Overview
The Johnson Valley Rim Trail explores one of the quieter corners of Fishlake National Forest, following the western edge of Johnson Valley through a landscape of high-plateau meadows, dense aspen groves, and open rim viewpoints. South of Fish Lake, this area sees far fewer visitors than the main lake corridor, making it one of the better options for anyone seeking solitude on a moderate day hike.
The trail begins near the rim of the plateau, climbs gently through a transition zone of aspen and spruce, and then follows the rim for several miles with periodic views west into the canyon lands below. Mule deer and wild turkey are common sightings, and the meadow wildflower display from mid-July through early August is worth the drive from Richfield on its own.
The Route
Trailhead to First Viewpoint (Miles 0-1.2) The trail starts off UT-62 and climbs the initial rise through open meadow before entering a dense aspen corridor. The grade is moderate for the first mile, then levels as the route approaches the rim. At mile 1.2, the first significant western viewpoint opens across the canyon country toward the Sevier Valley.
Rim Walking Section (Miles 1.2-2.9) From the first viewpoint, the trail follows the rim with minimal elevation change. The views vary from wide canyon panoramas to close-in meadow sections where the rim pulls back from the edge. Look for wild turkey in the meadow clearings, especially in early morning. Several informal social trails lead to additional rim edges; stay on the main path to protect the fragile edge vegetation.
Turnaround at North Meadow (Mile 2.9) The designated turnaround is at a large open meadow where the trail becomes indistinct in the grass. A post marks the end of maintained trail. The meadow itself is worth the walk: a broad, flat opening in the aspen with views back south toward the plateau rim. Return the way you came.
When to Hike
June opens the season as snowmelt clears the high meadows. Mornings are cool and the aspen are freshly leafed out.
July and August offer peak wildflower color in the meadow sections. Afternoon thunderstorms are common, so start early. The trail is mostly below open ridgeline, reducing (but not eliminating) lightning exposure.
September and October are the best months for crowd avoidance and aspen color. Nights drop below freezing in October, so plan accordingly if camping nearby.
What to Bring
Many hikers carry 1.5 to 2 liters of water for this route. There are no water sources on the trail. Light hiking shoes or trail runners are adequate for the well-compacted surface. A camera rewards the wildflower and wildlife opportunities. Individual water and food needs vary by the conditions and personal pace.
Trailhead Access
The trailhead is on UT-62 south of Antimony in Garfield County. The road is paved and passenger-car accessible. No permit or fee is required as of 2026. Dogs are welcome on leash. No restroom or water is available at the trailhead. The nearest services are in Antimony, a very small community with limited amenities, and Richfield, about 45 miles north.
Nearby
The Pelican Canyon Trail offers a contrasting canyon hike on the south end of the forest. The Fish Lake Loop is about 20 miles north near Fish Lake and makes a good second stop on a full-day outing. Practice Leave No Trace in the fragile rim-edge meadows: /learn/leave-no-trace-7-principles.