Jones Hole National Fish Hatchery
Discover a hidden gem where a scenic drive leads to a captivating canyon, a rewarding waterfall hike, and a fascinating fish hatchery.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Pleasant temps, fewer crowds
Jones Hole National Fish Hatchery
Best Time
Pleasant temps, fewer crowds
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Discover a hidden gem where a scenic drive leads to a captivating canyon, a rewarding waterfall hike, and a fascinating fish hatchery.
"A surprise gem with awe-inspiring deep canyons and unreal vistas, a truly picture-worthy spot."
💧 Bring Plenty of Water
The 14-mile round trip hike can be demanding; stay hydrated!
👟 Sturdy Hiking Shoes
Essential for navigating the varied terrain along the river and canyon.
Quick Facts
Hours
Rating
4.6 · 95 reviews
Type
Ranch
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
Jones Hole Waterfall
Trailhead at the hatchery
A picturesque cascade offering a rewarding destination on a scenic canyon trail.
Green River Access
End of the main trail
Reach the tranquil Green River for stunning canyon views and a peaceful natural setting.
Ancient Petroglyphs
Along the hiking trails
Discover fascinating ancient rock art, adding a historical dimension to your hike.
The Hatchery Experience
Jones Hole National Fish Hatchery
Observe fish in various stages of development and learn about conservation efforts.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Timing is Everything
Hike Smart, Hike Safe
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
💧 Bring Plenty of Water
The 14-mile round trip hike can be demanding; stay hydrated!
👟 Sturdy Hiking Shoes
Essential for navigating the varied terrain along the river and canyon.
🧥 Dress in Layers
Mornings can be chilly, especially in cooler months.
🐿️ Watch for Wildlife
Deer, bighorn sheep, and squirrels are common sightings!
Tips
from all over the internet
💧 Bring Plenty of Water
The 14-mile round trip hike can be demanding; stay hydrated!
👟 Sturdy Hiking Shoes
Essential for navigating the varied terrain along the river and canyon.
🧥 Dress in Layers
Mornings can be chilly, especially in cooler months.
🐿️ Watch for Wildlife
Deer, bighorn sheep, and squirrels are common sightings!
🚗 Amazing Scenic Drive
The drive to the hatchery itself is a highlight with stunning vistas.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors rave about the stunning canyon scenery and the rewarding hike to Jones Hole Waterfall. The drive to the hatchery is a highlight, offering breathtaking vistas. While the trails are generally easy, the length requires preparation, and some mention encountering Mormon crickets during certain times of the year.
"Fun place to take the kids and explore. The hatchery is fun to see as well. We arrived at the tail end of the Mormon cricket invasion which terrified my kids a little. We have only hiked to the waterfall which is cool. You can keep going to the river. The drive down to the hatchery is also pretty amazing."
Justin B
"Beautiful place to enjoy trail walking with the family. The trail starts at the hatchery and goes for about 4 miles. It runs along side a river with a backdrop of tall sandstone canyon walls. We visited on a Sunday so there wasn't a lot of people. They also have public bathrooms."
Whitney Johansen
"What a beautiful hike. We loved watching the fish jump out of the water, and the wild animals were such a delight. We had so much fun on this hike, the sound of running water next to you is such tranquility. I felt so grounded, and close to nature on this hike. I recommend bringing a ton of water because it's a 14 mile hike round trip. We made 4 miles and turned around because we had little ones with us. The petroglyphs are amazing too. We passed 2 squirrels, 2 deer, 1 skunk, 1 bighorn sheep, and plenty of fish."
Sarah rodriguez
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
The hatchery is accessed via a scenic drive off Highway 40. The road leading to the hatchery is known for its dramatic canyon scenery and is an experience in itself.
The drive is generally well-maintained, but it can be winding. It's a beautiful route through changing terrain, offering impressive vistas.
Road conditions are typically good, but it's always wise to check local advisories, especially during winter months. The drive is part of the adventure!
Public transport is not available. A personal vehicle is required to reach the hatchery and surrounding trails.
Yes, there is parking available at the hatchery, which serves as the primary trailhead for many hikes.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
Entry to the hatchery and the surrounding trails is generally free. There are no admission fees required for visitors.
The hatchery grounds are typically open during daylight hours. It's best to check official sources for specific operating times, though the trails are accessible year-round.
No, there is no entrance fee for hiking the trails that start from the hatchery. Enjoy the natural beauty without any cost.
While there aren't typically formal tours, you can explore the hatchery at your own pace and observe the fish.
No specific permits are usually required for day hiking on the trails. However, always check for any local regulations or alerts.
🎫 🧭 Onsite Experience
You can explore the fish hatchery, hike to the Jones Hole Waterfall, access the Green River, and discover ancient petroglyphs. It's a great spot for nature walks and wildlife viewing. +1
The hike to the waterfall is approximately 4 miles round trip from the hatchery, making it an accessible option for many.
While you can access the Green River, swimming conditions can vary, and it's important to be aware of currents. The river access offers beautiful views.
Yes, public restrooms are available at the hatchery, which is convenient for visitors.
Visitors often report seeing squirrels, deer, skunks, bighorn sheep, and numerous fish in the hatchery and along the trails.
📸 📸 Photography
The canyon vistas, the waterfall, the Green River, and the petroglyphs are all incredibly photogenic. The drive in also offers stunning landscape shots.
Early morning and late afternoon provide the best lighting for photography, creating dramatic shadows and warm tones in the canyon.
Yes, you can take photos of the fish at the hatchery. It's a unique opportunity to capture aquatic life up close.
Drone usage is typically restricted in national parks and protected areas. It's best to check with the relevant authorities before flying a drone.
A wide-angle lens is great for capturing the expansive canyon views, while a telephoto lens can be useful for wildlife. A sturdy tripod can help with low-light shots.
Social
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