Lower Calf Creek Falls Escalante Utah
A stunning 126-foot waterfall in a desert oasis, reached by a scenic 6-mile hike through a sandstone canyon.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Comfortable temps, fewer crowds
Lower Calf Creek Falls Escalante Utah
Best Time
Comfortable temps, fewer crowds
Highlights
Must-see attractions
A stunning 126-foot waterfall in a desert oasis, reached by a scenic 6-mile hike through a sandstone canyon.
"Worth every step for the breathtaking 126-foot waterfall and lush canyon oasis."
Bring Plenty of Water! 💧
At least 2 liters per person is recommended for the 6-mile hike, especially in warmer months.
Go Early for Parking 🚗
The Calf Creek Recreation Area lot fills up quickly. Arrive before 9 AM to secure a spot.
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
Lower Calf Creek Falls
End of the trail
A breathtaking 126-foot waterfall cascading into a refreshing pool, a true desert oasis.
Scenic Canyon Hike
Trail to the falls
A 6-mile round trip trek through a stunning sandstone canyon with lush vegetation and ancient petroglyphs.
Natural Pool Swim
Base of the waterfall
Cool off in the natural pool at the base of the falls, a perfect reward after your hike.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Beat the Heat and Crowds
Safety First at the Falls
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
Bring Plenty of Water! 💧
At least 2 liters per person is recommended for the 6-mile hike, especially in warmer months.
Go Early for Parking 🚗
The Calf Creek Recreation Area lot fills up quickly. Arrive before 9 AM to secure a spot.
Dog-Friendly Trail 🐶
Well-behaved dogs on leash are welcome! Your furry friend will love the creek access.
Watch for Falling Rocks ⚠️
Be aware of your surroundings near the waterfall due to potential rockfalls.
Tips
from all over the internet
Bring Plenty of Water! 💧
At least 2 liters per person is recommended for the 6-mile hike, especially in warmer months.
Go Early for Parking 🚗
The Calf Creek Recreation Area lot fills up quickly. Arrive before 9 AM to secure a spot.
Dog-Friendly Trail 🐶
Well-behaved dogs on leash are welcome! Your furry friend will love the creek access.
Watch for Falling Rocks ⚠️
Be aware of your surroundings near the waterfall due to potential rockfalls.
Wear Sturdy Shoes :athletic_shoe:
Much of the trail is sandy, making it feel more strenuous than the mileage suggests.
Pack a Hammock :hammock:
Enjoy the shade and relax by the falls if you plan to stay awhile.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors consistently praise the spectacular beauty of Lower Calf Creek Falls and the scenic hike through the canyon. The refreshing pool at the base of the waterfall is a major draw, especially on hot days. However, some note the trail's sandy terrain can be more strenuous than expected, and the lack of shade makes midday summer hikes challenging. Awareness of potential rockfalls near the waterfall is also a recurring safety mention.
"Lower Calf Creek Falls is a beautiful and enjoyable hike. The trail is relatively easy, about 7 miles round trip, and offers stunning scenery along the way—towering canyon walls, cool creekside vegetation, and several beaver ponds that add an unexpected and peaceful touch to the landscape. The waterfall at the end is impressive and well worth the walk. It’s a rewarding experience and accessible to most hikers.
I am giving it one star less, however, due to the number of dogs on the trail. While many were well behaved, the volume of dogs made it harder to enjoy the quiet and natural atmosphere. It made me realize how much I appreciate hiking in National Parks, where dogs are not allowed and the experience feels more tranquil and undisturbed.
Overall, this is still a very worthwhile hike, especially if you enjoy scenic canyon landscapes, flowing water, and a beautiful waterfall destination."
Jacencius
"Arrive early for good parking to enjoy this well marked and easy to follow with interesting informational markers along the trail.
This is a 6 mile out and back that is moderately challenging due to the deep sand that you are trudging through.
Extremely beautiful and challenging with a waterfall reward at the end."
Jesse Chappell
"An amazing hike with rewarding end, a refreshing way to cool off in the hot sun.
There are some water faucets and bathrooms at the beginning of the trail. Bring water on the hike. The hike is easy enough that an in-shape 80 year old can do it and a 5 year old can do it (but it does have some slick spots)."
