15 Amazing Waterfalls in Utah

Prepare to have your perceptions of Utah completely transformed! While the Beehive State is globally celebrated for its iconic red rock deserts and majestic national parks, it harbors a lush, watery secret: a stunning collection of waterfalls that will leave you breathless. Imagine the refreshing spray of a cascading torrent after a scenic hike, the vibrant green moss clinging to canyon walls, and the soothing sound of rushing water echoing through ancient rock formations. From easily accessible roadside wonders to hidden gems requiring a rewarding trek, Utah’s waterfalls offer a diverse array of adventures for every type of traveler.

This guide will lead you through 15 of Utah’s most amazing aquatic treasures, providing all the practical insights and cost breakdowns you need to plan an unforgettable journey. The best time to witness these marvels is typically late spring through early summer, when snowmelt feeds the falls to their most magnificent flow, or in the fall when the surrounding foliage bursts into fiery colors, creating a truly magical backdrop. Always check local conditions before you go, especially for high-elevation trails.

Bell Canyon Falls

Nestled in the picturesque Wasatch Front, Bell Canyon Falls offers a truly immersive nature experience just a stone’s throw from urban life. What makes this place unique is its striking combination of challenging granite boulder scrambling leading to a stunning waterfall, all within a designated wilderness area. As you ascend, you’ll traverse diverse terrain, from a paved path near the reservoir to rocky, root-laden trails, culminating in a captivating scramble over polished granite slabs. The reward is a multi-tiered waterfall, often flowing robustly in spring, cascading into a series of clear pools.

Visitors can expect to spend a good portion of their day here, enjoying the strenuous hike, picnicking by the falls, and soaking in the serene mountain atmosphere. It’s a fantastic spot for avid hikers, solo adventurers seeking solitude, or active couples looking for a rewarding challenge. While there isn’t a deep historical narrative, the canyon itself tells a story of ancient geological processes, with its impressive granite formations sculpted by time and water. The feeling of discovering this natural wonder so close to the city is truly special.

Emerald Pools and Falls

Within the dramatic landscapes of Zion National Park, the Emerald Pools and Falls offer a lush oasis that feels like a world away from the park’s more arid sections. This unique series of hanging gardens, cascading waterfalls, and reflective pools is fed by springs, creating a vibrant, verdant ecosystem against the backdrop of towering sandstone cliffs. You’ll encounter three distinct levels: the Lower, Middle, and Upper Emerald Pools.

The Lower Pool is easily accessible and features a delightful waterfall that often sprays visitors walking behind it. As you ascend, the Middle Pools reveal more cascades, while the Upper Pool is a serene, larger basin at the base of a towering cliff, with a powerful waterfall plunging into it during high flow. It’s an ideal spot for families due to its varying trail difficulties, couples seeking a romantic stroll, or solo travelers looking for peaceful contemplation amidst stunning natural beauty. The stark contrast between the desert and these watery havens truly highlights the incredible diversity within Zion.

Adams Canyon Waterfall

Adams Canyon Waterfall, tucked away in Layton, is a local favorite offering a rewarding hike to a picturesque 40-foot cascade. What makes this spot special is its accessibility combined with a genuine wilderness feel. The trail begins with a steady uphill climb through a shaded canyon, eventually opening up to sweeping views of the valley below. As you ascend, you’ll cross a charming bridge and navigate a few rocky sections before the sound of rushing water signals your arrival.

The waterfall itself is a beautiful sight, plunging into a clear pool, perfect for a refreshing break. It’s a popular destination for active families, solo hikers seeking a moderate challenge, and trail runners. The sense of accomplishment upon reaching the falls is palpable, and the journey through the diverse forest and open slopes provides a wonderful escape into nature. It’s a testament to Utah’s ability to hide stunning natural features just beyond the urban fringe.

Kanarraville Falls

Kanarraville Falls offers an unforgettable slot canyon experience, often likened to a mini-Narrows adventure. What makes this place truly unique is the necessity of wading and sometimes swimming through the Kanarra Creek itself to reach the waterfalls. You’ll navigate through narrow sandstone walls, climb up a fixed ladder beside the first major waterfall, and then tackle a log jam at the second fall.

This immersive, interactive journey through water-sculpted rock is incredibly exhilarating and visually stunning, with light filtering down into the canyon in magical ways. It’s an absolute must-do for adventurous families with older children, active couples, and solo travelers seeking a unique and memorable outdoor challenge. The blend of hiking and water exploration makes it distinct from other waterfall experiences. Due to its popularity, a permit system is in place to protect this fragile environment and ensure a quality experience for visitors.

