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Routes
Hiking trails & Routes
United States
Utah
San Juan County
Spanish Valley

Ken's Lake and Faux Falls Trail

Moderate

3.2

(7)

92

hikers

Ken's Lake and Faux Falls Trail

03:15

11.9km

200m

Hiking

Embark on the Ken's Lake and Faux Falls Trail, a moderate hiking route that offers a refreshing contrast to the desert landscape near Moab, Utah. This 7.4-mile (11.9 km) journey involves a total elevation gain of 644 feet (196 metres), taking you around 3 hours and 14 minutes to complete.…

Last updated: April 23, 2026

Waypoints

A

Start point

Parking

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11.9 km

Faux Falls

Waterfall

B

11.9 km

End point

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Way Types & Surfaces

Way Types

4.54 km

4.00 km

1.92 km

1.47 km

Surfaces

6.62 km

2.33 km

1.64 km

1.19 km

155 m

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Elevation

Elevation

Nothing selected – click and drag below to see the stats for a specific part of the route.

Highest point (1,610 m)

Lowest point (1,520 m)

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Weather

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Today

Saturday 30 May

21°C

11°C

15 %

Additional weather tips

Max wind speed: 14.0 km/h

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This route was planned by komoot.

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Frequently Asked Questions

Where can I park to access the Ken's Lake and Faux Falls Trail?

Parking is available at the Ken's Lake Recreation Site. The trailhead is easily accessible from there, and new signage helps guide hikers.

Is the Ken's Lake and Faux Falls Trail dog-friendly?

Yes, many sections of the trail are considered dog-friendly. The shallow pool at the base of Faux Falls is also a pleasant spot for dogs to cool off.

What is the best time of year to hike this trail?

The trail can be enjoyed year-round. Faux Falls flows best in the spring when water is released to fill Ken's Lake, and the desert often bursts with wildflowers. The late afternoon sun casts beautiful golden hues over the lake and desert.

Are there any permits or entrance fees required for hiking in the Ken's Lake Recreation Site?

The provided information does not indicate any specific permits or entrance fees required for hiking the Ken's Lake and Faux Falls Trail within the Ken's Lake Recreation Site.

What are the different hiking options and their difficulties on this trail?

There are several options:

  • The Lower Faux Falls Trail is an easy 2.0-mile round trip, suitable for families.
  • The Ken's Lake and Faux Falls Loop is an easy 3.4-mile loop.
  • For a more challenging experience, the Upper Faux Falls Trail is a 2.5-mile round trip with moderate elevation gain and sections requiring light scrambling over slickrock.

What is the typical terrain like on the Ken's Lake and Faux Falls Trail?

The trail generally starts on a dirt path with scattered rocks. Early in the season, it can be muddy due to snowmelt, but later it becomes a firm, sandy track. Closer to the falls, the path gets rockier. The Upper Faux Falls Trail involves more rocky sections and slickrock scrambling.

What makes Faux Falls unique, and when does it flow best?

Faux Falls is unique because it is man-made. Water is diverted from Mill Creek through a tunnel to fill Ken's Lake, creating this scenic cascade. It flows best in the spring when water is released to fill the lake, often accompanied by vibrant wildflowers.

Is this trail suitable for families with children?

Yes, the Lower Faux Falls Trail and the Ken's Lake and Faux Falls Loop are considered family-friendly and accessible for children. The shallow pool at the base of Faux Falls is also a great spot for kids to cool off.

What kind of scenery and viewpoints can I expect along the trail?

Hikers can enjoy 360-degree views of the shimmering Ken's Lake, dramatic red rock cliffs, and the distant La Sal Mountains. The area around the falls features vibrant green foliage and the refreshing mist from the water. You'll also see cottonwoods and desert flowers near the creek.

Can I swim or cool off at Faux Falls?

Yes, the pool at the base of Faux Falls is shallow, typically around two to three feet deep, making it a pleasant and safe spot for families and dogs to cool off.

Is the Ken's Lake and Faux Falls Trail a good alternative to more crowded Moab hikes?

Yes, Faux Falls is often considered a hidden gem. It offers a less crowded hiking experience compared to some of Moab's more famous trails, while still providing stunning desert scenery and a rewarding waterfall.

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