Overview
Pelican Canyon offers a different landscape from the open aspen plateau that defines most of Fishlake National Forest. The trail descends from the plateau rim into a narrow canyon carved by a seasonal tributary of the Fremont River system. The canyon floor holds a riparian zone of cottonwood, willow, and Gambel oak, providing habitat and scenery that feels distinctly different from the aspen groves above.
This trail suits hikers who want some variety after spending time on the lake loop or the open ridge trails. The descent into the canyon is gradual and well-marked; the climb back out provides the main workout. Spring and early summer visits catch the creek at its fullest and the riparian birds at peak activity.
The Route
Trailhead to Rim Edge (Miles 0-0.6) The trail begins on Forest Road 046 and traverses south across the plateau surface through mixed aspen and sage before reaching the canyon rim. The first viewpoint down into Pelican Canyon comes at about 0.6 miles, where the canyon cuts sharply into the plateau.
Rim Descent to Canyon Floor (Miles 0.6-1.8) The descent into the canyon is the most demanding portion of the hike, dropping roughly 600 feet over 1.2 miles via well-cut switchbacks through pinyon-juniper on the canyon walls. The trail is loose in places; trekking poles are helpful on the way down and especially on the climb back up.
Canyon Floor (Miles 1.8-2.1) The trail levels at the canyon floor and follows the seasonal creek upstream for about 0.3 miles. Cottonwood and willow shade the corridor in summer. This is the best spot to stop for lunch, watch birds, and listen to the creek (when running). The turnaround is at a seasonal tributary junction where the main trail ends. Return by the same route.
When to Hike
May and June are the best months for creek flow and spring migration birds. Yellow warblers, Wilson's warblers, and western wood-pewees are common in the riparian corridor.
July through September the creek may reduce to isolated pools by late summer. The descent remains worthwhile for the canyon geology and shade, but check conditions at /learn/checking-conditions-before-you-go in late summer.
October brings cottonwood fall color in the canyon, often brighter than the aspen above. The creek is usually dry or minimal by then, but the color can be striking.
What to Bring
Many hikers carry 1.5 liters of water since the canyon creek is not reliably suitable for drinking without treatment. Trekking poles are genuinely useful on the loose switchback descent. Light footwear works for this trail in dry conditions; waterproof shoes add value in early season when creek crossings are needed. Individual water needs vary by conditions and pace.
Trailhead Access
The trailhead is accessed via Forest Road 046, a rough gravel road south of Fish Lake off UT-25. High-clearance vehicles are recommended; the road has large ruts after wet weather. No permit or fee is required as of 2026. Dogs are welcome on leash. No restroom or treated water is available at the trailhead.
Nearby
The Fish Lake Loop is about 15 minutes north and makes a natural pairing for a day with contrasting terrain. The Johnson Valley Rim Trail is in the same southern portion of the forest and offers plateau meadow walking as a counterpoint to this canyon route. Carry out all trash and follow Leave No Trace in the riparian canyon: /learn/leave-no-trace-7-principles.