While some waterfalls cascade over massive cliffs into pools of warm spring water, others are tinier cascades that tumble down over a few rocks. Either way, you won’t be disappointed with our list of the top 10 waterfalls in Utah that will absolutely blow you away!
1. Battle Creek Falls
In the foothills above Pleasant Grove, the Battle Creek Trail leads to a stunning waterfall with a 50-foot drop. Despite the short distance, it’s a great climb, climbing nearly 430 feet in just 0.6 miles. From the waterfall, the water runs through the canyon from the river above. Depending on the season, the waterfall can be a gentle trickle or a roaring stream.
2. Bell Canyon Falls
The Bell Canyon trail east of Sandy takes you to a series of waterfalls after a four-mile hike. The first one is the most beautiful, with the water tumbling down instead of dropping. Salt Lake Valley can be seen from this route, and it has a lot of altitude gain for a good workout. During the summer months, the volume of water on this waterfall in Utah fluctuates depending on the water levels.
3. Emerald Pools and Falls
Emerald Pools and a waterfall can be found in Zion National Park. Despite the steep slopes and rough terrain, this is an intermediate trek. There are three miles between the lower and upper pools, but the road becomes increasingly difficult as you approach the upper pools. You’ll quickly see why this is one of the most popular hikes to waterfalls in Utah.
4. Upper Calf Creek Falls
The Upper Calf Creek Falls is hidden amongst the rugged hills of Grand Staircase Escalante in southern Utah. This somewhat hidden and neglected waterfall was largely hidden from all but the most determined tourists. On this trip, those who wish to go will follow a sandstone and mineral-laden trail. An interesting fact is that the Navajo used to live in the area.
5. Lower Calf Creek Falls
Lower Calf Creek Falls stands 126 feet tall and is the first waterfall on the trail in Escalante. This waterfall has a sandier route than the upper one. Despite its smaller size, the height increase is still significant compared to Upper Calf Creek. With its 126ft flow year-round and vibrant algae coating the wet sandstone, the waterfall shows off the wonder of a desert oasis like this amidst otherwise harsh terrain. The six-mile round-trip hike also includes Native American pictographs, which add to the appeal of this ideal location.
6. Stewart Falls
Stewart Falls is a breathtaking 200-foot tiered waterfall in Utah that caresses the slopes of Mt. Timpanogos. Located near Sundance Resort, the climb is relatively easy and suitable for children. Walking to the waterfall takes about 3.5 miles. From the cliffs above, the waterfall falls about forty feet into a lake below. In this area, granite or limestone is more common than red rock.
7. Provo River Falls
Along the Mirror Lake Highway, the Provo River Falls is a famous roadside attraction. It can be accessed either by driving the Mirror Lake Highway or hiking the 23.9 miles. The hike is deemed simple because there is little elevation variation. The waterfalls are located close to the road and are extremely cold, like freshly melted ice, but it is still pleasant to walk up to them and enjoy them.
8. Archangel Falls
North Creek feeds Archangel Falls, which runs just a few hundred yards away from the famous Subway. Red Navajo sandstone towers over 500 feet on either side of the falls, which are carved out of petrified Kayenta shale. It’s a pretty tough hike to Archangel Falls on the Subway Trail in Zion National Park. The Subway Trail will have you crossing rivers, climbing rock faces, and rappelling down sheer walls. It’s a difficult journey, but it’s well worth it for the scenery!
9. Adams Canyon Waterfall
Adams Canyon Waterfall is found in Layton, Utah. Nearly four miles of moderate hiking trails lead to the waterfall. Hundreds of years of water have eroded this limestone face, and the waterfall cascades down it. There’s a twist halfway down before it plunges into a pool below. A scenic trail leads to the waterfall in the foothills of Layton, traveling through pines and scrub oak, crossing bridges, and traversing treacherous rocks.
10. Kanarraville Falls
The Kanarra Falls slot canyon walk in Utah has two waterfalls that are accessible through Kanarra Creek. There is a small waterfall at the start, then a ladder climb, followed by a rope to help you remain balanced. It is not easy to reach the third fall, and not everyone is capable of it. If you intend to complete the entire journey on the trail, you will need a permit.
