Snow plows working on Mirror Lake Highway in 2025. Photo: UDOT Wasatch Back.

SUMMIT COUNTY, Utah — Warmer temperatures and melting snow are signaling the return of high-elevation travel across Utah, with the Utah Department of Transportation projecting several popular seasonal roads will reopen by Memorial Day weekend.

Among the routes expected to open are Mirror Lake Highway, the Alpine Loop and Guardsman Pass — three of the state’s most scenic and heavily used summer corridors.

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These high-elevation roads are closed each winter due to snowpack, avalanche risk, and the difficulty of maintaining safe driving conditions. Most typically remain closed from November through late spring, depending on weather and plowing progress.

Last year, Guardsman Pass opened Tuesday, May 20. Mirror Lake Highway and the Alpine Loop opened May 26.

The openings will provide access to trailheads, campgrounds and alpine recreation areas across northern Utah, including popular destinations in the Uinta Mountains, American Fork Canyon, and the Wasatch Back.

Mirror Lake Highway, which runs east from Kamas toward the Wyoming border, is one of Utah’s highest paved roads and typically opens once snow is cleared near Bald Mountain Pass.

Guardsman Pass connects Park City, Big Cottonwood Canyon, and Heber Valley, offering access to trailheads such as Bloods Lake and Bonanza Flat.

Meanwhile, the Alpine Loop links American Fork and Provo canyons and is known for its high-altitude views and fall foliage.

Officials caution that opening dates are subject to change based on weather, late-season storms, and road conditions.

Drivers are encouraged to check current conditions before heading out using UDOT’s traffic website or app, which provides real-time updates on closures, construction and travel impacts statewide.