Colorado · Hiking · Mount Zirkel Wilderness

Fish Hawk

2.3 mi
round trip
25 ft
climb
10,026 ft
high point
Out and back
route

Fish Hawk is an easy out-and-back hike in Colorado's Mount Zirkel Wilderness, within the Hahns Peak-Bears Ears Ranger District of the Medicine Bow-Routt National Forest. The trail is managed by the Forest Service and runs about 2.3 miles, with a low point of 9,688 feet and a high of 10,026 feet. The climb is gentle, with a total elevation gain of about 25 feet, so the route is suited to a short walk rather than a serious ascent. The trail is on natural surface and allows horses, but bikes are not permitted. It is open year-round, and the surrounding wilderness makes it a natural base for exploring the surrounding peaks and waterways. Summer is the most comfortable time to go. Typical averages from a nearby weather station show July highs around 73°F with lows near 40°F, while winter highs stay in the low 30s. That station sits about 1,000 feet below the trail, so temperatures on the route run cooler. Nearby, Big Creek Lake(hp) is about 1.7 miles away and South Fork Mad Creek is about 1.8 miles away for paddling. Crags is about 2.3 miles away, and Dry Lake Campground is about 7 miles away for an overnight stay.