About Cascade Falls

Cascade Falls is one of Utah's most unusual waterfall experiences — the creek emerges from a limestone cavern before cascading down a colorful, striated canyon wall near Cedar Breaks National Monument. The falls are fed by snowmelt percolating through the Cedar Breaks plateau, emerging where a karst spring intersects the canyon wall in a burst of clear water.

The trail is short but the setting is extraordinary — the pink and orange hoodoos of the Cedar Breaks amphitheater are visible in the distance, and the high elevation (over 9,000 feet) keeps temperatures cool even in midsummer. The area is snow-free from approximately mid-June through October. The combination of geological wonders makes this a must-stop on any southern Utah road trip.

Trail Highlights

• Water emerges from a limestone cavern before cascading — unique geological spectacle
• Located near Cedar Breaks National Monument at over 9,000 feet elevation
• Short trail delivers a spectacular payoff suitable for all fitness levels
• Cool temperatures even in midsummer at high elevation
• Cedar Breaks amphitheater hoodoos visible in the distance from the area

Trail Description

From the Cascade Falls trailhead on the Dixie National Forest road near Cedar Breaks, follow the well-marked trail toward the canyon rim. The path descends gently through aspen and fir forest.

The trail delivers you to the canyon rim and then descends to viewpoints of the falls emerging from the cave mouth and cascading down the colorful canyon wall. The water runs clear and cold from the limestone aquifer above. Return via the same trail.

Tips & What to Bring

• The road to the trailhead may be unpaved — check road conditions after rain
• Visit in July for wildflower meadows on the Markagunt Plateau above Cedar Breaks
• Cedar Breaks National Monument (2 miles away) is a must-see on the same trip
• The high elevation means cool temperatures and possible afternoon thunderstorms — layer up
• Sunset light on the Cedar Breaks amphitheater from the monument rim is extraordinary

Getting There

From Cedar City, UT, take UT-14 East to UT-148 North toward Cedar Breaks National Monument. Before the monument entrance, follow Dixie National Forest signs toward Cascade Falls. GPS: 37.5800, -112.8800.