What is Aspen Mirror Lake good for?
Aspen Mirror Lake is a 15-acre alpine lake tucked in the aspens just minutes from Duck Creek Village — about a half-mile walk from the trailhead on Forest Service Road 057 off Highway 14.
Aspen Mirror Lake
Small alpine lake hidden in aspens—wildlife and reflections
At a glance
The short version
Aspen Mirror Lake is ~5 min + short hike from Duck Creek Village Inn and works best when you want small alpine lake hidden in aspens—wildlife and reflections. Aspen Mirror Lake is a 15-acre alpine lake tucked in the aspens just minutes from Duck Creek Village — about a half-mile walk from the trailhead on Forest Service Road 057 off Highway 14.
Quick facts
| Distance | ~5 min + short hike |
|---|---|
| Drive band | 0–20 min |
| Best for | Small alpine lake hidden in aspens—wildlife and reflections |
Good to know
- Photography — early mornings produce mirror-still reflections of the surrounding forest
- Short, family-friendly hike (about half a mile to the lake)
- Shore fishing for stocked rainbow, brown, brook, and tiger trout (no boats or float tubes; Utah fishing license required)
Aspen Mirror Lake is a 15-acre alpine lake tucked in the aspens just minutes from Duck Creek Village — about a half-mile walk from the trailhead on Forest Service Road 057 off Highway 14. At roughly 8,400 feet in Dixie National Forest, it's known for calm mornings when the water mirrors the surrounding pine and aspen canopy, wildlife sightings (deer, marmots, chipmunks, and foxes), and brilliant fall color when the aspens turn red, orange, and yellow. It's one of the most photogenic and accessible spots near the village, and the short walk makes it ideal for families, photographers, and anyone who wants a quiet mountain lake experience without a long drive.
Activities
- Photography — early mornings produce mirror-still reflections of the surrounding forest
- Short, family-friendly hike (about half a mile to the lake)
- Shore fishing for stocked rainbow, brown, brook, and tiger trout (no boats or float tubes; Utah fishing license required)
- Wildlife watching — deer, marmots, chipmunks, squirrels, and frogs frequent the shoreline
- Connecting trail to Duck Lake, approximately one mile farther
Tips
Go early for still water and the best reflections. Fall is especially popular when aspen leaves turn — color peaks in September through early October. PowerBait, worms, and small spinners work well for the stocked trout; fly anglers do well with ant, midge, and leech patterns. Spring and fall offer the best fishing, though summer mornings and evenings are productive. Not stroller-friendly due to lava rocks on the trail.
When to go
Best from June through November. Fall color peaks in September–early October and draws photographers from across the region. Snow closes access in winter and early spring. Summer visits are most comfortable in early morning or evening when the light is soft and the lake is calm.
Trip planning details
- Difficulty
- Easy — half-mile walk on a flat forest trail; not stroller-friendly due to lava rocks
- Drive time
- ~5 min + short hike from the inn
- Parking
- Small parking area at the trailhead on Forest Service Road 057 off Highway 14. Vault toilets at the trailhead. Free; no entrance fee (Dixie National Forest).
- Pets
- Dogs welcome on trail and at the lake. Keep on leash near wildlife.
What to bring
- Camera — still mornings create mirror reflections
- Fishing gear if you want to cast from shore
- Water and snacks
- Layers — mornings at 8,400 ft can be cool even in summer
Reviewed March 2026 by Duck Creek Village Inn editorial team
Check lake access before you go
Lake days can shift quickly with snowmelt, afternoon storms, and road conditions on the plateau. We pair guest-planning experience with the official updates below so you can confirm water access and the safest drive up.
Planning Aspen Mirror Lake
Distance, timing, and what to expect at the water.
How far is Aspen Mirror Lake from Duck Creek Village Inn?
Aspen Mirror Lake is about ~5 min + short hike from the inn and sits in the 0–20 min drive band on this site.
When should I visit Aspen Mirror Lake?
Best from June through November. Fall color peaks in September–early October and draws photographers from across the region. Snow closes access in winter and early spring. Summer visits are most comfortable in early morning or evening when the light is soft and the lake is calm.
Stay Here, Visit Aspen Mirror Lake Tomorrow
Book your room or cabin at Duck Creek Village Inn — ~5 min + short hike from Aspen Mirror Lake.