Embark on an unforgettable adventure through the heart of Utah’s most breathtaking landscapes. This ultimate waterfall road trip guides you to nine of the most incredible waterfalls in the southern half of the state, weaving through iconic national parks like Bryce Canyon, Canyonlands, and Zion.
Prepare yourself for a scenic route filled with towering red cliffs, lush valleys, and the soothing sounds of cascading waters—truly one of the most memorable road trips you can take out west!
Faux Falls
Location: Near Moab, Utah
Best Time to Visit: Spring and Fall
Nestled just a few miles south of Moab, Faux Falls is a hidden gem that offers a serene escape from the bustling tourist spots. Created as a diversion from Mill Creek to Ken’s Lake, this man-made waterfall cascades down a rugged cliffside into a tranquil pool below.
How to Get There:
- From Moab, head south on US-191 for about 8 miles.
- Turn left onto Old Airport Road and follow signs to Ken’s Lake.
- The trailhead is located near the campground parking area.
Trail Details:
- Difficulty: Easy to Moderate
- Distance: Approximately 1.5 miles round trip
- Highlights: Beautiful desert scenery, wildflowers, and panoramic views of the La Sal Mountains.
Mill Creek Falls
Location: Moab, Utah
Best Time to Visit: Late Spring to Early Fall
A local favorite, Mill Creek Falls offers a refreshing oasis amidst red rock canyons. The area features natural swimming holes and cascading waterfalls, making it a perfect spot to cool off during hot Utah summers.
How to Get There:
- From Moab, take Mill Creek Drive east until it turns into Sand Flats Road.
- Look for signs directing you to the Mill Creek North Fork Trailhead.
Trail Details:
- Difficulty: Moderate
- Distance: About 4 miles round trip
- Highlights: Petroglyphs, swimming spots, and lush vegetation along the creek.
Note: Portions of the trail can be slippery; water shoes are recommended.
Kanarra Falls
Location: Kanarraville, Utah
Best Time to Visit: Spring through Fall
Kanarra Falls is a spectacular slot canyon adventure featuring narrow passages and cascading waterfalls. The hike is both exhilarating and scenic, with wooden ladders aiding your ascent alongside the waterfalls.
How to Get There:
- Located off I-15, take Exit 51 to Kanarraville.
- Follow Main Street to the Kanarra Falls Trailhead parking lot.
Trail Details:
- Difficulty: Moderate
- Distance: Approximately 4.8 miles round trip
- Highlights: Slot canyons, crystal-clear streams, and unique ladder climbs.
Permit Required: Yes, permits can be purchased online or at the trailhead kiosk.
Toquerville Falls
Location: Near Toquerville, Utah
Best Time to Visit: Late Spring to Early Fall
Toquerville Falls offers a picturesque setting where two tiers of waterfalls spill over sandstone ledges into inviting pools below. It’s an ideal spot for a picnic, photography, or simply soaking in the natural beauty.
How to Get There:
- From Toquerville, head east on Spring Drive.
- The road turns into a rough dirt path; high-clearance vehicles are recommended.
Trail Details:
- Difficulty: Easy (if driving); Moderate (if hiking)
- Distance: 11-mile round trip if hiking
- Highlights: Off-road adventure, swimming holes, and stunning desert landscapes.
Falls at Mossy Cave Trail
Location: Bryce Canyon National Park
Best Time to Visit: Year-round
Located on the northern end of Bryce Canyon National Park, the Mossy Cave Trail leads you to a charming waterfall and a moss-lined grotto. It’s one of the few areas in the park where water flows consistently, offering a unique contrast to the surrounding hoodoos.
How to Get There:
- Access the trail from Highway 12, east of the main Bryce Canyon entrance.
- Parking is available at the trailhead.
Trail Details:
- Difficulty: Easy
- Distance: 0.8 miles round trip
- Highlights: Waterfall, mossy cave, and views of Bryce Canyon’s unique rock formations.
Emerald Pools Waterfalls
Location: Zion National Park
Best Time to Visit: Spring and Fall
The Emerald Pools Trail in Zion National Park features a series of waterfalls and pools, each with its own distinct beauty. The Lower, Middle, and Upper Emerald Pools offer varying levels of hiking difficulty and reward you with lush landscapes and serene water features.
How to Get There:
- Start at the Zion Lodge shuttle stop.
- Cross the road to access the trailhead.
Trail Details:
- Difficulty: Easy to Moderate
- Distance: 1.2 to 3 miles round trip, depending on how many pools you visit
- Highlights: Waterfalls, hanging gardens, and towering canyon walls.
Safety Tip: Stay on the trail and be cautious of slippery rocks near the water.
Archangel Falls
Location: The Subway, Zion National Park
Best Time to Visit: Late Spring to Early Fall
Archangel Falls is a cascading waterfall located along the Left Fork of North Creek, en route to the famous Subway formation in Zion National Park. The terraced falls flow over slickrock, creating a mesmerizing visual effect.
How to Get There:
- Access requires a strenuous hike and route-finding skills.
- A permit is required for the Subway hike, either from the top-down or bottom-up.
Trail Details:
- Difficulty: Strenuous
- Distance: Approximately 9 miles round trip (bottom-up approach)
- Highlights: Cascading falls, unique rock formations, and the Subway.
Permit Required: Yes, permits can be obtained through a lottery system.
Lower Calf Creek Falls
Location: Grand Staircase-Escalante National Monument
Best Time to Visit: Year-round
Lower Calf Creek Falls is a stunning 126-foot waterfall plunging into a crystal-clear pool, surrounded by verdant vegetation and towering canyon walls adorned with ancient pictographs.
How to Get There:
- Located off Highway 12 between Escalante and Boulder.
- Parking available at the Calf Creek Recreation Area.
Trail Details:
- Difficulty: Moderate
- Distance: 6 miles round trip
- Highlights: Native American ruins, wildlife sightings, and a refreshing swimming hole.
Upper Calf Creek Falls
Location: Grand Staircase-Escalante National Monument
Best Time to Visit: Spring and Fall
Less frequented than its lower counterpart, Upper Calf Creek Falls offers tranquility and equally captivating beauty. The waterfall descends 88 feet over slickrock into a serene pool.
How to Get There:
- Trailhead is about 1.5 miles north of the Lower Calf Creek Falls parking area on Highway 12.
- Look for a small parking area and trail marker.
Trail Details:
- Difficulty: Moderate to Strenuous (steep sections)
- Distance: Approximately 2 miles round trip
- Highlights: Secluded swimming spots, panoramic views, and unique desert flora.
Tips for the Journey
- Plan Ahead: Some trails require permits, so check in advance.
- Vehicle Preparation: A high-clearance vehicle is recommended for certain areas like Toquerville Falls.
- Stay Hydrated: Carry plenty of water, especially during summer months.
- Leave No Trace: Preserve the natural beauty by packing out what you pack in.
- Safety First: Keep an eye on weather forecasts; flash floods can occur in slot canyons.
Conclusion
Utah’s Ultimate Waterfall Road Trip is more than just a journey—it’s an immersive experience into some of the most awe-inspiring natural wonders the Western United States has to offer. From the tranquil pools of the Emerald Falls to the cascading beauty of Lower Calf Creek Falls, each stop along this route provides a unique glimpse into the diverse landscapes of southern Utah.
So pack your bags, fuel up your car, and set out on a road trip that promises adventure, serenity, and memories to last a lifetime. The waterfalls are waiting!
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