Sulphur Creek Route
Hike through a creek, past waterfalls and red rock canyons in this hidden gem of Capitol Reef National Park.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Beat the heat, enjoy the water
Sulphur Creek Route
Best Time
Beat the heat, enjoy the water
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Hike through a creek, past waterfalls and red rock canyons in this hidden gem of Capitol Reef National Park.
"You're literally hiking through a creek, past waterfalls and red rock canyons — and barely anyone knows this exists."
🥾 Wear Water Shoes!
Essential for hiking in the creek. Bring dry shoes for the end of the hike.
🚗 Shuttle or Two Cars Needed
It's a point-to-point trail. Plan your transportation in advance.
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
The Cascading Waterfalls
Along the creek
Experience three stunning waterfalls, with the natural water slide being a unique thrill.
Towering Red Rock Narrows
Within the canyon
Hike through breathtaking slot canyons with soaring red rock walls, a truly immersive experience.
The Natural Water Slide
Mid-hike
A fun and exhilarating natural water slide awaits, adding an element of adventure to your trek.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Embrace the Water Adventure
Logistics for a Seamless Hike
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
🥾 Wear Water Shoes!
Essential for hiking in the creek. Bring dry shoes for the end of the hike.
🚗 Shuttle or Two Cars Needed
It's a point-to-point trail. Plan your transportation in advance.
💧 Pack a Dry Bag
Keep your electronics and dry clothes safe from water.
⚠️ Check Conditions
Flash floods are a risk. Always check weather and park alerts.
Tips
from all over the internet
🥾 Wear Water Shoes!
Essential for hiking in the creek. Bring dry shoes for the end of the hike.
🚗 Shuttle or Two Cars Needed
It's a point-to-point trail. Plan your transportation in advance.
💧 Pack a Dry Bag
Keep your electronics and dry clothes safe from water.
⚠️ Check Conditions
Flash floods are a risk. Always check weather and park alerts.
⬆️ Scrambling Required
Be prepared for steep ledges and pulling yourself up.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors rave about the Sulphur Creek Route's unique beauty, calling it a 'hidden gem' and a 'mini Zion Narrows' experience. The waterfalls, red rock canyons, and refreshing creek hike are major highlights. However, some find the scrambling and water navigation challenging, and transportation logistics can be a hurdle.
"The waterfall at the end is so beautiful! The trail has amazing rock views. It's so worth it to hike this beautiful trail"
Benjamin S
"Awesome trail for a hot day, many of the creek crossing, beautiful views and the waterfall at the end. It could be long if you choose to follow the creek and not do the official trail. Bring your water shoes."
Kaja SWIEB
"On the trail for almost three hours and no one else on the trail. Took plenty of stops on the way. We started around 1 pm. Hiked to the first waterfall and back. Amazing scenery.
Water level low, ankle deep, not cold at all. Would recommend you bring dry shoes for the way back once you are out of the creek on the way back."
Daphne
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
The Sulphur Creek Route is a point-to-point trail. You can start at the Sulphur Creek parking lot (3.3 miles west of the Visitor's Center) and hike down to the Visitor Center, or vice versa. Many visitors use two cars, parking one at each end, or arrange a shuttle service.
Public transport directly to the trailhead is limited. It's best to arrange a private shuttle or use two vehicles.
For the top-down experience, park one car at the Visitor Center and drive another to the Sulphur Creek parking lot near Chimney Rock. This allows you to hike downstream towards the Visitor Center.
Yes, you can hike to the lower waterfall and back for a shorter experience, avoiding the need for transportation arrangements.
The trail can be unclear, especially from the Visitor Center side. Following the creek is often the best navigation method.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
No permits are required for the Sulphur Creek Route, making it an accessible adventure.
Capitol Reef National Park is generally open year-round, with the Visitor Center having specific hours. Always check the official NPS website for the most current information.
Yes, there is an entrance fee for Capitol Reef National Park. You can purchase passes at the Visitor Center or online.
While possible year-round, it's best to hike Sulphur Creek when water levels are manageable and flash flood risks are low. Spring and fall are generally ideal.
Pets are not allowed on the Sulphur Creek Route or in the canyon itself, as it's a wilderness area.
🎫 🏞️ Onsite Experience
The full point-to-point hike typically takes 3-5 hours, depending on your pace and how long you stop to enjoy the scenery and waterfalls.
This hike is considered moderate to strenuous due to the water, scrambling over rocks, and navigating waterfalls. It requires good balance and some upper body strength.
Wear quick-drying clothing and sturdy water shoes with good grip. Bring a change of dry shoes for after the hike. A dry bag for your essentials is also highly recommended. +1
There are no restrooms along the Sulphur Creek Route itself. Facilities are available at the Visitor Center.
It can be suitable for older, adventurous children who are comfortable with water and scrambling. Younger children may find it challenging.
📸 📸 Photography
The towering red rock narrows, the three waterfalls, and the natural water slide offer incredible photo opportunities. The play of light and shadow in the canyon is also stunning.
A waterproof camera or a good phone with a waterproof case is ideal. Consider a wide-angle lens to capture the grandeur of the narrows.
Mid-day can offer dramatic light in the narrows, but early morning or late afternoon can provide softer light and fewer harsh shadows.
Use a dry bag or a waterproof camera housing. Be extra cautious when crossing water or near waterfalls.
The entire canyon is a viewpoint! Focus on capturing the scale of the narrows and the beauty of the waterfalls.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
The water can be a refreshing and fun element, especially on a hot day. However, the waterfalls and steep ledges can be challenging for younger or less experienced kids. 💰 Budget Travelers
+1 Packing your own food and water will also save money compared to dining out. The adventure and stunning scenery are priceless! 📸 Photography Enthusiasts
A wide-angle lens is highly recommended to convey the scale of the narrows. Be sure to protect your gear with waterproof cases or dry bags, as you'll be in and around water for most of the hike. Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
Navigating the Waterways
Be aware that the creek bed can be slippery and uneven. The water temperature is generally cool, making it a refreshing experience on a hot day. However, always check the weather forecast for potential flash floods, which can turn this beautiful hike into a dangerous situation.
The Thrill of the Scramble
Planning for the scramble is key. Ensure you have good footwear with excellent grip. If you're hiking with someone shorter or less experienced, be prepared to offer assistance. The effort involved in navigating these sections is often cited as a highlight by those who complete the hike, offering a sense of accomplishment.
Logistics: The Point-to-Point Puzzle
This allows for a seamless hike downstream. Alternatively, you can arrange for a shuttle service to transport you between trailheads. +1Starting from the top (Sulphur Creek trailhead) and hiking down to the Visitor Center is generally preferred as it allows you to descend the waterfalls. If you choose to hike from the Visitor Center up, you'll be climbing the waterfalls, which can be more challenging.
Some visitors have reported luck hitchhiking back to their car, but this should not be relied upon. 
Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit