Upper Calf Creek Falls

Many people have done or heard of Lower Calf Creek Falls, but what about Upper Calf Creek Falls?  This is one of the most fun hikes in Escalante. Short but challenging. The reward is the views, which goes without saying, but also a refreshing cool down if you so choose.

You will start at the trailhead just off of the very scenic Highway 12. Highway 12 coming from Escalante, is some of the craziest views you can have.  When we are in the this area, we will often drive down Highway 12 and stop to enjoy the sunset over Grand Staircase-Escalante. This region is one of the last mapped places in the United States due to how remote it is. Just driving around here will give you sights of a lifetime.

The trail pretty immediately and steeply descends along a rock slab. Side note, this makes for a challenge on the way back to the car! Towards the bottom, watch for the split, stay to the left and you will be able to see the Upper Calf Creek waterfall and pool area. Lots of brush and bugs here but still pretty.

Continue back the way you came and head slightly uphill, where you will then reach the top of Upper Calf Creek Falls. There is not much to see here as far as the waterfall is concerned, you mostly just see the pool ahead of the falls.

The best part is just upstream. There is a pool that has been formed from the creek that you can take a dip in, or jump into if you are so inclined. At your own risk, you can jump off the top of the pool. Be sure to get some distance from the edge so that you clear the wall and get into the deep section. On a hot day and after the hike, the cool water feels so good and it is really fun to make the leap in! The first time we went, we had no idea about the swimming part. The times thereafter, we come prepared with suits and a small towel so that we can swim and have fun without hiking out in soggy clothes.

Difficulty: Strenuous related to the initial descent and return at this same portion.

Trail Stats: 2.0 miles, out and back, 557 feet elevation gain.

Trail Finding: Keep an eye out for cairns, and the downloaded map is helpful.

Conditions: You will mostly hike on rock.

Would I Repeat This: Absolutely! This is a must-do whenever we are in Escalante and always requested by the kids.

Parking: Parking lot available.

Timing: The hardest part of this hike is exposed, be aware of the time of day and the level of exertion with respect to the temperatures.

Downloaded Map: Yes, especially to find the trail split to go towards the pools.

Fees: None.

Trails: So many! Lower Calf Creek Falls, Escalante Natural Bridge, Phipps Arch, Peekaboo and Spooky Slot Canyons, Devils Garden, just to name a few!