Pets allowed
Allowed with Restrictions
Elevation Gain
288.00 ft (87.78 m)
Trail type
There-and-back
Distance
4.50 mi (7.24 km)
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The Fishhook Creek Trail is an excellent 4.5-mile family-friendly hike for those seeking a relaxing setting and views. Although the trail has only obstructed views until the very end of the 2.2-mile (each way) trail, the route passes through pleasant forest alongside the calming Fishhook Creek until reaching the final viewpoint.

The trail departs from the Redfish Lake Trailhead, which has room for several dozen cars but can fill up on the busiest summer weekends. From the parking lot, cross Redfish Point Campground Road and reach the beginning of the trail. Continue past the large signs along the trail, which begins slightly uphill before leveling out and reaching a junction with the Redfish Creek-Baron Creek Trail at 0.4 miles; continue straight along Fishhook Creek. At 0.8 another trail, the Marshall Lake Cutoff, branches off to the right; again continue straight along Fishhook Creek.

The trail continues gently uphill, passing through forest and meadows for 2.2 miles, until the trail ends at a widening of Fishhook Creek that affords beautiful views of the surrounding mountains, including Thompson Peak, Horstmann Peak, and more. After enjoying the views, the route returns to the parking lot via the same trail for a round-trip total of about 4.5 miles.

Winter camping opportunities are also present on the Fishhook Creek Trail. In winter, campers can rent a yurt that is maintained near the end of the trail. However, it often fills months in advance and should be booked early!

The Fishhook Creek Trail is a great option for beginners, younger hikers, or families. Its gentle grade and reasonable distance makes it a suitable half-day trip for casual hikers, and hikers of all abilities will enjoy the great views and serene forest setting.

Logistics + Planning

Preferable season(s)

Summer
Fall

Congestion

High

Parking Pass

None

Open Year-round

Yes

Pros

Beautiful views. Flat, non-technical trail. Easily accessible in summer.

Cons

Trailhead fills on weekends. Can be very busy.

Trailhead Elevation

6,562.00 ft (2,000.10 m)

Highest point

6,838.00 ft (2,084.22 m)

Features

Near lake or river
Family friendly
Backcountry camping
Waterfalls
Big vistas
Wildflowers
Old-growth forest

Typically multi-day

No

Permit required

No

Location

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