A 1,250-acre high-mountain lake at 8,400 feet on Scenic Byway 143 between Panguitch and Brian Head, ringed by lava flows and pine forest. It is one of Southern Utah's premier trout fisheries — the name comes from the Paiute word for 'big fish' — with lodges, campgrounds, and marinas along its shore, plus renowned ice fishing in winter.
| Category | Point of Interest |
|---|---|
| Nearest town | Panguitch |
| Top activities | Rainbow and cutthroat trout fishing, Boating and kayaking, Ice fishing in winter, Camping at Forest Service and private campgrounds, ATV trail access to the Markagunt Plateau |
| Best time to visit | June through September for open-water fishing and camping; January-February for the ice fishing derby season. |
| Entrance fee | Free (campground and launch fees apply) |
| Permits | Utah fishing license required to fish. SR-143 is paved and open year-round; winter storms can require snow tires. |
Visitor tip: Fish early morning near the lava-rock shorelines on the south side — and in winter, check ice conditions with local lodges before walking out; the annual ice derby usually runs in January.
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