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Fishhook Creek Trail

Stanley, Idaho

5.0/5
based on 2 reviews

Details

Distance

4.5 miles

Elevation Gain

233 ft

Route Type

Out-and-Back

Description

Added by Ross Miller

Fishhook Creek Trail is a short, family-friendly hike and the easiest way to get out and view the magnificence of the Sawtooth Mountains. A gentle 22.5 mi out-and-back trail (4.5 mi total) takes you along a meandering creek under a canopy of pine trees to a meadow scene so beautiful, you'll not soon forget.

This easy hike starts off from the dirt parking lot near Redfish Lake Lodge. Two small footpaths lead away from the far end of the parking lot crossing the road to the lodge just down to the left. The right trail will take you straight to the Fishhook Creek Trailhead, while the left trail will give a short detour over a downed log into a nice wooded area with fantastic photo opportunities of Fishhook Creek. From the left trail, follow the creek upstream to the right a hundred yards to re-connect with the main trail at the edge of the wood.

After a short 0.3 mi climb up through the sagebrush and a few aspens, stay straight at the T, as crossing the bridge to the left will take you on a much longer hike around Redfish Lake.

Another 0.4 mi up, stay straight/left at the T (extension, see below) as the trail levels out for a nice mellow walk through forest and meadows. The area experienced a beetle-kill to the lodgepole pine recently, so you'll notice a number of trees dead or downed, possibly requiring you to step over one or two. Be sure to stop and enjoy the views of the meandering creek as you go by, and notice the wildflowers and wildlife you may see along the way.

After a relaxing 45min, you'll arrive at "The Beaver Ponds" with a wide open view of Fishhook Creek Meadow. 10,229 ft Heyburn Mountain and 10,470 ft Horstmann Peak command attention in the distance, making for a fantastic photo backdrop.

Wander just a few dozen yards left to the creek's edge, where you can make your way carefully through the meadow up to a small waterfall/beaver dam in the clearing. You're here! Rest your feet, enjoy some snacks, and relax in the beauty of the Sawtooths!

For a great extension to this hike, especially in early fall, climb up the ridge on the right at the second T. Through an abundance of aspen trees, the trail climbs 500 ft in 0.6 mi to another junction. Turn left here to arrive at a viewpoint overlooking Fishhook Creek Meadow and gaze deep into the Sawtooth Range.

To get back, return the way you came, and while you're at it, head down to Redfish Lake Lodge for great beachfront access to the lake and enjoy some fish tacos and swirl ice cream from the outdoor gazebo! Mmmm :)

Getting There:
Drive south from Stanley on Hwy 75 for 4.3 miles, then turn right on Redfish Lake Road. Drive 1.8 miles, past the horse corrals and employee housing area, continue straight just beyond a T in the road, and then turn into a large dirt parking area on the right.

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Features

Fishing
Photography
Hiking
Dog Friendly
Easy Parking
Family Friendly
Food Nearby
Forest
Groups
River
Scenic
Wildflowers
Wildlife

Fishhook Creek Trail Reviews

My husband and I were looking for an easy hike to take our dogs on and I'm so glad we chose this one. The hike is pretty easy but the views were amazing. Once you get into the meadow it's one best views of the Sawtooth mountains.

This hike has outsized views for it's length and effort. Beautiful at sunset!

Leave No Trace

Always practice Leave No Trace ethics on your adventures and follow local regulations. Please explore responsibly!

Nearby

Thompson Peak Trail

Marshall Ridge via Fishhook Creek Trailhead

Bench Lakes Trail

Photograph Redfish Lake at Dawn

Camp at Redfish Lake

Ski to Redfish Lake

Visit Idaho

Idaho is a picturesque state filled with beautiful scenery and warm, wonderful people. It's an ideal destination for family travelers, outdoor enthusiasts, adventure seekers, or those just looking for a relaxing getaway.

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