Donut Falls

Donut Falls, located in Big Cottonwood Canyon, is one of Utah’s most iconic and whimsical waterfalls, named for its distinctive shape. What makes it unique is how the water cascades through a circular hole in the rock, resembling a donut, before plunging into a pool below. The hike to the falls is relatively easy and incredibly scenic, following a gentle stream through lush forest.

You’ll cross small bridges and navigate a few rocky sections, making it a delightful journey for all ages. Once you reach the falls, you can often wade into the shallow stream to get a closer look at the “donut” formation. It’s an incredibly popular destination for families with young children, casual hikers, and anyone looking for a quick, rewarding nature escape. The unique geological feature truly sets it apart, making it a memorable visual experience.

Archangel Falls

Archangel Falls, nestled within Zion National Park, is a lesser-known but equally captivating gem along the scenic Virgin River. What makes it unique is its character as a series of gentle cascades rather than a single dramatic drop, creating a shimmering, multi-tiered flow over smooth, vibrant red rock. Located on the iconic Narrows hike, it provides a moment of serene beauty amidst the towering canyon walls.

You’ll wade through the Virgin River, marveling at the sheer scale of the canyon, before reaching this picturesque spot where the water fans out gracefully. It’s perfect for adventurous hikers willing to get their feet wet, solo explorers seeking the tranquility of the Narrows, and couples looking for an unforgettable backcountry experience. While not a thundering cascade, its subtle beauty and the incredible setting make it truly special. Its name evokes a sense of divine majesty, fitting for such a breathtaking natural cathedral.

Bridal Veil Falls

Bridal Veil Falls, located in Provo Canyon, is one of Utah’s most iconic and easily accessible waterfalls, making it a must-visit for anyone exploring the area. What sets it apart is its impressive height, cascading 607 feet in a double-cataract formation, making it one of the tallest waterfalls in the state. Its proximity to the road allows for stunning views without a strenuous hike, perfect for a quick stop or a leisurely picnic.

Visitors can enjoy the powerful spray from viewing platforms, capture breathtaking photos, or simply relax by the Provo River. It’s an ideal destination for families with young children, individuals with mobility challenges, and anyone looking for a beautiful, easily reachable natural wonder. The falls also have a poignant history, having been the site of a historic tram and restaurant in the past, adding a layer of nostalgic charm to its natural grandeur.

Cascade Falls

Cascade Falls, located near Duck Creek Village in Southern Utah, offers a unique experience where a powerful underground spring emerges from a cave and immediately plunges over a cliff, forming a stunning waterfall. What makes it special is this direct emergence from the earth, creating a powerful and constant flow regardless of snowmelt. The short, easy trail leads through a beautiful pine forest to the mouth of the cave, where you can feel the cool spray and witness the dramatic birth of the waterfall.

You can even venture a short distance into the cave if you’re feeling adventurous, though it’s dark and slippery. It’s a fantastic spot for families, casual hikers, and anyone looking for a quick, impressive natural wonder off the beaten path. The unique geological phenomenon makes it a fascinating and memorable stop on any southern Utah itinerary.

Cataract Gorge

Cataract Gorge, while not a single, towering waterfall in the traditional sense, is a series of powerful rapids and cascades on the Colorado River, marking a dramatic transition into the wild heart of Canyonlands National Park. What makes this place unique is its raw, untamed power and its setting within a remote, awe-inspiring canyon. This is where the mighty Colorado River, having flowed relatively calmly, suddenly drops significantly through Class III to V rapids, creating a spectacular display of whitewater.

Visitors typically experience Cataract Gorge via multi-day rafting trips, making it an adventure for experienced thrill-seekers, extreme sports enthusiasts, and those seeking true wilderness immersion. The sheer scale of the canyon and the force of the water are humbling, offering an unparalleled sense of adventure and a deep connection to the wild. It’s a place of incredible geological power and beauty, far from the crowds.

Fifth Water Hot Springs Waterfall

Fifth Water Hot Springs Waterfall, also known as Diamond Fork Hot Springs, offers a truly unique and magical experience where warm, mineral-rich waters cascade into cool creek water, creating a series of natural hot pools. What makes it special is the vibrant blue and orange mineral deposits that paint the rocks, contrasting beautifully with the lush green surroundings and the clear water. The hike to the springs is moderately easy, following a scenic trail alongside the creek.

As you approach, the distinct smell of sulfur signals your arrival at this geothermal wonderland. Visitors can soak in various pools, each with a different temperature, enjoying the therapeutic warmth and the stunning natural beauty. It’s an incredibly popular spot for all ages, from families seeking a unique outdoor adventure to couples looking for a romantic soak, and solo travelers wanting to unwind in nature’s spa. The opportunity to relax in natural hot springs beneath a waterfall is an unparalleled experience.

