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Your ultimate guide to local adventures, outdoor activities, and community events across Utah.

When is the best time of year to see waterfalls in Utah?

The peak season for Utah waterfalls is during the spring runoff, typically from late April through June. During this time, the melting snow from the mountains fuels the highest flow volumes. However, some desert falls like Lower Calf Creek remain beautiful year-round.

Do I need permits for any of these waterfalls?

Yes, Kanarra Falls requires a pre-purchased permit, which is limited to 150 people per day. Other locations, like those in Zion National Park, require a park entrance fee, and some trailheads in the National Forests may require a small day-use fee (like the American Fork Canyon fee for Stewart Falls).

Which Utah waterfalls are best for kids?

Bridal Veil Falls is the easiest for kids as it is paved and flat. Donut Falls and Battle Creek Falls are also excellent family-friendly options with relatively short distances and high interactive rewards.

Can you swim in Utah's waterfalls?

In many cases, yes. Lower Calf Creek Falls, Fifth Water Hot Springs, and Battle Creek Falls are popular for swimming or wading. However, always check local regulations, as some areas like Bells Canyon are protected watersheds where swimming and even dogs are strictly prohibited to keep drinking water clean.

Are dogs allowed on these waterfall trails?

Dogs are allowed on most National Forest trails (Stewart Falls, Battle Creek, Donut Falls) but must be on a leash. They are NOT allowed in protected watersheds like Bells Canyon or on most trails in Zion National Park (Emerald Pools). Always check specific trail regulations before bringing your pet.

Outdoor Adventures

10 Best Waterfalls in Utah

Discover Utah's most breathtaking waterfalls, from the towering desert oasis of Lower Calf Creek to the accessible alpine beauty of Stewart Falls and the iconic Bridal Veil.

Last Updated September 30, 2026

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Top 10

01
Lower Calf Creek FallsBoulder
02
Stewart FallsProvo
03
Kanarra FallsKanarraville
04
Fifth Water Hot SpringsSpringville
05
Bridal Veil FallsProvo
06
Bells Canyon Lower FallsSandy
07
Donut FallsSalt Lake City
08
Provo River FallsKamal
09
Emerald Pools (Lower & Middle)Springdale
10
Battle Creek FallsPleasant Grove

Boulder

Lower Calf Creek Falls

Stewart Falls

9.8/10Side Quest

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3.4 miles round tripModerate2-2.5 hours646 ftSummer and Fall

An elegant two-tier waterfall dropping over 200 feet, nestled in the shadows of Mount Timpanogos near Sundance Resort.

Aspen Grove Trailhead, Alpine Scenic Hwy

Open 24 hours

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Kanarraville

Kanarra Falls

9.6/10Side Quest

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3.7 miles round tripModerate2.5-3 hours600 ftLate Spring to Early Fall

A breathtaking slot canyon experience featuring a photogenic waterfall with a rustic log ladder, requiring a permit to explore.

100 N Main St

8:00 AM - 7:00 PM (Permit Required)

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Springville

Fifth Water Hot Springs

9.5/10Side Quest

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4.5 miles round tripModerate2.5-3 hours630 ftYear-round (Snowshoes in winter)

A rare combination of cascading waterfalls and natural turquoise hot springs located in Diamond Fork Canyon.

Diamond Fork Rd

Open 24 hours

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Provo

Bridal Veil Falls

9.1/10Side Quest

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0.1 miles round tripEasy15-30 mins50 ftYear-round

A massive 607-foot double-cataract waterfall that is easily accessible via a paved trail in Provo Canyon.

US-189, Provo Canyon

Dawn to Dusk

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Sandy

Bells Canyon Lower Falls

8.9/10Side Quest

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4.6 miles round tripHard3-4 hours1,453 ftMay to October

A powerful, thundering waterfall located in a rugged granite canyon overlooking the Salt Lake Valley.

10245 Wasatch Blvd

Dawn to Dusk

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Salt Lake City

Donut Falls

8.7/10Side Quest

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3.3 miles round tripEasy1.5-2 hours531 ftSummer and Fall

A unique geological wonder where the creek plunges through a hole in the roof of a sea cave.

Big Cottonwood Canyon Rd

Open 24 hours

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Kamal

Provo River Falls

8.6/10Side Quest

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0.5 miles round tripEasy20-30 mins50 ftJuly to September

A series of wide, cascading tiers along the Provo River, located high in the Uinta Mountains off Mirror Lake Highway.

Mirror Lake Hwy (UT-150)

Open 24 hours (Seasonal road closures)

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Springdale

Emerald Pools (Lower & Middle)

8.4/10Side Quest

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2.2 miles round tripModerate1.5-2 hours300 ftSpring and Fall

A world-famous series of pools and weeping waterfalls set against the massive red cliffs of Zion Canyon.

Zion Canyon Scenic Dr

Open 24 hours

$$$

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Pleasant Grove

Battle Creek Falls

8.4/10Side Quest

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1.2 miles round tripEasy45-60 mins450 ftYear-round

A charming, family-friendly waterfall in Pleasant Grove that is perfect for a quick evening hike.

E 200 S (Battle Creek Dr)

Dawn to Dusk

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10 Best Waterfalls in Utah

Top 10

Lower Calf Creek Falls

Stewart Falls

Kanarra Falls

Fifth Water Hot Springs

Bridal Veil Falls

Bells Canyon Lower Falls

Donut Falls

Provo River Falls

Emerald Pools (Lower & Middle)

Battle Creek Falls

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