Posted in Utah August 05, 2016 by Catherine Armstrong

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!

We’re aware that these uncertain times are limiting many aspects of life as we all practice social and physical distancing. While we’re continuing to feature destinations that make our state wonderful, we don’t expect or encourage you to go check them out immediately. We believe that supporting local attractions is important now more than ever and we hope our articles inspire your future adventures! And on that note, please nominate your favorite local business that could use some love right now: https://www.onlyinyourstate.com/nominate/

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.

You’ll cross a little stream (this requires balancing on rocks, so wear some shoes with decent tread).

Walk up a little hill and...you’re in the fairy forest!

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.

Fairy camps are laid out inside circles of rocks.

You'll find all kinds of fairy houses here...

Some fairies prefer a more rustic camping experience.

Other fairies have fancy tulle and butterflies in the canopy above their homes.

There's even a little fairy film theatre!

Here's a fairy version of Utah's Spiral Jetty.

People love to create these little spots for fairies...

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!