Waterfall Hikes Around Moab, Utah

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Waterfall Hikes Around Moab, Utah

Welcome to the stunning landscapes of Moab, Utah! Known for its breathtaking red rock formations, desert adventures, and unique geological wonders, Moab is also home to some beautiful waterfall hikes. This guide will focus on easy trails that offer up scenic waterfalls, perfect for families or anyone looking to enjoy a relaxing day in nature.

Best Waterfall Hike Trails

1. Mill Creek Falls Trail

  • Distance: Approximately 4.5 miles round trip
  • Difficulty: Easy
  • Location: Mill Creek Canyon, just a short drive from Moab

Overview: The Mill Creek Falls Trail is an ideal option for those wanting a delightful hike accompanied by beautiful waterfall views. This easy trail meanders alongside the Mill Creek, leading you through lush riparian areas with plenty of opportunities to enjoy the water.

Things to Know:

  • Trailhead Location: Access the Mill Creek Falls Trailhead from the Mill Creek Road. The trail begins with a gradual ascent, making it accessible for all ages.
  • Interesting Facts: The trail is shaded for a majority of its length, which makes it perfect for warmer days. Additionally, the area is home to diverse wildlife, including various birds and small mammals.

Visitor Tips:

  • Bring plenty of water, especially during hotter months.
  • It's advisable to start early in the day to avoid the heat and to capture photos with the soft morning light.

2. La Sal Mountain Loop Waterfall Trail

  • Distance: Approximately 5 miles round trip
  • Difficulty: Easy
  • Location: La Sal Mountains, about 30 minutes from Moab

Overview: For a change of scenery, try the La Sal Mountain Loop Waterfall Trail. This hike provides a refreshing contrast to the arid environment of Moab. The trail winds through lush vegetation and culminates in a charming waterfall that flows throughout the spring and early summer.

Things to Know:

  • Trailhead Location: Access the trail from the La Sal Mountain Loop Road, which is well marked and offers stunning views of the La Sal range.
  • Interesting Facts: These waterfalls are fed by snowmelt and are most vibrant in late spring, making this an incredible time for photographers and nature lovers alike.

Visitor Tips:

  • Bring a light jacket as temperatures can drop significantly at higher elevations, even during summer.
  • Pack a picnic to enjoy near the waterfall while taking in the cooler mountain air.

Driving Directions from Moab

  • Mill Creek Falls Trail: From Moab, head south on Main Street until it turns into Mill Creek Road. Drive about 5 miles until you reach the Mill Creek Falls Trailhead.

  • La Sal Mountain Loop Waterfall Trail: From Moab, take U.S. Route 191 South, then turn left onto La Sal Loop Road. Continue for about 12 miles until you see signs for the trailhead.

Final Thoughts

These waterfall hikes near Moab provide an exceptional way to appreciate the natural beauty of the area while enjoying paths suitable for all skill levels. Don't forget to carry your camera to capture the serene surroundings!

Feel free to reach out if you would like more information on these trails or explore other hike options in the area. Enjoy your adventure in Moab!

Reviews

Laureli Latimer3 months ago
Tried to get to the falls but the path was a bit rough for me just 4 months after knee surgery. But the water is lovely. Liked seeing the arch too
Moo_o5 months ago
Just recently went on June 26th. A flash flood had come through the Friday prior flattening a lot of it. We managed to avoid the actual waterfall on accident and kept going another mile up the canyon. Don’t make that mistake. Also the trail was hard to follow but that could have been me.
Jackie Ayres2 months ago
This was a fantastic hike with our two pups! We passed a few people along the way, but once we got to the falls we had the swimming hole all to ourselves! We let the dogs off leash to swim and cool off, but the water was far too cold for humans in mid September. We still waded up to about our knees though. I do feel like the trail could use better directional markings as there were a few times we were unsure. When in doubt, if travelling with a child or pet, stay closer to the water. If you can go on a weekday, you will have better luck with parking. Weekends are almost impossible to find parking.
Callie Fauntleroy6 months ago
Stunning and Dog friendly! We hiked this in the afternoon on a Sunday. It was pretty packed with many local and out of town folks excited to get to the waterfall (easy to get to, about 1 mile walk primarily in sand, hardest part was crossing water). They had a bunch of people partying and camping out for the day and some even brought huge speakers and played music! It was very cool, but we came for the hike and kept going until we were alone on trail.
Robyn Britt3 months ago
Great hike for all ages. Lots of opportunities to splash in the creek along the way and take a full dip at the waterfall, so you’ll see people hiking in their swimsuits. Be sure to go later in the summer if you have kids or elderly or else the water is too high on the first part of the hike.

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