Lower Calf Creek Falls

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.

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.

Trail from the parking area to the falls has wonderful views of the canyon walls. Be aware that while it’s marked as a fairly easy trail much of it is in sand so it’s more work than the miles might indicate. We were there when it was cool but I can see in summer it would be hot with limited shade for most of the way. Falls itself are spectacular and worth the hike. Take water.

This is a beautiful hike. My dog loved it. It was about 75 degrees and cloudy and the first half of the trail was hot but the second half is a lot cooler as there is lots of shade and water. There’s a creek running along the trail so my pup was able to cool off many times to help with the heat. :) It’s April and was hot to hike I got lucky with the clouds I wouldn’t recommend hiking mid day in the summer.

Arrived around 9 am on a Saturday morning. There was still a few parking spots left. It was in the high 30s, still chilly at that time. There was a fee of $5 per car. Bathrooms were open. Lots of trees with shade once you arrive at the falls. Not an easy hike.

I was skeptical of the crowds but the hike was amazing. We didn’t get to the falls and it’s still 5/5 stars. GRAB A MAP! It has an awesome numbering/ educational-system in it where we, 2 adults, learned a ton and were able to bring highlights back up throughout our whole Utah adventure.

Strongly suggest hiking this trail in the morning. We started at noon and the sun and heat were intense. Make sure you bring a lot of water. The waterfall is incredible. It wasn't crowded. Really great experience! Totally worth the 3 mile hike in.

Awesome hike through so many landscapes. 6 miles in and out on a sandy path. Your calves will feel it at the end. We went at first light and I’m happy we did. Got the waterfall to ourselves for a bit. The walk out was hot around 10. Dogs welcome.

Directional signs to the park are well placed and easy to see. Entrance to the park is on narrow road and park parking is limited. There are areas along the park entrance to be used as overflow. The entrance to the trail is well marked as is the trail it self. There is limited shade for the first two miles, then about the third mile it cools down a little. This trail does not have much elevation change, but the trail is very sandy which can make it more difficult. This trail end with a pristine 126' high waterfall that dumps into a small pool at the bottom. Very refreshing!!

From the trailhead to the falls and back measured out to be 6.3 miles with 200 feet of elevation gain and loss. My son, his wife, and I took three hours to do this hike, including stopping to look at the well-marked petroglyphs, granary, beaver pond, and waterfall, marveling at the spectacular falls, creek and canyon, plus time to chat with other hikers and their dogs. We were advised to arrive early. We got to the trailhead by 8:30 on a cool April Wednesday morning. There was plenty of parking at that hour, but the trailhead lot was full to overflowing by our 11:30 a.m. return, with cars, SUVs, campers, and other vehicles jockeying for spots in the lot, along the driveway, and out on the road. BLM charges $5 for a parking tag, cash only. Lots of folks had dogs, some delightful, others not so much. As an out-and-back hike, this trail is great for anyone with a decent balance (there's some slight rock climbing, none requiring hands and knees). Short stretches of the trail are narrow, but none without "pull-outs" within short range. Do the whole thing, or turn around if and when you start to feel uncomfortable The pool and waterfall are spectacular. We easily spent 15-20 minutes just taking in the view. We did find a *big* mountain lion track near the waterfall (yes, I know the difference between a dog print and a mountain lion print).

I absolutely loved this hike! My husband and I completed the 6-mile out-and-back trek on a cool October morning without a lot of people on the trail. The 126-foot waterfall is beautiful and we desert folk are so appreciative that we got to see it since Vegas does not offer any falls like these. The trail is not too strenuous; for the most part it's flat with a few spots where you have to maneuver up over some rocks. You'll encounter beautiful trees which are currently showing off their fall colors. You'll hear the peaceful sound of the water from the creek. When you get to the waterfall, you can sit on a log and just admire its beauty. Be sure to take advantage of the clean restrooms at the parking lot before you set out as there are no facilities on the trail. Pack out what you pack in. Leave no trace except the smiles on your face--happy trails!

