Fishlake National Forest

Fishlake National Forest

The largest natural mountain lake in Utah

Fishlake National Forest is a stunning natural wonderland located in south-central Utah. Renowned for its diverse landscapes, pristine lakes, and abundant wildlife, it offers a wealth of outdoor recreational opportunities including:

  • Fishing: Target trout, bass, and other fish species in the many lakes and streams.
  • Boating: Enjoy boating, kayaking, and paddleboarding on Fish Lake.
  • Camping: Set up camp under the stars and enjoy the peace and quiet of the wilderness. Or, stay at one of the resorts at Fishlake.

Wildlife Viewing: Observe wildlife in their natural habitat, including elk, deer, and birds.

Fishlake Features & Facts

  • Size: Covers approximately 1.5 million acres. 
  • Elevation: Ranges from 6,500 to 11,307 feet.
  • Wildlife: Home to a diverse range of wildlife, including elk, deer, moose, black bears, mountain lions, and various bird species. 
  • Pando: The world's largest organism, a massive clonal colony of quaking aspen trees. 

Fish Lake: The largest natural lake in Utah, offering excellent fishing and boating opportunities

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Fishlake National Forest
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    Fishlake National Forest 

    What To Do At Fishlake National Forest

    Aside from the Gooseberry Trails, there are several other snowmobiling options in and around Richfield.

    Hiking and Backpacking

    There are over 700 miles of Fishlake National Forest trails for hiking and backpacking. You can explore the forest's diverse terrain, from mountains to valleys, and encounter breathtaking views along the way. Some popular hikes include:

    • Twisted Forest: A moderate 2-mile hike that takes you through a unique grove of twisted trees.
    • Johnson Valley Reservoir Trail: A scenic 5-mile trail that offers stunning views of Johnson Valley Reservoir.
    • Crater Lake Trail: A challenging 8-mile hike that takes you to the top of Mount Terrill and offers panoramic views of Fish Lake.

    Fishing and Boating

    Fishlake National Forest is a paradise for anglers. With over 100 lakes, streams, and reservoirs, there's no shortage of fishing spots in Utah. Fish Lake itself is known for its trophy-sized trout, including rainbow, brook, lake, and cutthroat trout. You can also rent boats at the marina and explore the lake's hidden coves and channels. Be sure to check out local outfitters for a full Fishlake fishing experience!

    Lodging

    The forest offers a variety of camping options from primitive campgrounds to full-service resorts. Some recommended spots include:

    • Bowery Haven Resort: Located on the shores of Fish Lake, it offers cabins, RV sites, tent sites, boat rentals, and other amenities.
    • Fish Lake Lodge: In the heart of Fishlake National Forest with easy access to conveniences and outdoor recreation.
    • Gooseberry Campground: Perfect for Fishlake National Forest camping, this site offers picnic tables, fire rings, and vault toilets

    How To Get Here

    The main entrance to Fishlake National Forest is located in Richfield, Utah. From there, you can access the forest via scenic drives on Highway 24 and I-70. You can also fly into Salt Lake City International Airport, which is about two and a half hours away from Fishlake.

    What Fishlake National Forest Is Famous For

    Aside from its natural beauty and recreational offerings, Fishlake National Forest is famous for several unique features:

    • Pando: This massive clonal colony of quaking aspen trees covers 106 acres and is estimated to be over 9,000 years old.
    • Big Tree: Located in Fish Lake Canyon, this giant Ponderosa Pine tree has been designated as the largest living organism in Utah by the state legislature.
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    Address:

    Fish Lake, Utah

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