Waterfall chasing is not an activity many would consider when visiting Utah, particularly in the red sandstone deserts of Utah. When in reality, Lower Calf Creek Falls proves that this scenery provides some spectacular opportunities for waterfall viewing. Located in Grand Staircase-Escalante National Monument, these 130-foot-high falls greet visitors at the end of a moderate hike of approximately 3 miles one way (trail length varies by source).
The Hike
The trail to Lower Calf Creek Falls winds along the edge of the canyon floor along the stream fed by the waterfall. It is relatively level hiking with less than 1,000 feet of elevation change over the length of the hike. The trail leads through open spaces where you take in views of the canyon. It also takes you through forested groves. Beaver ponds in the middle of the canyon provide prime locations for wildlife viewing, though maybe not of their makers. The vegetation is mixed with desert scrub and riparian wetland flora. And, if you keep a keen eye, you’ll find ancient petroglyphs and ruins of granaries on the canyon walls.
The Waterfall
After winding around and following the stream, you begin to hear the sound of the falls. Then, in an instant, maybe a quarter of a mile from your destination, you see through a break in the trees the towering waterfall tumbling over the cliff. This renews your excitement.
The narrow ribbon of water pouring over the cliff is a year-round occurrence. A pool at the bottom with a sandy bottom catches the clear water before it begins its journey along the path you just followed. You can take a dip and wade in, but be warned the water is chilly, even in the heat of summer. This makes for a lovely respite if hiking here in during Southern Utah’s warmest season.
You’ll find many other hikers here taking a break before returning from whence they came. Many bring a picnic to enjoy near the spray. Others hang hammocks and relax in the shade. Yet other intrepid souls venture into the deeper end of the pool under the actual falls themselves and swim across in the cold water.
The cliffs around the pool are covered with hanging gardens of moss and ferns that grow from the rock in the moistened environment. It truly is a little oasis in the maze of canyons that make up the Grand Staircase.
Visiting Lower Calf Creek Falls
To best experience the falls, if you are visiting the area in the high season (spring through fall), be sure to get there early. The parking area is small and limited, but if you arrive early, you can park and get on the trail before many other people start out. You may even get the falls to yourself for a short time. It is a fee area. You pay the fee at the parking area or display your America the Beautiful pass (or similar) in your car. Be sure to bring lots of water, especially in the summer.
