Red Reef Trail
A scenic Southern Utah hike through a red rock canyon, featuring seasonal waterfalls and a fun rock scramble.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Waterfalls flow, fewer crowds
Red Reef Trail
Best Time
Waterfalls flow, fewer crowds
Highlights
Must-see attractions
A scenic Southern Utah hike through a red rock canyon, featuring seasonal waterfalls and a fun rock scramble.
"This is a great local hike, perfect for families with young children!"
🚗 Entrance Fee & Passes
A $5 per vehicle fee applies, but National Park/Interagency passes are accepted.
👟 Footwear for the Climb
Wear shoes with good grip for the rock scramble; avoid wet shoes that can cause slips.
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
Cascading Waterfalls
Along the trail
Witness stunning seasonal waterfalls carving through the red rock canyon after rain or snowmelt.
Red Rock Canyon Scenery
Throughout the trail
Immerse yourself in the vibrant hues of a classic Southern Utah red rock canyon.
The Rock Scramble
Upper section of the trail
A fun, moderately challenging climb with natural handholds and footholds to reach higher pools.
Dinosaur Tracks
Near the trailhead
Discover ancient dinosaur footprints, a hit with younger explorers.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Timing is Everything for Waterfalls
Beat the Crowds & Conquer the Climb
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
🚗 Entrance Fee & Passes
A $5 per vehicle fee applies, but National Park/Interagency passes are accepted.
👟 Footwear for the Climb
Wear shoes with good grip for the rock scramble; avoid wet shoes that can cause slips.
💧 Water Levels Vary
Waterfalls are seasonal. Check recent conditions if flowing water is a must-see.
🗺️ Trail Navigation
Well-marked until the creek, then follow the creek bed to the left.
Tips
from all over the internet
🚗 Entrance Fee & Passes
A $5 per vehicle fee applies, but National Park/Interagency passes are accepted.
👟 Footwear for the Climb
Wear shoes with good grip for the rock scramble; avoid wet shoes that can cause slips.
💧 Water Levels Vary
Waterfalls are seasonal. Check recent conditions if flowing water is a must-see.
🗺️ Trail Navigation
Well-marked until the creek, then follow the creek bed to the left.
🎶 Unique Encounters
You might hear live music from local musicians playing flutes or drums. +1
🐾 Dog-Friendly Trail
Leashed dogs are welcome on this scenic hike.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors rave about the Red Reef Trail's stunning red rock scenery and its family-friendly nature. Many appreciate the manageable hike and the unique features like seasonal waterfalls and dinosaur tracks. Some find the rock scramble challenging, especially when wet, and note that water levels are highly variable.
"This was beautiful! We went mid to late September, around 10am on a Saturday morning. There weren’t many people there, the weather was nice and the hike wasn’t too strenuous. The waterfalls and most of the stream beds were dry. We had 4 adults, 3 teen boys and 2 youngest kids. The only part that was difficult was the rock ladder (no rope ladder when we went). We let the men and boys go ahead and we waited for them.
If you go up a different trail, you’ll find Carey. He comes up about 3 times a week to play different flutes and drums. He let our kids play the drums and shaker. It was a little surreal to hear Native music in the middle of red rocks. It was awesome!"
Katie K.
"For a nice local hike this is a great spot!
Lots of families hiking, super easy trail, in-out in less than an 1.5hrs.
Camping on site. Tents and smaller RVs.
Lots of picnic areas.
Dino tracks to see (exciting for little ones more than adults IMO).
The pools at the end are very cool, and I imagine quite full in the right seasons.
Dog friendly trail.
And a very busy trail at that.
We went on a weekday so can't imagine the fullness on a weekend, and in season."
Lea Rose Bell
"Beautiful, easy short walk until you get to where there's a big rock with steps that you need to climb to get further. Climbing over the rock is a bit tricky, but if you take your time, it can be done. It's a popular trail for families with young children. Go early if you want to avoid the crowds."
Teresa Yu
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
The Red Reef Trail is located about 15 miles north of St. George, Utah, near Leeds. Simply add 'Red Reef Trail' to Google Maps for directions to the trailhead.
