Remarkable Southern Utah Hikes : Adventures With A Splash

When most people think of Southern Utah hiking, they picture red rocks, endless sunshine, and enough sandstone to fill a geology textbook. What many visitors don't realize is that some of the region's most memorable hikes include waterfalls, streams, swimming holes, and cool canyon pools.

Whether you're looking to beat the summer heat or simply enjoy a different side of Utah's desert landscape, these hikes offer a refreshing reward at the end of the trail.

If Southern Utah had a "must-see" waterfall, this would be it.

Located within the Grand Staircase-Escalante National Monument, Lower Calf Creek Falls rewards hikers with a stunning 126-foot waterfall pouring into a large pool surrounded by towering canyon walls. The roughly six-mile round-trip hike follows a relatively gentle trail through a beautiful desert canyon filled with ancient rock art, wildlife, and incredible scenery.

The waterfall creates an oasis that feels almost out of place in the desert. Many hikers cool off with a swim, though be warned: the water stays chilly year-round.

Best for: Families, photographers, and anyone looking for a classic Southern Utah adventure.

Few hikes are as uniquely Southern Utah as Kanarra Falls.

Located near Kanarraville, this popular slot canyon hike takes visitors directly through a flowing creek. You'll cross the water multiple times before reaching the famous waterfall and ladder section tucked inside a narrow red-rock canyon. The first major waterfall appears about 1.6 miles into the hike and has become one of Utah's most photographed hiking destinations.

Expect wet feet. In fact, getting wet is part of the experience.

Permits are required and daily visitor numbers are limited, so planning ahead is recommended.

Best for: Adventurous hikers who don't mind wading through cold water.

If you prefer a shorter trek and don't mind a rugged drive, Toquerville Falls delivers one of the most unique waterfall experiences in Southern Utah.

Unlike many hikes where the waterfall is simply a destination, Toquerville Falls is a place where visitors often spend hours exploring, picnicking, and relaxing. Multiple cascades spill over volcanic rock formations, creating shallow pools perfect for cooling off during warm weather.

While the hike itself is relatively easy, reaching the trailhead often requires a high-clearance vehicle due to rough road conditions.

Best for: Families, photographers, and anyone looking for a half-day adventure.

Located in the Red Cliffs Desert Reserve near Leeds, the Red Reef Trail packs a surprising amount of water into a relatively short hike.

The route follows a small stream through a colorful canyon featuring miniature waterfalls, pools, and occasional water crossings. During wetter months, hikers may even encounter small natural water slides formed by the sandstone.

The trail is short enough for most families but offers enough scenery to keep experienced hikers entertained.

Best for: Quick adventures close to St. George.

Technically located in the Zion area, no list of water hikes would be complete without mentioning The Narrows.

This world-famous hike takes visitors directly into the Virgin River as they walk between towering canyon walls that rise hundreds of feet overhead. Unlike traditional hiking trails, much of the route is spent walking in the river itself.

The experience feels like stepping into another world. Sunlight filters through the narrow canyon while cool water flows around your legs.

Conditions can change quickly depending on weather and river flow, so always check current conditions before heading out.

Best for: Bucket-list adventurers and experienced hikers.

Water hikes are some of Southern Utah's most enjoyable outdoor experiences, but they come with unique challenges.

Flash flooding can occur even when skies are clear overhead, especially in slot canyons. Always check weather forecasts and heed warnings before entering narrow canyon systems. Proper footwear is also essential since many of these hikes involve slippery rocks, stream crossings, and uneven terrain.

Bringing extra water may sound ironic on a water hike, but Southern Utah's heat can still be intense, especially during summer months.

Southern Utah's red-rock deserts may get most of the attention, but its waterfalls, creeks, and hidden swimming holes offer an entirely different side of the landscape. From the towering cascade at Lower Calf Creek Falls to the creek-filled adventure of Kanarra Falls, these hikes prove that some of the best desert adventures involve getting your feet wet.

Just don't be surprised if you find yourself planning your next water hike before you've even dried off from the first one.

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