Discover Kamas: Rivers, Mountains, and History

Kamas combines impressive landscapes with a multifaceted local history. The Uintah Mountains lie east of Kamas Valley, while the Wasatch Mountains lie to the west. At the same time, several rivers shape the surrounding area: the Weber River crosses the northern end of the valley, the Provo River runs through the southern end, and Beaver Creek flows diagonally from southeast to northwest. Those looking to combine a trip with nature, short excursions, and historical stories will find a range of options here for planning their days.

Landscape and Trails Around Kamas

The Mirror Lake Scenic Byway, also known as S.R. 150, offers a distinctive landscape experience. The route begins in Kamas, follows the Upper Provo River, and climbs to 10,700 feet. To reach the Mirror Lake Scenic Byway, drive through Kamas on Main Street to Center Street. The nearby area along the byway includes cross-country skiing and snowshoe trails.

There are also different options for hiking plans. A four-mile hike with a total elevation gain of 1,300 feet leads to the summit of Bald Mountain. The associated trailhead is about 29 miles east of Kamas on Highway 150. The North Fork Trail, by contrast, is a four-mile out-and-back route through gently rolling terrain. These differences make it possible to adapt your day to your preferred route length and terrain without planning every outing in the same way.

The landscape also has a long prehistory: scientists believe that Kamas Valley was once covered by water. A historic route followed the Provo River through the valley and then continued northeast along the northern side of the Uintah Mountains. Kamas was used as a supply station for people traveling to the Uinta Mountains and the Wilderness Area.

History, Traditions, and Local Character

Kamas was founded by John Simpson in 1857 and was originally called Rhodes Valley. A historic Indigenous camp stood at the site where the city is located today. A particularly specific insight into the past can be found at the Kamas/Rhoades Valley DUP Museum at 91 West Center Street. The oldest surviving building in Kamas is the 1871 Rock House at 30 South Main Street.

Further traces of history can be found at the King Store. The two-story building was constructed in 1897 and was once the best-stocked store in the county. The Kamas Opera House brought the first talking pictures to Kamas. An event dating back even further took place in 1825, when a rendezvous was held on the Kamas Prairie. The Kamas Valley Fiesta Days have also been one of the town's annual traditions for more than 80 years.

Those who want to combine the Mirror Lake Scenic Byway, hikes, and the river landscape can consider Kamas as a destination to search for. Those more interested in local history and cultural sites can plan their days around the museum, Rock House, King Store, and the Dejoria Center, an event venue in Kamas's High Star Ranch neighborhood.

Compare More Destinations

If you would like to compare several destinations, you can also take a look at Summit Park, Park City, and Coalville.

To the higher-level travel overview: Summit.