Lower Calf Creek Falls
Lower Calf Creek Falls trail winds through canyon walls of Capitol Reef National Park beneath leafless trees.
Lower Calf Creek Falls cascades through red canyon walls in Capitol Reef National Park.

Lower Calf Creek Falls

Trails★★★★☆
Last Updated: February 2026

Distance

6.5 mi

Elevation Gain

350 ft

Est. Time

2.5-4 hours

Route Type

Out-and-back

Dogs Allowed

No

Best Season

Spring and Fall

Overview

About This Trail

Mission Brief: Lower Calf Creek Falls is a 6.5-mile out-and-back with about 350 ft of gain. The sandy sections and heat demand steady grit. Start early, carry 2–4 liters per person, and filter creek water if you drink from Calf Creek. The payoff is a 126-foot waterfall into a pool, with Fremont pictographs and granaries along the riparian corridor.

Highlights

Difficulty Level

Moderate

Trail Highlights

126-foot waterfall into a pool, plus historic Fremont signs and riparian scenery along the creek

Insider Tips

• Pick up the interpretive brochure at the trailhead to learn about numbered points of interest • Start as early as possible, ideally at dawn, to beat the heat and avoid crowds • Heat and sand make this hike tougher for kids; plan accordingly

Best Season to Hike

Spring and Fall

Hiking Tips

  • Carry 2–4 liters of water per person
  • Apply sunscreen and wear a hat
  • Sturdy shoes; consider trekking poles on sand
  • Start cold and pace the sand sections
  • Filter creek water if drinking from Calf Creek

Family Info

Generally suitable for children who can handle the distance, but heat and sand can be challenging

What Hikers Say

Hikers praise the payoff of the waterfall and the historic signs; the route can be crowded midday; sand and heat demand preparation and pacing