeo, parade, fireworks, and family fun during this classic small-town celebration.
  • Mirror Lake Highway Opening Weekend (Late Spring) – Celebrate the seasonal reopening of the scenic byway with local specials and trail access.
  • Farmers Market at Kamas Food Town (Summer) – Local produce, crafts, and food in a casual, friendly setting.

Day Trips Within 30 Minutes of Kamas, Utah

  • Oakley (5–10 min) – Attend the Oakley Rodeo, hike scenic trails, or relax along the Weber River.
  • Francis (5–10 min) – Visit local farms, enjoy small-town charm, or explore nearby Uinta foothills.
  • Woodland (10–15 min) – Drive peaceful country roads, spot wildlife, or fish quiet mountain streams.
  • Peoa (15–20 min) – Take a scenic drive, visit a working ranch, or explore the nearby Weber Canyon area.
  • Hideout (25–30 min) – Soak in Jordanelle Reservoir views, go boating, or hike peaceful lakeside trails.
  • Heber City (North Side) (25–30 min) – Ride the Heber Valley Railroad, fish Provo River, or stroll historic downtown.
  • Midway (East Side) (25–30 min) – Relax in natural hot springs, explore Swiss-style architecture, or attend seasonal festivals.
  • Park City (East Side) (25–30 min) – Hit the slopes, explore Old Town, or enjoy world-class dining and entertainment.
  • Jordanelle State Park (20–25 min) – Boat, paddleboard, or picnic with sweeping views of the Wasatch Mountains.

FAQ

  • What is Kamas, Utah like?
    • The town of Kamas, Utah, is a high country, relatively quiet town with a ranch mentality and only around 2,000 residents.
  • What defines Kamas, Utah today?
    • The town today is often defined by its expansive open spaces, family friendliness, and access to recreation.
  • What scenic drive can visitors enjoy near Kamas?
    • For fans of scenic drives, the Mirror Lake Scenic Byway offers more than forty miles of great scenery.
  • Where can visitors enjoy concerts in Kamas?
    • Those who prefer more urban activities can head to the Dejoria Center for a concert in one of the state’s best event venues with a scenic mountain backdrop.

At a Glance


Best Time to Visit Places to Stay Tips for Visiting
Spring (March-May) – Mild temperatures and wildflowers in bloom. Woodland Farmhouse Inn – A cozy and rustic stay with a country feel. Drive the Mirror Lake Highway – Enjoy scenic views as snow begins to melt.
Summer (June-August) – Warm and ideal for hiking, fishing, and camping. The Notch Peak Inn – A charming mountain retreat near outdoor adventures. Camp at Uinta-Wasatch-Cache National Forest – Experience breathtaking mountain landscapes.
Fall (September-November) – Crisp air, vibrant foliage, and fewer crowds. Black Rock Mountain Resort – A stylish and comfortable stay just outside Kamas. Take a scenic drive through the High Uintas – Witness golden aspens and mountain lakes.
Winter (December-February) – Cold and snowy, perfect for winter sports. Stein Eriksen Lodge (Park City) – A luxurious ski-in/ski-out resort nearby. Go snowmobiling in the Uinta Mountains – Enjoy backcountry trails with stunning winter scenery.

Plan Your Trip