Yes, there is parking available at the trailhead. Camping is also available on-site for tents and smaller RVs.
The drive is scenic, but be aware of a wooden bridge you'll need to cross to reach the trailhead, which some visitors have noted appears to need renovation.
Yes, Red Reef Trail is a popular destination for those visiting the Hurricane, Utah area and Southern Utah.
No, Red Reef Trail is located in the Red Cliffs National Conservation Area, near Zion National Park, but it is a separate area.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
There is a $5 entrance fee per vehicle. However, if you possess a National Park or Interagency Pass, entry is free.
The trail is generally accessible during daylight hours. It's recommended to visit during the day for safety and visibility.
No advance booking is typically required for the Red Reef Trail. It operates on a first-come, first-served basis for parking and access.
Yes, National Park and Interagency passes are accepted and will waive the $5 entrance fee.
The trail is generally open year-round, but conditions can vary. It's always a good idea to check local weather and trail reports, especially after heavy storms.
🎫 🚶 Onsite Experience
The Red Reef Trail is considered easy to moderate. The initial part is a straightforward walk, but it involves a rock scramble with natural handholds and footholds to reach the upper pools. +1
The trail is approximately 2.2 miles round trip, with an elevation gain of about 219 feet.
Yes, it's a very popular family-friendly hike, suitable for kids of all ages. The roped-off trail until the water and the dinosaur tracks are particularly engaging for younger visitors. +1
Comfortable hiking attire is recommended. Crucially, wear shoes with excellent grip for the rock scramble. Avoid wearing shoes that have gotten wet, as this can lead to slips.
Restroom facilities are available at the trailhead, making it convenient for families and day-trippers.
📸 📸 Photography
The trail offers stunning red rock canyon views, seasonal waterfalls, and unique rock formations. The rock scramble itself can also make for dramatic shots.
Early morning or late afternoon light provides the most dramatic and flattering illumination for the red rock scenery.
Yes, the dinosaur tracks are a unique feature and a great subject for photos, especially for families.
Drone usage is typically restricted in conservation areas like Red Cliffs National Conservation Area. It's best to check specific regulations before flying.
A wide-angle lens is great for capturing the canyon vistas, while a zoom lens can be useful for details. A sturdy tripod can help with low-light conditions or capturing flowing water.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
+1 The trail is relatively short (about 2.2 miles round trip) and mostly easy, with the main challenge being a fun rock scramble that kids often enjoy. 💰 Budget Travelers
🐶 Dog Owners
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
The Seasonal Magic of Red Reef Trail's Water
+1 The water creates a dynamic and ever-changing landscape, making each visit potentially unique. However, by late spring and into the summer months, the water can dry up considerably, leaving behind beautiful, but dry, creek beds. Even without flowing water, the trail remains a stunning hike through a classic Southern Utah red rock canyon. The vibrant red sandstone formations offer breathtaking scenery year-round. For those seeking the visual spectacle of waterfalls, planning a trip during the wetter seasons or checking recent local conditions is highly recommended.
+1 The trail's beauty is undeniable, whether it's adorned with flowing water or showcasing the stark, majestic desert landscape. Navigating the Red Reef Trail Rock Scramble
Travelers often emphasize the importance of appropriate footwear for this part of the trail. Shoes with good grip are essential, and it's strongly advised to avoid wearing shoes that have become wet, as this significantly increases the risk of slipping and potential injury.
Despite the challenge, the reward of reaching the upper pools and enjoying the unique canyon environment makes the scramble worthwhile for many. It's a memorable part of the hike that adds an element of accomplishment to the experience.
A Family-Friendly Gem with Surprises
Beyond the dinosaur tracks, the trail offers a sense of adventure that appeals to all ages. The roped-off sections until the water, the potential for splashing in pools (when water is present), and the unique rock scramble all contribute to a fun and memorable experience.
+1 The relatively short distance and manageable elevation gain make it feasible for most families to complete without excessive fatigue. +1Adding to the trail's charm are the unexpected encounters. Some visitors have reported stumbling upon local musicians playing flutes or drums in a large cave opening, creating a surreal and delightful atmosphere.
Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit