Lower Calf Creek Falls
A very scenic and shady half day hike beside a stream to a spectacular waterfall.
★★★★
Wow factor
★★★★
Overall rating
★★
Difficulty
★★★★★
Trailhead access
★★★
Crowds
The well-signed trailhead is situated off UT12 between Escalante and Boulder, itself one of the great drives in the southwest. You’ll pay a fee to park in the large lot. Years ago before the Grand Staircase Escalante National Monument was formed this trail wasn’t busy. Now it’s well-publicised so it’s best to get there early or hike late afternoon.
The level trail is often sandy underfoot which makes the nearly 6 mile roundtrip a little more strenuous. You’ll see beaver ponds and, further up canyon high on the east cliff, Anasazi granaries and some red Fremont pictographs.
It can be a hot hike but there are plenty of shady places to rest. As you approach the 128 feet waterfall you’ll notice the temperature drop significantly. The water plunges into a large shady swimming hole so this a perfect place to cool off and have a snack.