Gunlock Falls Utah
Witness the rare, cascading Gunlock Falls in Utah's red rock desert. A seasonal marvel that draws visitors for its unique beauty and refreshing pools.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Best chance for flow & fewer crowds
Gunlock Falls Utah
Best Time
Best chance for flow & fewer crowds
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Witness the rare, cascading Gunlock Falls in Utah's red rock desert. A seasonal marvel that draws visitors for its unique beauty and refreshing pools.
"The natural beauty of Gunlock Falls, combined with the adrenaline of exploring and jumping into the water, made this one of our favorite spots in Utah."
Check Conditions First! :iphone:
Falls are seasonal! Check the Utah State Parks website before you go.
Go Early to Beat Crowds :clock1:
Weekends get packed. Arrive early for a peaceful experience.
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
The Cascading Falls
Main waterfall area
Witness the rare, stunning cascades that only appear with substantial spring runoff. A truly unique natural wonder.
Natural Swimming Pools
Base of the falls
Cool off in the refreshing pools formed by the falls. Perfect for a dip on a warm day.
Red Rock Scenery
Surrounding park area
Explore the unique red rock formations and enjoy the picturesque desert landscape.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Timing is Everything for Gunlock Falls
+1Prepare for the Elements
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
Check Conditions First! :iphone:
Falls are seasonal! Check the Utah State Parks website before you go.
Go Early to Beat Crowds :clock1:
Weekends get packed. Arrive early for a peaceful experience.
Wear Sturdy Shoes :athletic_shoe:
Rocks can be slippery and sandy. Water shoes or hiking boots recommended.
Bring Water & Sunscreen :droplet:
Little shade available; stay hydrated and protected from the sun.
Tips
from all over the internet
Check Conditions First! :iphone:
Falls are seasonal! Check the Utah State Parks website before you go.
Go Early to Beat Crowds :clock1:
Weekends get packed. Arrive early for a peaceful experience.
Wear Sturdy Shoes :athletic_shoe:
Rocks can be slippery and sandy. Water shoes or hiking boots recommended.
Bring Water & Sunscreen :droplet:
Little shade available; stay hydrated and protected from the sun.
Entry Fee Per Vehicle :ticket:
A small fee applies per car, covering the whole day.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors rave about the rare beauty of Gunlock Falls, especially when flowing, offering a unique natural spectacle with opportunities for swimming and exploring red rock landscapes. However, the falls are highly seasonal, can get extremely crowded, and the area lacks shade, requiring visitors to come prepared with water and sun protection.
"As a family who loves to travel, explore, and create new memories, our visit to Gunlock Falls was nothing short of incredible! The falls provided the perfect backdrop for a day filled with adventure and fun.
We spent hours hiking on the rocks, taking in the breathtaking scenery around us. The highlight for us was swimming in the falls—cool, refreshing, and an absolute thrill. For those seeking a bit more excitement, the cliff jumping was a fantastic experience that we’ll never forget. *If jumping, use extreme caution, always test water depth, this can be very dangerous.
The natural beauty of Gunlock Falls, combined with the adrenaline of exploring and jumping into the water, made this one of our favorite spots in Utah.
Park Information:
Gunlock Falls is located in Gunlock State Park, about 15 miles northwest of St. George, Utah. The falls are seasonal, typically appearing in the spring when the Gunlock Reservoir overflows. The park offers easy access to the falls, with parking available nearby. It’s a perfect spot for picnicking, photography, and enjoying the unique red rock landscape.
For more information about visiting Gunlock Falls and to check current conditions, visit the Utah State Parks.
If you’re in the area, especially during the spring, we highly recommend visiting Gunlock Falls. It’s a hidden gem that offers something for everyone, whether you’re looking for a peaceful escape or an adventurous outing. We can’t wait to go back and create even more memories here!"
Exploring with Jade
"Really cool place to visit. Fairly easy hike but it does get very hot with little to no shade. We visited when there was no water but it was still beautiful. Don't understand why you need to pay if it's a quick visit."
