Best Hikes in Fishlake National Forest (UT)

Fishlake National Forest Overview

The Fishlake National Forest in central Utah features majestic stands of aspen encircling open mountain meadows that are lush with a diverse community of forbs and grasses. Fish Lake, from which the forest takes its name, is considered by many to be the gem of Utah. The largest natural mountain lake in the state, it offers trophy fishing and bird watching. The mountains of the Fishlake are a source of water for many of the neighboring communities and agricultural valleys in the region. Elk, deer, black bear, cougar and moose can be found in the Forest, as well as wild turkey and mountain goats. There are only 20 hiking and riding trails within the forest. The best hikes in Fishlake National Forest are described below.

StateUtah
Nearest Metro AreaProvo, UT
Area Size1,461,226 acres
EstablishedJuly 1, 1908
Hiking Trails167 miles

Trailhead Traveler’s Recommended Best Hikes in Fishlake National Forest

(*** = Best hikes in Fishlake National Forest)

Blind Lake Trail – 7.6 miles out and back

Somewhat challenging trail that climbs up to a beautiful, secluded alpine lake near Torrey, UT. The distance may be shortened depending on how close your car can get past the 1st trailhead. A 4×4 clearance vehicle might be needed. 

Bullion Falls Trail*** – 2.0 miles out and back
Bullion Falls_Fishlake NF_Mike Elson
Bullion Falls, Photo by Mike Elson

Bullion Waterfalls is a beautiful and majestic system of waterfalls where hikers can overlook the massive 75 foot falls. The falls are fed by year round melting snowdrifts that adorn parts of Bullion Canyon. Access to Bullion Falls is by horse or foot only and is approximately one mile from the Pine Creek bridge. The Bullion Canyon Trails System is made up of five rugged, periodically maintained, and well-signed trails. They provide the hiker or bicycle rider a 10 to 12 mile round trip loop.  

Delano Ridgeline Trail to Delano Peak*** – 3.0 miles out and back
Delano Peak, Photo by Ken Lund

Just below the summit of the #224 trailhead there is a parking area, where you can park you car, truck, or horse trailer and take the Delano Ridgeline Trail, which heads southeast to Delano Peak. This trail offers a more gradual elevation gain than the #224 trail from the east which is much steeper. At over 12,000′, the summit is a worthy goal for peak baggers though not too difficult which results in many visitors each year. There are great views from the top in all directions!

Lakeshore National Recreation Trail*** – 15.0 mile loop
Widgeon Bay on the Fish Lake, Photo by Scenic25

The Lakeshore National Recreation Trail, comprising four distinct sections, offers a variety of experiences for visitors to the Fish Lake Basin on the Fishlake National Forest. Visitors may wish to experience a portion of the trail or its entirety. Summer and fall are the best time to visit, with fall being a popular time to take in the autumn beauty of Fish Lake.

Middle Ranger Trail – 5.5 miles out and back
Sunglow Campground, Photo by runt35

Beautiful and easy hike near the Sunglow Campground through Crescent Canyon and Red Canyon. The views and the red walls of the slot canyon are incredibly beautiful throughout. This trail is also very peaceful as there are few visitors here. There is another short, unmaintained slot canyon trail just north of the campground that would be an easy add on if in the area for this hike!

Featured Image: Fishlake National Forest, Photo by On^ste82

Don’t forget to stock up on the essentials before you plan your next hiking or camping trip! We have recommendations on:
TENTS
HIKING BOOTS
AND MORE!

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