FISH CREEK CANYON WILDERNESS STUDY AREA

Values

The four main canyons of this WSA are up to 700 feet deep. The canyons meander somewhat and contain numerous rock fins, alcoves, pinnacles, step-like pour offs on the canyon floors, and impressive natural arches. In addition to pinyon-juniper woodland and sagebrush, desert shrubs are common. Ponderosa pine is found in the drainages of the northern part of the WSA. The WSA includes land extensively occupied by Ancestral Puebloan dwellers from about 200 A.D. to 1300 A.D. A stabilized archeological site, Comb Wash Overlook, has 4 tower bases, a wall on the mesa rim, and rock shelter dwellings below. The Hole in the Rock Trail, the route followed by the Mormon settlers in 1879 to 1880, forms most of this unit’s southern boundary..

Visitation Information

Located in San Juan County, about 40 miles southwest of Blanding, UT and just south of the Kane Gulch Ranger Station. To reach the Fish and Owl Trailhead, from Blanding drive south on Highway 191 and turn right (west) onto Highway 95, continuing west for 28.4 miles. Turn left (south) onto Highway 261 and travel 4.9 miles, passing the Kane Gulch Ranger Station. Turn left onto Fish and Owl Canyon Road (B253) and travel 5.2 miles to the trailhead. The south end of the Fish Creek Canyon WSA, including McLoyd Canyon Trailhead, is accessible from the Snow Flat Road (B237), between Highway 295 and the Comb Wash Road. The Hole in the Rock Trail, the route followed by the Mormon settlers in 1879 to 1880, forms most of this WSA’s southern boundary.

Visitor Advisory

Visitors should come prepared for backcountry conditions and adequately prepare for their trip. Knowledge of weather, terrain, and physical conditions can help ensure safety.