Grand Staircase Escalante

"Calf Creek"

September 2012, Grand Staircase Escalante, Utah

Calf Creek is responsible for creating a lush, riparian ecosystem in the middle of the Utah desert. The oasis is a delight to the senses and in stark contrast to the inhospitable desert environment which surrounds the canyon. As you walk through the canyon you are treated to ancient Indian ruins, pictographs, towering canyon walls, and a veritable smorgasbord of flora. Each shrub, tree, and plant offers a completely unique aroma, accompanied all the while by the delightful bubbling of Calf Creek.

This is a hike which demands that you take your time. The hike is mostly level and only 2-3/4 miles each way. As a bonus, spectacular Lower Calf Creek Falls awaits you at the end of the trail. This wonderful day hike should be at the top of the list for visitors to the Grand Staircase. The towns of Escalante and Boulder are both only about 12 miles from the trailhead, and excellent lodging can be found in both.

Calf CreekDesertGrand Staircase Escalante National MonumentOasisRiparianTrailUtahlush