Enjoying water in Bryce Canyon Country

Here in Bryce Canyon Country’s high desert, water is precious but there are still plenty of spots to enjoy your favorite water activities. From world-class fishing in high alpine lakes to waterfalls and white water rapids, come enjoy the moisture in Bryce Canyon Country.

Waterfalls

One of the highlights of the Calf Creek Recreation Area (managed by the BLM) is Calf Creek Falls. Set between Navajo sandstone cliffs and amongst juniper and pinyon trees, the roundtrip hike to the upper and lower falls is about 5.5 miles. Lower Calf Creek Falls is a stunning 126-foot waterfall. The trail to Lower Calf Creek Falls is sandy and moderately strenuous but well worth the reward of mist from the falls and canyon shade that provides a cool respite from the heat. Upper Calf Creek Falls is just one mile, each direction, but the trail covers some steep slickrock terrain.

Fishing/Boating Panguitch

With a name that means “big fish” in Paiute, it’s no wonder anglers come to Panguitch Lake in search of the big catch. At 8,400 feet, Panguitch Lake offers world-class fishing and boating, and a cool respite from summer’s heat in the heart of Dixie National Forest. Boating is also popular in Wide Hollow Reservoir, adjacent to Escalante Petrified Forest State Park. Glen Canyon National Recreation Area’s crowning jewel, Lake Powell, is the second-largest man-made lake in the U.S. with over 2,000 miles of shoreline. Lake Powell accommodates all types of recreational watercraft, from fishing boats to houseboats.

Swimming

With its painted desert backdrop, Lake Powell is one of the prettiest places to cool off and beat the heat. From Bullfrog Marina you can easily get to sandy beaches in many back-country canyons that may require some slickrock hiking to reach the best and most quiet pockets of water. In more open canyons remember that there may not be designated swimming areas, and remember there are no lifeguards on duty. Learn more about Lake Powell.

River Rafting

The Sevier River’s Class II and III rapids offer some enjoyable river rafting experiences in Utah. Let local guides navigate your party on a wild white water ride downriver, backed by interesting scenery and geologic history—or take in the gorgeous mountain scenery as you relax on the cool water in a lazy river float. Learn to paddle in mild moving water, stop for a swim, and then get ready for a wild ride on the rapids like Big Daddy and Rock Garden. A Bryce Canyon Country river rafting trip is a great bonding adventure for families, employees, youth groups, and friends—or join other individuals for a guided adventure.

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