Get to Know Echo State Park
Situated at 5,560 feet above sea level, just north of Park City, lies Echo State Park. Watersports are king here, and whether you kayak, paddleboard, or boat, it’s a perfect place to get out on the water.
Nestled in the Wasatch Range near the old mining town of Coalville lies Echo State Park. It’s just a 45-minute drive from Salt Lake City and even closer to Ogden, making it a great spot for an afternoon of kayaking on sparkling waters.
My friend and I arrived at its sandy shores after the easy drive from SLC. Our plan was to enjoy an afternoon of kayaking on its serene, glasslike waters, but we were dismayed to see a locked entrance gate when we initially arrived. Not ready to give up, we investigated and learned (thankfully) that walk-ins are welcome even when motorized boating access is closed.
Parking on the water side of Echo Dam Road, we unloaded our kayak and carried it down a well-worn path to a sandy spot along the shore. A few families and groups were picnicking along the beach, but we mostly had the place to ourselves.
Tall trees stood in the shallow water near the shore, providing the perfect spot to hang a hammock, and as soon as the sun streamed through the clouds, we took our cue to launch. Our paddles sliced through the glassy water as we kayaked northward toward the dam. We paddled until our arms were sore, but never saw another craft, and had the colorful cliff views and wide open waters all to ourselves.
If you visit on a day when there are more motorized boats, you’ll have no trouble finding peace and solitude on this vast body of water, which covers 1,450 acres. If you visit in the evening just before sunset, it’s also especially peaceful.
Echo Reservoir has long been popular with boaters, water skiers, anglers and campers.
Photo: CMK Photography
Becoming a State Park
A byproduct of a Great Depression-era earthen dam, the reservoir has long been popular with boaters, water skiers, anglers and campers.
Situated in the town of Coalville at 5,560 feet above sea level, just north of Park City, the reservoir dam has been owned by the Bureau of Reclamation since its construction in 1931. But, private entities have managed the dam and concession area for many years. That all changed in November 2017 when the Bureau of Reclamation approached Utah State Parks about assuming management. A deal was soon inked and a resolution passed to make Echo Utah’s newest state park in the spring of 2018.
"Our paddles sliced through the glassy water as we kayaked northward toward the dam. We paddled until our arms were sore, but never saw another craft, and had the colorful cliff views and wide open waters all to ourselves."
Boater Benefits
For boaters, Echo State Park adds an additional option and an alternative destination from popular Jordanelle and Rockport reservoirs. The reservoir hugs Interstate 80, making it easily accessible, and you can drive to the reservoir almost as quickly as you can drive to Rockport. Plus, the park has a tree-filled, grassy marina that’s a pleasant place to launch and lounge on the shoreline. You’ll also find a boat ramp, primitive camping and restrooms.
How to Explore by Kayak and Paddleboard
While boat rentals are possible in the future, this reservoir is currently B.Y.O.Boat, and there are numerous access points that require just a bit of effort to get on the water. Carry your kayak or stand-up paddleboard in from the road, or use the accessible boat launch come summer. Stick closer to the shore on busy days to avoid big wakes. Make it an overnight trip and camp at sites along the lake’s south side where shady trees, fire pits and nearby toilets provide all the amenities you need.
Go Fishing
Anglers venture to Echo for stocked rainbow and brown trout in the deeper waters, along with walleye and smallmouth bass. The best fishing months are May and June, but winter draws ice fishermen who love Echo’s thick, stable ice.
Ride or Run the Historic Union Pacific Rail Trail
Looking for a unique way to reach Echo State Park? Start in Park City and follow the non-motorized trail built along an old mining railroad line 28 miles to Echo Reservoir. Bike, run, walk or ride your horse out there, passing the towns of Wanship and Coalville, historic sites and traveling through epic mountain scenery along the way.
Entry Fee & Camping Reservations
A day-use entry fee is required, purchase in-person or online. The Annual Utah State Park Pass is accepted for park entry. Advance camping reservations are recommended.
What's Nearby
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Jordanelle State Park
Jordanelle State Park is an ideal spot for Utah stand-up paddleboarding but also offers hiking, mountain biking, boating and more. Check it out!
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Rockport State Park
Find first-rate, year-round recreation at this northern Utah destination.
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Uinta-Wasatch-Cache National Forest
The Uinta-Wasatch-Cache National Forest (UWCNF) encompasses Utah's Wasatch Mountains adjacent to the state's northern metropolitan area, and the north slope of the High Uintas Wilderness.
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Wasatch Mountain State Park
Year-round family adventure awaits. In the warmer months, hit the hiking or biking trails, or reserve a tee time at the golf courses. In the winter, ski or snowmobile through the alpine terrain.
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