Lower Calf Creek Falls

The Trail

This popular trail is a moderate 3 miles (one way). There is only a 170 foot elevation change, but the trail goes up and down a fair amount within that. The trail also has a lot of sections of deep sand, which can be tiring to hike through. The more weight you are carrying, the more strenuous these sections are to hike through.

Topographical Map

Graph of Elevation

Trail in Google Earth

The trail actually starts down a road for a campground but quickly heads off from there as a dirt and sand path. There isn't a great deal of shade on the trail, but the amount can vary depending on the time you go.

There is plenty to see of interest along the trail, from the beautifully formed rocks and canyon walls streaked with desert varnish, to the bright wildflowers and plant life. There are beaver dams, some Indian petroglyphs (view point for those marked by green dot on the topographical map), ancient granaries built into the canyon walls, and a variety of birds (making the area popular for bird watching). Hikers can pick up a trail guide available at the beginning of the trail that will point out some of these things along the way.

Prickly Pear Cactus

Petroglyphs on canyon wall across from the trail

Desert Varnish streaked on
canyon walls

The trail flattens out some right before hikers reach the waterfall. Before arriving at its base, the top of the waterfall is visible above the trees.

First view of waterfall from trail

The waterfall itself cascades down a 126 foot drop, and its path is highlighted by bright green algae growing on the rocks. The cold calm water filling the pool below the falls creates a popular swimming spot. There is a small sandy beach area around the pool surrounded by a number of trees that provide shade on the sidelines.

Lower Calf Creek Falls

Note: When we did this trail, we found the parking lot for it was not made well and can be very messy when it is hot. When it heats up, there are patches of sticky tar all over that gets stuck on the bottom of your shoes.

Alcove near falls

Directions

This trail is located in Garfield County in the Grand Staircase-Escalante National Monument. The trail is right off UT-12. To get there from I-15, take Exit 188 to get onto US-50. Get off US-50 at UT-260. From there get onto UT-24 and continue to UT-12. Turn right onto UT-12 and continue 48 miles to the "Calf Creek recreation Area." Turn right to drive down into the parking lot. There is a small fee to park here and use the area ($2.00 as of 2012 for day use).