Hiking Lower Calf Creek Falls Trail was the BEST activity I did at Grand Staircase Escalante National Monument!!! Lower Calf Creek Falls is a majestic waterfall that's situated at the end of the hike and 126 feet high. It was so beautiful an incredible sight to see. So...yes the trail is 6 miles round trip but absolutely a MUST DO! It's the #1 attraction at Grand Staircase in my opinion. Lower Calf Creek Falls and Trail is situated in Boulder, Utah, right off scenic Highway 12 inside of Calf Creek Campground. I'd suggest driving slow around this area as there are a lot of twists and turns beside the cliff faced walls. I arrived here in early afternoon back over the summer time. When I parked in the lot I realized a few things... - To access the Lower Calf Creek Falls Trail it was $5. - Also, it was $15 to camp out for the evening here in Calf Creek. - Since I had no accommodations for the night...I figured why not just pay the one time $15 to camp out which would include free access to the trail. So...I found a campsite, parked my car and set up my tent. Then just down the road I walked over to the trailhead towards Lower Calf Creek Falls. Lol...now I actually saved $5 instead of paying $5 + $15 for both! - Best of all was once I completed hiking to and from Lower Calf Creek Falls around late sunset, I then I had my tent prepared for the night to get a good rest. Yes quite savvy thinking by me, hehehe! Before starting to hike Lower Calf Creek Falls Trail...they ask you to sign a departure booklet just in case as a measure of precaution. This wasn't new to me as during a few of my hikes throughout Grand Staircase Escalante...all of the trails had the same booklet. This way if you get lost or there's an accident...rescuers can hopefully find you by looking at who and when signed the book. But, not to worry...this hike was not dangerous whatsoever. Now onto the good stuff. Besides viewing Lower Calf Creek Falls in amazement...I highly appreciated hiking there. The 3 miles along the trail provided really terrific views of the rugged Escalante landscape. I can't recall how many times I stopped in my tracks to take pictures. For me...half the fun was really hiking to the falls! I mean, Utah is known for their incredible scenes and colorful rock walls. So...this Lower Calf Creek Falls hike certainly kept me busy. Not only was it so scenic, but the path took me through all sorts of terrain. From picturesque surroundings, to passing through thick bushes within marshes and back towards gazing up at the mountainous walls hovering above me. I felt like I had an entire experience all within this one hike. Finally arriving at Lower Calf Creek Falls...the view was stunning! It was so magical that's as good as I can describe it! What was also great (at least for me) was that during this late afternoon there weren't any hikers here at the falls and I was able to grab undisturbed photos without any strangers in my camera lens. I was thankful for that, lol. What I didn't know but you can certainly do is...these Lower Calf Creek Falls spill out into a pool of water...so, you can go swimming! I didn't have a suit or towel with me...and I could have gone for a dip...but I decided not to. Though...I can only imagine everyone coming here and having fun in the water pool. Plus again, it makes for wonderful photo opportunities. DEFINITELY BRING YOUR BATHING SUIT! Finally, just staring at this 126 foot high waterfall was a humbling sight to see. It afforded me a chance to sit back, reflect and be grateful for life and for doing hikes like this. I try and never take any special moments for granted and being here at the falls was exactly that. I spent about 45 minutes hanging out before turning around and heading back to my tent for the evening within Calf Creek Campground. Overall, I couldn't have asked for a better experience than being here at Lower Calf Creek Falls...a 5 star hike and waterfall adventure with a perfect setting tucked away within the heart of Grand Staircase Escalante National Monument.

Wow! I cannot explain how beautiful this waterfall is! I went in the heart of the summer. Everyone said go first thing in the morning... instead if went two hours before sunset and it was the best decision. The sun was on the lower side of the west so got a ton of shade from the mountains and had the waterfall all to ourselves

Hiking Lower Calf Creek Falls Trail in Grand Staircase Escalante National Monument was amazing! The hike is easy and the pay-off at the end, the waterfall, is spectacular!

Absolutely fell in love with this place. It costs $5 to get in and there is ample parking. It is roughly a 6 mile hike round trip. There is fine sand everywhere on the trail so it will definitely give you a work out but at least it's easy on the joints. I recommend going early in the summer months because it gets very hot and sunny. Take plenty of water! I took 2 liters and drank most of it. I saw many people bring their dogs and I felt bad for the poor doggos as I'm sure the sand was burning the soles of their paws. Be smart and put shoes on your dog, people! Good thing there is plenty of water from the creek to cool off and some shade. The waterfall is magnificent. It's such a nice place to chill, cool down and take pictures. There is also overnight camping which I'm definitely interested in. I will definitely be back!

Beautiful 6 mile out and back dog friendly hike. Some climbing over boulders but easily could be done with kids. Beautiful waterfall at the end. We camped and then walked over to the hike from our spot. Awesome campgrounds with the creek flowing right by the spots. Firepits with grill attachments at each spot as well as a firepit and separate grill out front by the parking for public day use. Things to note No phone service in the area Heavily trafficked Bring lots of water as there isn't much shade during the hike Lots of cacti off the trail so watch your dogs and kids

Beautiful waterfall in the Grand Staircase - Escalante. I visited here on my way from Capitol Reef to Bryce Canyon in late November. It was cold but you feel incredibly warm in the patches of sunlight during this time. I had the whole trail to myself and had a beautiful view of the waterfall at the end. It was a 6 mile round trip hike and took a couple hours. It's relatively flat so not too difficult at all. Regardless of the weather, you have to take a dip in the water at the end!