Zachary Pepin
"This place can get way too crowded, but if you arrive early during the week you may get lucky enough to have this place all to yourself. We had that experience and it was peaceful and amazing. The entry fee is minimal, per car. The "hike" in from the road is fairly simple and only takes maybe 5-10 minutes."
Jeremy Ferre
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
Gunlock Falls is located in Gunlock State Park, about 15 miles northwest of St. George. The drive is scenic and takes approximately 30-40 minutes. Parking is available off the main road near the falls.
Public transport options to Gunlock Falls are very limited. It is best to have your own vehicle or arrange for a ride.
Parking is typically marked off the side of the main road. Arriving early, especially on weekends, is advised as it can fill up quickly.
The hike from the parking area to the falls is short, usually around 0.2 miles, and considered easy.
Restroom facilities are available, though they are often described as vaulted pit toilets.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
There is an entrance fee per vehicle. Utah residents typically pay $10, and non-residents pay $15. This fee covers the entire day.
Advance booking is generally not required for Gunlock Falls State Park. Payment is usually made upon arrival.
While specific discounts aren't widely advertised, the per-vehicle fee is considered minimal by many visitors.
Gunlock State Park is generally open year-round during daylight hours. However, the flow of the falls is entirely dependent on natural conditions.
Yes, even without flowing water, the area offers beautiful red rock scenery and hiking opportunities.
🎫 🏞️ Onsite Experience
Gunlock Falls are seasonal and primarily flow in the spring due to snowmelt. They have been known to go years without flowing.
The hike to the falls is generally considered easy, short, and relatively flat, though some sections can be slippery.
Yes, swimming in the pools at the base of the falls is a popular activity, offering a refreshing experience.
While some visitors engage in cliff jumping, it's crucial to exercise extreme caution, test water depth, and be aware of the inherent dangers.
To avoid crowds and the intense midday heat, visiting in the early morning or late afternoon is recommended.
📸 📸 Photography
The areas around the cascading falls and the natural pools offer stunning photographic opportunities. Experiment with different angles to capture the scale and beauty.
Early morning or late afternoon light provides softer, more dramatic lighting for photography, minimizing harsh shadows.
Drone usage is subject to Utah State Park regulations. It's advisable to check the official park guidelines before flying.
A wide-angle lens is great for capturing the expansive scenery, while a polarizing filter can help manage reflections in the water.
The rare flow of the falls itself is the main photo opportunity. Capturing the water against the red rock is iconic.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
While swimming is a highlight, supervise children closely, especially near the water's edge and if any cliff jumping is occurring. The slippery rocks require extra caution.
🚗 Day-Trippers from St. George
Be prepared for the heat and lack of shade by bringing water and wearing appropriate footwear.
💰 Budget Travelers
Focus on visiting during off-peak times (weekdays, early mornings) to avoid the feeling of being overcrowded, which can detract from the experience.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
The Elusive Flow of Gunlock Falls
+1 Visitors often plan trips around potential flow periods, checking conditions religiously. The last few years have seen good flow, but this is not the norm, so always verify before you travel. When the falls are flowing, they create a series of tiered cascades over the red rock formations. This natural spectacle draws crowds eager to witness this rare phenomenon. The beauty lies not just in the water, but in the contrast between the vibrant water and the stark, beautiful desert landscape.
Pro Tip: Follow the official Utah State Parks website for the most up-to-date information on current conditions and flow status. This will save you a potentially disappointing trip if the falls aren't running.
Navigating the Experience: Crowds and Comfort
Comfort is key when visiting Gunlock Falls. The area offers very little shade, and temperatures can soar, especially during the warmer months. It's crucial to bring ample water to stay hydrated and apply sunscreen generously.
Some visitors have noted that while the hike is short, the toilet facilities are basic (vaulted pit toilets). Being prepared for these amenities is part of the adventure.
Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit