Explore our favorite hikes near Lower Calf Creek Falls
Short Hikes (1-2 Hours)
Upper Calf Creek Falls
Upper Calf Creek Falls, a hidden gem nestled in Southern Utah, offers an enchanting (approximately) 80-foot waterfall adventure just beyond its more frequented sibling, Lower Calf Creek Falls. Tucked away behind a challenging ascent over sandstone and dotted with volcanic boulders, this waterfall remains a secret, obscured from view by the dense brush near the trailhead register. This hike is not suitable for young children. Parts of the hike are steep and could require some scrambling. It is also advised to avoid midday hiking due to the limited shade.
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The journey to Upper Calf Creek Falls spans a two-mile round trip, typically requiring at least two hours to navigate the upward trail and locate the elusive falls— a common spot to miss. The reward for this trek is a breathtaking display of nature’s power: water converting potential energy into kinetic, and finally, into a soothing thermal energy upon impact with the earth. This natural spectacle has been revered since ancient times for its soul-soothing properties.
This location exudes a mystical quality, perhaps due to its ties to Native American heritage, offering a sense of stepping back into a mystical, untouched past. Its isolation provides a genuine connection to nature, away from the bustling tourist paths. The waters of Calf Creek, originating from a mystical spring, meander through a serene valley, gathering in deep natural pools before cascading down the dramatic 88-foot drop at the canyon’s edge, and continuing on to merge with the larger waterfall below.
Exploring the Canyon
The canyon itself is a lush, hidden haven, flourishing with reeds, sage, and towering grasses. Navigating this area is an engaging mix of wading, climbing, and boulder-hopping—ideal for those who seek a raw and untamed outdoor experience.
Finding Your Way
One reason why many adventurers find themselves momentarily lost on their way to Upper Calf Creek is the unmarked trailhead. Located between mile markers 81 and 80 on the western side of UT12, roughly 22.4 miles northeast of Escalante, the approach involves a 200-300 yard trek through sandy, uneven terrain. Those with low-clearance vehicles might consider parking roadside and walking to the trailhead to begin their exploration of this secluded natural marvel.
Escalante Petrified Forest Trail
Embark on a captivating journey through the heart of Escalante Petrified Forest State Park on the Petrified Forest Trail. This 1.1-mile loop trail offers a panoramic vista of the park, showcasing the sprawling beauty of the reservoir and the vibrant landscape that surrounds it. As you traverse this moderately challenging path, you’ll be treated to extraordinary sights of ancient petrified wood, remnants of volcanic activity from millennia ago. These colorful fossilized trees, scattered alongside the trail, create a striking contrast against the soft hues of local wildflowers that bloom in abundance.
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The Petrified Forest Trail is not only a visual feast but also a journey back in time. The petrified wood, formed by ancient lava flows, tells a story of a landscape once dominated by lush forests that were suddenly encapsulated in volcanic ash, preserving them as beautiful stone replicas.
Be sure to pack plenty of water, as the trail can be quite warm, especially during the midday. The best times to visit are from March to November when the weather is most accommodating. The trail begins with some steep switchbacks, so wearing shoes with good traction is advisable to navigate these initial challenging sections comfortably.
This hike is a wonderful outing for the whole family, including your four-legged members, provided they are kept on a leash. It’s an excellent opportunity to immerse yourself in nature, enjoy some physical activity, and even educate young hikers about the geological history and natural beauty of the area. Whether you’re looking for a serene retreat or a chance to explore and learn, the Petrified Forest Trail delivers an enriching outdoor experience that resonates with hikers of all ages.
Sleeping Rainbows Trail
To enhance your adventure on the Petrified Forest Trail at Escalante Petrified Forest State Park, consider extending your hike to include the Sleeping Rainbows Trail. This additional .8-mile loop branches off from the main trail, leading you through even more mesmerizing landscapes adorned with petrified wood. These ancient wooden artifacts glisten like rainbows when caught by the sunlight, creating a dazzling display of natural history turned to stone.
The Sleeping Rainbows Trail is a perfect complement to the Petrified Forest Trail, offering a deeper exploration of the park’s unique geological features. The extension provides a fuller experience of the area’s scenic beauty and is well worth the extra trek for those eager to immerse themselves further in the wonders of the park.
Together, these trails form a captivating journey through an ancient world preserved by time, making for an unforgettable hiking experience that is as educational as it is beautiful. Whether you’re a seasoned hiker seeking new challenges or a family looking for an enriching day out in nature, this extended loop promises more discoveries and delights around every bend.
Posey Lake Lookout
Explore the 1.4-mile round trip trail located near Escalante, Utah. Often regarded as moderately difficult, it typically requires about an hour to finish. This path is excellent for hiking and camping, offering a good chance of solitude as it’s usually not crowded. Dogs can join the adventure but must be kept on a leash.
Hell’s Backbone Bridge Loop
More of a hike for your vehicle, this fantastic journey loops around Escalante to Boulder, ascending the thrilling route of Hell’s Backbone. This isn’t just a road; it’s a journey through the sky, where the Hell’s Backbone Bridge presents a breathtaking scenic overlook, offering views that stretch into eternity, framed by the rugged beauty of the desert below. This high-altitude path, flanked by deep chasms and towering pinnacles, isn’t for the faint-hearted, but the reward is unparalleled panoramic vistas that are etched into your memory forever.
Burr Trail Drive/Singing Canyon Slot Hike
Embark on a scenic drive along the Burr Trail, where the rugged landscapes of Utah unfold in breathtaking vistas. As you traverse this picturesque route, make a stop at Singing Canyon Slot Canyon for an unforgettable hiking experience. This serene slot canyon, with its echoing acoustics, offers a tranquil escape into nature’s embrace. It’s a wider slot canyon, making it more accessible, and the total hiking distance is very short.
Willis Creek Slot Canyon
Willis Creek Slot Canyon, nestled in the Grand Staircase-Escalante National Monument in Utah, offers an enchanting exploration opportunity. This serene slot canyon stretches approximately 4.8 miles and is accessible via a trail that winds through narrow passageways beneath towering canyon walls. Ideal for a water hike, visitors can wade through the creek that runs along the canyon floor, enhancing the adventure with the soothing sounds of flowing water. The hike is relatively easy, making it a fantastic option for families and individuals seeking a unique, natural experience. A high-clearance vehicle is recommended to get to Willis Creek Slot Canyon.
Devil’s Rock Garden
Devil’s Rock Garden, located down the rugged Hole-in-the-Rock Road within the vast expanses of Grand Staircase-Escalante National Monument, offers a unique outdoor adventure. This intriguing area features a collection of sandstone spires, hoodoos, and balanced rocks, creating a natural playground for exploration. The hike itself is relatively short, about 0.8 miles round trip, making it accessible and enjoyable for all skill levels. It’s a perfect spot for photographers and families alike to spend a few hours wandering amidst the geological wonders. A high-clearance vehicle is recommended to get to Devil’s Rock Garden.
Longer Hikes (Half to Full Day)
Escalante River/Natural Bridge
Embark on an exhilarating journey through the grandest stretch of the Escalante River canyon, where vast benches embrace the river, and towering cliffs and majestic domes shape the horizon. The trail presents a delightful challenge with four invigorating fords across the shin-deep river, transforming an ordinary hike into a refreshing adventure. During typical conditions, these crossings are shallow and easily navigable, adding a splash of excitement without the worry.
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Just a half-mile and two river crossings beyond the awe-inspiring natural bridge, a remarkable skyline arch beckons, urging explorers to venture further and enrich their experience.
Your adventure begins at the Escalante River Trailhead off UT 12. Start next to the trailhead register and the informative signboard, taking the dusty path down to a clearly marked junction. Here, a sign pointing towards “Escalante 15 miles” guides you to the right. As you follow the trail along the fence, it skirts private lands, leading you through a unique hiker’s maze, and finally depositing you at the river’s edge. Rangers may place poles here to assist with crossing at the swift, rocky ford. In their absence, cross the river just upstream from the trail, where a walking staff becomes an invaluable ally for balance and ease throughout your sandy sojourn.
Once across, the south bank welcomes you with a well-marked trail that winds up the canyon. This enchanting section boasts a landscape alive with high sagebrush, rabbitbrush, and vibrant patches of Eastwood paintbrush, scarlet gilia, tansy-aster, penstemon, and globemallow. The trail is framed by a mix of native cottonwoods and willows alongside the invasive tamarisk and Russian olive trees. Overhead, the Navajo Sandstone cliffs, adorned with natural alcoves, rise steeply to reveal a breathtaking array of slick rock domes that dominate the skyline, completing this picturesque tableau of nature’s artistry.
Bighorn Slot Canyon
Bighorn Slot Canyon offers a spectacular adventure through a less-traveled path in the Utah wilderness. Known for its narrow passageways and towering walls, this slot canyon provides an intimate encounter with nature’s artistry. The trek through Bighorn Slot Canyon can take around 3 hours to complete, depending on pace and exploration. It’s a moderately challenging hike, ideal for those looking to immerse themselves in the quiet beauty of sandstone formations and the occasional sighting of bighorn sheep navigating the rugged terrain. This hike is a true hidden gem for avid adventurers seeking solitude and natural beauty. A high-clearance vehicle is recommended to get to Bighorn Slot Canyon.
Broken Bow Arch
Broken Bow Arch is a remarkable hiking destination nestled deep in the wilderness, over 40 miles down the Hole-in-the-Rock Road in Grand Staircase-Escalante National Monument. The hike to this stunning natural arch is a rewarding journey, taking approximately 3 to 4 hours to complete round trip. The path winds through a landscape rich with scenic vistas and the quietude of secluded desert terrain. As you approach the arch, the impressive scale and beauty of the natural stone formation become truly awe-inspiring. This hike is perfect for those seeking a day adventure off the beaten path, surrounded by the rugged beauty of southern Utah. A high-clearance vehicle is recommended to get to Broken Bow Arch.
Upper Gulch
Upper Gulch, situated in the sprawling landscapes of southern Utah, provides an exceptional hiking experience through a series of narrow, winding canyons and expansive, sandy washes. The trail, part of the larger Escalante River Canyon system, offers a serene trek where hikers can admire the striking rock formations and diverse desert flora along the way. Typically requiring several hours to navigate, this hike is perfect for those looking to explore at a leisurely pace, with opportunities to spot wildlife and enjoy the peaceful solitude of the natural environment. Upper Gulch is a delightful escape for nature enthusiasts and photographers alike. A high-clearance vehicle is recommended to get to Upper Gulch.
Eye of the Needle
The hike to Eye of the Needle, also known as the Cosmic Ashtray, offers a unique and adventurous experience for those willing to venture deep into the wilderness off Hole-in-the-Rock Road, with a turn onto Harris Wash Road. This remote and spectacular geological feature, characterized by a large, circular depression filled with vibrant orange sand, is a hidden gem that captivates the imagination. Accessing the trailhead requires a 4-wheel drive vehicle, as the sandy stretches of the road can be challenging to navigate. The hike itself is moderately difficult and takes several hours to complete, rewarding hikers with breathtaking views and a profound sense of isolation from the bustling outside world. This excursion is ideal for adventurous spirits seeking a hike that’s off the beaten path. A high-clearance vehicle is recommended to get to Eye of the Needle.
