One of the gems of Grand Staircase Escalante, this epic 130-foot waterfall hike takes you through picturesque and colorful scenery as you carve into the canyon.
The Lower Calf Creek Falls hike is a 8.2 mile out and back hike in Grand Staircase Escalante, Utah. Due to the length this hike is considered moderate, but the terrain itself is forgiving and pleasantly paced. Dogs are able to use this hike. It took us 3 hours with a long stop at the end to gaze at the waterfall.
Details:
Directions (Google Maps): To get to the Lower Calf Creek Trailhead, search for the Lower Calf Creek Trailhead in Boulder, Utah or click here.
Directions (old school maps): From Kanab, take Highway 89 north and then turn right onto Highway 12. You’ll pass the town of Bryce and go for a total of 75 miles before you bank off to the left and down into the parking area for the trailhead. There are a number of parking spots at the trailhead.
Driving Info: This is an easy paved drive the entire way. The views are spectacular but the curves can be tight so please drive safe.
Time & Weather: We hiked this trail in mid February and started hiking around 10am. The weather was crisp at 50 degrees with a threat of rain. The latter half of the hike has decent shade.
Gear: We wore 1-2 layers for warmth, solid hiking boots, hat & sunglasses.
Trail Navigation: The trail is easy to follow the entire way.
Water & Food: We drank about a liter each, but in the warmer months you should definitely bring extra water. The hike ends at the beautiful waterfall, and there are plenty of areas lay or sit down and soak in the surroundings. It’s recommended to bring some snacks to enjoy underneath the 130 foot waterfall.
Trailhead Info: The trail starts right next to the camping and parking areas. The trailhead is well marked, as its the only trail out of the area. There are bathroom facilities at the parking lot.
Pictures of the Lower Calf Creek Falls hike:
Even in the winter time the colors pop throughout the path of the creek.
Large amphitheater style walls line your left side as you work your way into the canyon.
The entire creekside path is like a postcard. There are so many colors in the rocks, the native shrubbery, and the crystal reflections in the water.
Approaching the waterfall from behind the trees that line the final part of the trail.
The waterfall is quite impressive, at 130 feet tall. It drops into the tranquil pool below before carving it’s way back through the canyon.
On the way back, the scale of the surrounding mountains comes into focus.
Massive walls of rock across the creek. If you pay attention, you can spot some very large rock art (petroglyphs) from 1,000+ years ago.
Going to be in the Kanab area? There's a ton of hiking, camping and outdoor activities to get up to. Check out our Ultimate Hiking & Travel Guide for our tips on the most amazing hikes within a few hours of Kanab.
