Fishhook Canyon: A Gateway to the Sawtooth Wilderness
Fishhook Canyon in Idaho’s Sawtooth Wilderness offers some of the most striking and beautiful scenery on the planet. Opportunities for mountain biking, climbing, hiking, backcountry skiing, and fishing are abundant.
For the fishing enthusiast, there are chances to catch Rainbow, Cutthroat, and Brook Trout, as well as Salmon. Backcountry skiing in the Thompson Peak Cirque and on Williams Peak will challenge skiers of all levels. Climbs of some of Idaho’s most famous and dramatic mountains—such as Thompson, Williams, and Horstman Peaks—will satisfy even the most adventurous. Challenging mountain biking to the wilderness boundary is also a bonus for those who love to ride.
Fishing
Fishing Fishhook Creek up to the beaver ponds usually provides opportunities for Brook Trout and Kokanee Salmon. Beyond the beaver ponds, fishing becomes non-existent. Even Stevens Lakes, as well as all the Barron Lakes, are fishless. All adjacent lakes and ponds in the surrounding canyons are also fishless—but undeniably beautiful. Marshall Lake, as well as all the Bench Lakes, offer only marginal opportunities for Brook Trout.
Hiking and Access
For those seeking an easy walk to a beautiful location, a stroll to the beaver ponds up Fishhook Canyon is ideal. For a more strenuous and scenic hike, take the junction to Marshall Lake. This trail follows a treeless ridge with extraordinary views of the Sawtooths’ highest summits.
Mountain bikes are only allowed on the Fishhook Trail up to the wilderness boundary and to a ridge just short of the Bench Lakes. Recent fires in the area may also present challenges due to deadfall.