Ark teryx
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
The trailhead is located at the Calf Creek Recreation Area, accessible from Utah Scenic Byway 12, near the Calf Creek Campground. Parking is available at the lot. 
Yes, there is a parking lot at the Calf Creek Recreation Area. It can fill up quickly, especially during peak season, so arriving early is advised.
You can drive to the trailhead parking lot, but the hike itself is the only way to reach the falls.
The closest town is Escalante, Utah, which is a short drive from the trailhead. Boulder, Utah is also nearby.
The road to the Calf Creek Recreation Area and trailhead is generally paved and accessible for most vehicles.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
No permit is required for Lower Calf Creek Falls. Entry is typically free, or a small fee may apply for parking if you don't have a National Parks Pass.
The trail is generally accessible year-round during daylight hours. There are no set operating hours for the trail itself.
Entry to the trail is usually free. There might be a day-use fee for parking if you do not have a National Parks Pass.
Yes, Lower Calf Creek Falls is generally open year-round, though conditions can vary with seasons.
While not a National Park, some sources indicate a National Parks Pass may cover the parking fee. It's best to confirm on-site.
🎫 🥾 Onsite Experience
The hike is approximately 6 miles round trip, taking about 1.5 to 2 hours each way depending on your pace.
The hike is generally considered moderate due to its length and sandy terrain, though it has minimal elevation gain.
The trail has very limited shade for most of the hike, making it crucial to bring water and hike during cooler parts of the day.
Yes, you can swim in the pool at the base of the waterfall. It's a popular spot to cool off.
Restrooms are typically available at the trailhead parking area.
Wear comfortable hiking shoes suitable for sandy terrain, sun protection (hat, sunscreen), and layers as temperatures can change.
Yes, the trail passes by ancient petroglyphs, adding a historical and cultural element to the hike.
🎫 🐍 Wildlife & Safety
Yes, snakes have been spotted on the trail, so it's important to be aware of your surroundings and watch where you step.
While beautiful, there have been instances of rockfalls near the waterfall. Be mindful of the area and avoid lingering directly beneath the overhang.
Keep a safe distance and do not approach or attempt to handle the snake. Most snakes will avoid humans if given space.
Swimming is generally safe, but be aware of potential falling rocks from the cliff face above.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
Many families report seeing kids of all ages enjoying the trail. The presence of the creek offers a fun way for little ones to cool off and play, and the destination waterfall is a magical reward. 🐶 Dog Owners
The creek that runs alongside the trail provides ample opportunities for your dog to cool down and stay hydrated, especially on warmer days. 📸 Photographers
The early morning light can create beautiful shadows and highlights within the canyon, while the waterfall offers a dynamic subject with its cascading water. Don't forget to capture the ancient petroglyphs along the trail for a unique historical perspective. Consider bringing a wide-angle lens for the canyon vistas and a tripod for capturing the waterfall's motion blur. Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
The Hike to Lower Calf Creek Falls
+1 Many visitors note that the trail is largely exposed to the sun, making early morning or late afternoon hikes essential during warmer months to avoid the intense heat. One of the unique aspects of this hike is the presence of a creek that runs alongside much of the trail. This provides opportunities for dogs to cool off and can offer some relief from the heat for hikers.
Despite the challenges, the hike is widely regarded as incredibly rewarding. The ever-changing canyon scenery, the chance to see historical petroglyphs, and the ultimate destination of the waterfall make it a memorable adventure.
+1 It's a popular trail, so while going early helps with crowds and parking, you'll likely encounter other hikers enjoying this beautiful part of Utah. Safety and Environmental Considerations
The Bureau of Land Management (BLM) has issued warnings about these dangers, emphasizing that falling rocks can land in the water pool and along the shoreline. Visitors are advised to be vigilant and avoid lingering directly beneath the cliff face. Beyond the immediate waterfall area, hikers should also be aware of wildlife. Snakes have been spotted on the trail, so it's crucial to watch your step and avoid disturbing any creatures you encounter.
By being mindful of these safety and environmental factors, visitors can ensure a more enjoyable and responsible experience at Lower Calf Creek Falls.
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