Provo River Falls

Provo River Falls, located along the scenic Mirror Lake Highway, is a series of picturesque cascades rather than a single dramatic drop, offering a charming roadside stop amidst stunning mountain scenery. What makes it special is its easy accessibility and the sheer volume of water that tumbles over the rocks, especially during peak runoff. The falls are spread out, creating numerous small, frothy cascades and pools, perfect for photography or simply enjoying the sound of the rushing water.

Visitors can take short walks along the riverbanks, enjoy a picnic, or simply admire the view from designated pull-offs. It’s an ideal spot for families looking for an easy nature stop, photographers seeking dynamic water shots, or anyone traveling along the Mirror Lake Highway needing a refreshing break. The surrounding Uinta-Wasatch-Cache National Forest provides a beautiful alpine backdrop, making it a truly refreshing experience.

Stewart Falls

Stewart Falls, nestled on the eastern slope of Mount Timpanogos, is one of Utah’s most beautiful and accessible waterfalls, often described as a multi-tiered bridal veil due to its graceful, fanning cascades. What makes it unique is the picturesque hike required to reach it, winding through a serene aspen and pine forest, offering stunning views of the surrounding mountains and canyons. The trail itself is a delightful journey, especially in autumn when the aspens turn a brilliant gold.

The falls drop approximately 200 feet over several ledges, creating a truly majestic sight. It’s a perfect destination for families, couples seeking a romantic outing, and solo hikers looking for a moderate, rewarding trek. The natural beauty and the relatively easy access make it a beloved classic among Utah’s outdoor enthusiasts, offering a quintessential mountain waterfall experience.

Upper Calf Creek Falls

Upper Calf Creek Falls, located within the Grand Staircase-Escalante National Monument, offers a truly unique and adventurous experience, demanding a more challenging approach than its lower counterpart. What makes this waterfall special is its remote, rugged beauty and the intricate geology surrounding it. The hike involves navigating rocky terrain, slickrock, and some scrambling, leading to a secluded oasis where water plunges into a deep, cool pool.

The journey itself is an adventure, with stunning views of the red rock landscape. It’s ideal for experienced hikers, solo adventurers seeking solitude, and those who appreciate a more strenuous, less crowded wilderness experience. The reward is a pristine waterfall in a truly wild setting, offering a profound sense of accomplishment and connection to the raw beauty of Southern Utah’s canyon country.

Lower Calf Creek Falls

Lower Calf Creek Falls, a true oasis in the heart of Grand Staircase-Escalante National Monument, is a breathtaking 126-foot cascade plunging into a large, inviting pool. What makes this place truly unique is the vivid contrast between the lush, riparian corridor and the surrounding arid desert landscape. The hike is a relatively flat, well-maintained trail that winds along Calf Creek, passing ancient granaries, pictographs, and diverse plant life, making the journey as captivating as the destination.

The reward is a magnificent waterfall, often described as a desert paradise, perfect for a refreshing swim on a hot day. It’s an ideal destination for families, casual hikers, and anyone looking for a moderately easy hike to a spectacular payoff. The interpretive signs along the trail also offer fascinating insights into the area’s natural and cultural history, enriching the experience.

Battle Creek Falls

Battle Creek Falls, nestled in Pleasant Grove, offers a surprisingly rugged and rewarding hike to a beautiful multi-tiered waterfall, just a short drive from the city. What makes it special is its accessibility for a quick escape into nature, combined with a trail that feels more remote than its urban proximity suggests. The hike follows Battle Creek, winding through a shaded canyon with several small stream crossings, making it a delightful adventure, especially for children.

The waterfall itself is a series of cascades tumbling over moss-covered rocks, creating a serene and picturesque scene. It’s a fantastic spot for families, dog walkers, and anyone looking for a moderate, refreshing hike without venturing too far from the northern Utah valley. Its name comes from a historical skirmish, adding a touch of local history to this natural beauty.

Plan Your Visit

From the thundering cascades of Bridal Veil Falls to the serene, mineral-rich pools of Fifth Water Hot Springs, Utah’s waterfalls offer an incredible spectrum of natural beauty and adventure that will redefine your perception of this diverse state. You’ve discovered that beyond the iconic red rock, a vibrant world of rushing water, lush canyons, and hidden oases awaits.

Whether you’re seeking a challenging backcountry trek, a refreshing swim in a desert paradise, or simply a peaceful moment by a roadside cascade, Utah’s waterfalls deliver unforgettable experiences for every traveler. So, pack your hiking boots, your swimsuit, and a sense of wonder! With this comprehensive guide, including detailed cost breakdowns and insider tips, you’re now fully equipped to plan your perfect waterfall adventure. Don’t just dream about these natural wonders; go forth and let the mesmerizing beauty of Utah’s cascading waters wash over you, leaving you refreshed, inspired, and eager for your next exploration.