WRITTEN BY DAVID SCHWARTZ
The Mirror Lake Trail (FT 1821) offers excellent opportunities for hiking, camping, horseback riding, wildlife viewing, and fishing. Access the trail from Meeker by going west on County Road 13 then following County Road 8 (The Flat Tops Trail) to the Trappers Lake Road (FR 205). The turnoff to the trailhead is approximately 1/4 mile from the intersection of CR 8 and FR 205.
The trail crosses through a private easement and a private section of the North Fork of the White River before entering the Flat Tops Wilderness Area and beginning a steady ascent to Mirror Lake. Along the trail you’re likely to encounter a variety of birds and small mammals. Mule deer, elk, moose and black bears also frequent the area.
The Mirror Lake trail provides access to two excellent fishing opportunities—Shamrock Lake and Mirror Lake.
Shamrock Lake
Shamrock Lake sits approximately 2.75 miles from the trailhead. Brook trout are the primary species available at Shamrock. Anglers occasionally catch rainbow trout as well. Much of the shoreline provides ample room for casting. The lake offers a great opportunity for dry fly fishing from the shore. Fish often feed aggressively on the surface near the banks.
Mirror Lake
Approximately 3.5 miles from the trailhead you’ll find Mirror Lake. This beautiful lake offers outstanding fishing for brook trout. Some tiger trout have recently been stocked. Much of the shoreline is open with good space for back cast.
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Contact the White River National Forest/Blanco Ranger District or the Meeker Chamber of Commerce for more information.
A pocket fishing map can be purchased for $3 at the Meeker Chamber of Commerce. This map covers the North and South Fork of the White River from Meeker to Trappers Lake. It includes fishing access areas, river mile markers, public restrooms, lodging areas, picnic areas, campsites, parking and trails.
