The best walks and hikes in Steep Creek Wilderness Study Area

The Burr Trail OHV Road is less a single trail and more a gateway to some of Utah's most wild and spectacular canyon systems, offering a diverse hiking experience through Grand Staircase-Escalante and Capitol Reef National Park. You'll traverse varied terrain, from paved sections near Boulder to graded dirt roads that wind past Navajo Sandstone domes and through dramatic red rock formations. The highlight for many is the historic Burr Trail Switchbacks, a series of steep hairpin turns that descend an 800-foot rock escarpment, providing breathtaking views of the Waterpocket Fold and the Henry Mountains.

This is a difficult 76.8-mile (123.6 km) route with 5318 feet (1621 metres) of elevation gain, typically taking around 33 hours and 39 minutes to complete. While the main route is a road, many designated and undesignated hiking opportunities exist off it, ranging from easy walks like Pedestal Alley to strenuous, multi-day backpacking trips. Be aware that the unpaved sections can become muddy and impassable in wet conditions, even for 4WD vehicles, so check weather forecasts before you go. Always carry ample water, as shade is limited, and strong navigation skills are essential for exploring side canyons.

The Burr Trail is recognized as a scenic byway, providing continuous visual appeal and access to remarkable geological formations like the vividly colored Waterpocket Fold and the red Circle Cliffs. It's a historical route, originally a cattle trail developed by John Atlantic Burr, and offers a sense of untouched wilderness. Spring and fall are the best times to visit for milder temperatures, making it an ideal choice for experienced hikers seeking remote beauty and geological wonders.

Imagine a vibrant ribbon of green cutting through a vast, arid landscape; that's the essence of the Lower Calf Creek Falls Trail. This easy 2.9-mile (4.6 km) hike guides you along Calf Creek, where cottonwoods and lush vegetation thrive against a backdrop of towering, multi-hued Navajo sandstone cliffs. The path itself is often sandy, making some sections feel like a beach walk, but the constant presence of the creek and the dramatic canyon walls keep things interesting. The ultimate reward is the stunning 126-foot Lower Calf Creek Falls, plunging into a cool, deep pool. Expect to spend about 1 hour and 14 minutes on this route, gaining a gentle 111 feet (34 metres) in elevation. It's a fantastic choice for families or anyone looking for a high-reward, relatively short hike in a unique desert setting.

This popular trail is easily accessed off Highway 12, but its fame means the parking lot can fill up very quickly, especially during spring and fall. Your best bet is to arrive early in the morning to secure a spot and beat the heat, which can be intense in the desert. While no permit is required, always carry plenty of water, particularly if you're hiking in warmer conditions. The trail is well-maintained, making it suitable for most ability levels, but the sandy terrain can add a bit of extra effort to your steps.

What truly sets this trail apart is its striking contrast: a lush, flowing oasis nestled within the stark beauty of Grand Staircase-Escalante National Monument. Beyond the impressive waterfall, you'll discover ancient pictographs from the Fremont people tucked into the canyon walls, offering a fascinating glimpse into thousands of years of human history. The cool, green plunge pool at the base of the falls is a popular spot for a refreshing dip, making it a memorable experience that combines natural beauty with cultural significance.

The Upper Calf Creek Falls Trail offers a dramatic journey through the Grand Staircase-Escalante National Monument, leading to a spectacular 87-88-foot waterfall. You'll navigate a mix of white to golden-colored Navajo sandstone slickrock and sandy paths, with far-reaching vistas of the Pink Cliffs and Straight Cliffs. Near the falls, the arid landscape gives way to a lush oasis of cottonwoods and hanging gardens, creating a serene environment for a refreshing dip in the clear pools.

This 1.9-mile (3.0 km) hiking route, with 557 feet (170 metres) of elevation gain, is rated easy but involves a steep slickrock descent at the start, making the 1 hour and 2 minutes return climb particularly strenuous. Good traction footwear is essential for the initial friction pitches, and cairns help guide the way. It's a quieter alternative to the more popular Lower Calf Creek Falls, making it ideal for those seeking solitude.

Beyond the main waterfall, the trail also leads to pools above the falls, offering unique infinity pool-like views perfect for swimming. Be mindful of poison ivy near the base of the falls. This trail provides a distinct character with its varied terrain, including unique slickrock and volcanic boulders, making it a notable natural feature in the region.

The Lower Calf Creek Falls Trail offers a unique journey through a desert canyon, where towering Navajo sandstone walls give way to a surprisingly lush riparian corridor. You'll follow Calf Creek, often spotting cottonwoods and desert vegetation, before reaching the stunning 126-foot Lower Calf Creek Falls, which plunges into a cool, emerald pool. The trail itself is a moderate 10.8-mile (17.4 km) hike with 768 feet (234 metres) of elevation gain, typically taking around 4 hours and 43 minutes, but be prepared for tiring sandy sections that add to the effort.

When planning your visit, remember that the trail can be particularly challenging due to heat, especially during summer months, so bringing adequate water is crucial. The trailhead provides an interpretive brochure highlighting various points of interest, including ancient rock art and granaries. Parking is available, but as this is one of the more popular trails, arriving early is recommended to secure a spot.

Beyond the impressive waterfall, the trail is rich with historical and natural features. You might discover ancient pictographs created by the Fremont people between 700 and 1300 AD, tucked into cliff ledges, or even spot beaver dams along the creek. This combination of natural beauty, historical elements, and the refreshing oasis at the end makes Lower Calf Creek Falls a truly iconic and rewarding experience in the Grand Staircase-Escalante National Monument.