
Where is Gates Lake?
Usa, north-america
46.7 km
N/A
moderate
Year-round
Okay, adventure seekers, listen up! Gates Lake, nestled high in Utah's Fishlake National Forest (Sevier County, to be exact), is calling your name. This pristine mountain lake sits at a seriously impressive elevation, about 29 miles southeast of Salina. Think postcard-perfect scenery and total serenity.
Now, getting there is half the fun, but it's not for the faint of heart. The road to the lake? Totally unpaved! We're talking a roughly 5.6-mile dirt track heading south-north from the main paved road. Leave the trailer at home, trust me. And honestly, low-clearance cars need not apply – this is strictly 4x4 territory. You'll likely have the whole place to yourself, though. Usually open from [insert season]. So, if you're craving a real off-the-grid experience, Gates Lake might just be your spot!
Road Details
- Country
- Usa
- Continent
- north-america
- Length
- 46.7 km
- Difficulty
- moderate
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