Stretching across 1.5 million acres of south-central Utah, Fishlake National Forest takes its name from Fish Lake—the largest natural mountain lake in the state. Established in 1908 through the merger of Fish Lake and Glenwood National Forests, this sprawling wilderness spans nine counties and four ranger districts, offering diverse terrain from alpine meadows to red rock canyons.
The forest’s most remarkable resident isn’t an animal but a tree: Pando, a massive quaking aspen clone covering 106 acres near Fish Lake. This single organism, connected by one root system, is considered one of the oldest and heaviest living things on Earth. Fall visitors witness Pando’s golden transformation, drawing photographers and nature enthusiasts each September and October.
Fish Lake itself sits at 8,800 feet elevation, providing excellent fishing for rainbow and brown trout, splake, and yellow perch. The lake’s crystal-clear waters and surrounding aspen groves make it a prime destination for kayaking, paddleboarding, and shoreline camping during summer months.
Hiking trails wind through the Tushar Mountains, where peaks exceed 12,000 feet. The Skyline National Recreation Trail traverses high ridges with panoramic views of central Utah’s basin and range landscape.
Primary access runs through Richfield, located along Interstate 70, making the forest reachable within a three-hour drive from Salt Lake City. Forest roads typically open by late May, with peak season running June through October. Winter brings snowmobiling and cross-country skiing opportunities at higher elevations.
Explore Nearby
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- Glenwood Open OHV Area — Public Land in Utah
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- Torrey, Utah — Dark Sky Site in Utah
