Fishlake Scenic Byway, UT


State: Utah
Length: 29.6 mi / 47.6 km
Time to Allow: At least 45 minutes to 1 hour.

Fishlake Scenic Byway is unsurprisingly the best way to experience Fishlake National Forest in Utah. Don’t let the name Forrest put you off from this area, this byway winds through mountains and meadows showing you some of the most gorgeous examples of natural wildlife found in all of Utah. Not only do you get to wind your way through low foliage up to the mountain tops that are dotted with beautiful trees, but you can also experience the wide variety of wildlife that make their home within this forest. Not only can you see squirrels, birds, and other forms of common wildlife, but you can also see deer along the road, as well as moose and elk if you’re incredibly lucky. While the area is home to mountain lions, you are unlikely to see one; You are more likely to see a golden or bald eagle flying overhead as you make your way around this scenic drive.

If you’re looking to spend an entire day in the area, you’re in luck. Not only are there are plenty of walking and hiking trails available in this National Forest, but you can also experience Fish Lake, which gives this area its name. While this national byway may be a little out of the way when it comes to visiting other areas of Utah, the relative isolation makes for an incredible drive that allows you to see untouched areas of nature uninterrupted by the hustle and bustle of busier areas. Not only can you experience the nearby wonders, but there are plenty of other mountains, rivers, and forests nearby for you to enjoy as you drive to and from your destination.

If you find yourself exploring Fishlake National Forest during the summer, you will find yourself in a veritable wonderland of fishing, hunting, camping, hiking, prospecting, and more. Not only does this area offer horseback riding and off-road vehicle riding, but it is also home to several winter sports opportunities, should you find yourself in the area during the colder months. For those less adventurous folks, there are plenty of picnicking and outdoor learning areas, as well as nature viewing locations that allow you to take it slow and just experience the natural world around you, without jumping on something that’s motorized or making your way down a hill at a fast speed.

No matter if you’re simply looking to drive along the scenic byway and as you make your way to another area, or looking to spend an entire week in this National Forest, you’re sure to find yourself falling in love with this area, and will be planning your next trip long before you ever leave the area. No matter what kind of enjoyment you’re looking for, this byway offers access to a veritable gem at the heart of Utah that allows you to experience the natural world from the comfort of your car but also invites you to explore the wilderness up close at its camping locations as well as its day trip areas.

More Utah Byways

You can check out additional Byways in Utah by clicking on the list of byways below, or by going to the Utah Byways home section. To find even more of scenic byways in the United States, visit our scenic byways map.