Our (my wife and I) extended labor day journey started here at Calf Creek Campground recreation area. Daily parking is $5 and overnight camping is $15 per car. There are limited parking spaces, about 10 and camping sites, maybe 15. Both Go super fast so I would suggest getting there before 10am in order to secure a spot. The campsites themselves are all first come, first serve. All have a central drinking water pump, one central outhouse (actually pretty clean and sanitary) toward the back and a regular bathroom with 3 stalls towards the front of the recreation area. Individually, each site have there own BBQ grill and fire pit while luckily others have canopies and picnic benches. If you're feeling adventurous there is the Lower Calf Creek Trail that leads to a 126 ft high waterfall and (refreshing for me but freezing for my wife) swimming pool. The trail itself is about a 6 mile round trip hike through some forestry, shrubbery, rocks and sand. There are slight elevation and climate changes so make sure you bring enough water an proper clothing. Now go get your adventure on!!

You have to check out the lower Calf Creek Falls for the most amazing waterfall when you are in Escalante. It's a 5.8 miles rounds trip that should take about 2 hours to finish. The trails takes you from the oasis through the valley and eventually you will be led to the end where you will see one of the highest and luscious waterfall ever. I consider the hike fairly easy. Not much inclines to worry about and the trail is very sandy. I felt like I was walking on a beach. It was also nice there were plenty of shades along the way. Private parking is available for a $5 fee. Spaces are limited. If you want to avoid paying $5, you can also park along the road before the entrance of the private parking lot. I would advise to come before 9 am in order to catch a parking space in the parking lot. You can also camp here for a fee to check out both the upper and lower Calf Creek Falls.

Such a beautiful waterfall hike in Escalante. This review in kinda late bc we went down to South for a spontaneous trip around July which is mid summerBring tons of water if you're planning to go here during summer, the trail is pretty sandy so if you bring your fur friends make sure to let them wear their hiking shoes too ! The sand gets really hot and uncomfortable if you're not wearing shoes(Tevas are not recommended) but you can bring an extra pair if you would like to soak in the water. That was a really fun trip and I would definitely go back next hiking season.

Go early or late in the day. About one miles is all under direct sun. Once you get there: it's very nice. It's small so it can get crowded. The water is clean and cold. Take about 2liters or more on the hike.

I came to Utah... Stayed in St George... And planned to visit Zion... But never made it there... (lol) I wanted to drive scenic byway 12 to see Red Canyon and beyond... What a drop dead gorgeous drive... There are not enough superlatives... Eventually my friend and I ended up at lower calf falls and decided to hike it... (Earlier we hiked to mossy cave and frozen waterfall) The lower calf falls hike made an incredible day very special....this hike is filled with one spectacular view after another until you arrive at a breathtakingly beautiful waterfall The hike in and out was wonderful... I am planning my return with friends

Wow!! This is a 6 mile round trip hike. It's "mostly" flat but there are some step ups and downs along the way. Amazing scenery every step of the way. Really amazing things like petroglyphs can be viewed across the Canyon-pick up a free trail guide at the trail head and the location is clearly marked. Of course the pay off is the gorgeous waterfall, pool and hanging gardens at the end of the first 3 miles!! It is worth every step! BRING WATER! There are no bathrooms and no drinking water after the trail head. It took us 2 1/2 hours in-stopping to take dozens of pictures and talking to everyone we met along the trail-after relaxing and being refreshed at the waterfall it took us 1 hr 45 minutes back out. We are in our 50s and not regular hikers-younger folks and experienced hikers did the trip in much shorter time.

3 mile hike one way so be prepared for a 3 to 4 hour adventure. There are plenty of different types of nature things (?) to be seen..desert, rivers, waterfalls, mountains. If you don't grab the trail guide be sure to look out for wall paintings on marker #8. Look directly across toward the mountains and you'll be able to see three "guys" who were painted on the canyon wall.

Beautiful hike into to some gorgeous waterfall and cold water. Very refreshing and easy hike. Recommend for kids however it is a 3 mile hike in and out. The kids loved playing in the waterfall and cooling off. We quickly dried but was perfectly damp for the hike out.