Not Many People Know About This Incredible Hidden Gem Inside Utah’s Mountains
Did you know that Utah’s Uinta mountains are home to a fairy forest? This spot, near the Shady Dell campground, is a magical place…full of fairy houses. Check it out!
To find the fairy forest, take the Mirror Lake Scenic Byway about 17 miles to the Shady Dell campground. The trailhead is right across from campsite number seven.
Catherine Rees
You’ll cross a little stream (this requires balancing on rocks, so wear some shoes with decent tread).
Catherine Rees
Walk up a little hill and...you’re in the fairy forest!
Catherine Rees
The fairy forest covers a lot of ground. Little paths lined with stones meander through the forest, with little fairy encampments set beneath the trees.
Catherine Rees
Fairy camps are laid out inside circles of rocks.
Catherine Rees
You'll find all kinds of fairy houses here...
Catherine Rees
Catherine Rees
Catherine Rees
Catherine Rees
Some fairies prefer a more rustic camping experience.
Catherine Rees
Other fairies have fancy tulle and butterflies in the canopy above their homes.
Catherine Rees
There's even a little fairy film theatre!
Catherine Rees
Here's a fairy version of Utah's Spiral Jetty.
Catherine Rees
People love to create these little spots for fairies...
Catherine Rees
Families and groups create and build their own little fairy encampments. It's fun to build your own...or just wander through and visit.
Have you visited the fairy forest? Tell us about it!
It’s hard to beat the fairy forest, but Utah also has some other enchanting spots. Here’s a fun hike to take that leads you to an enchanting waterfall!
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Writer, editor and researcher with a passion for exploring new places. Catherine loves local bookstores, independent films, and spending time with her family, including Gus the golden retriever, who is a very good boy.