Utah waterfalls — a surprise and a bounty of beauty

Utah. A land of striking red rocks, vast deserts, and majestic mountains. But did you know that among these geological masterpieces hides another secret worth uncovering—Utah’s stunning waterfalls. Just because you may not be visiting them in person, doesn’t mean we can’t enjoy them. Whether you’re drawn to towering drops, serene desert oases, or quirky formations, Utah has it all. Let’s take a virtual journey through some of Utah’s most famous waterfalls.

Pack your imagination and settle in as we explore five incredible waterfalls and, of course, enjoy the jigsaw puzzle along the way!

Bridal Veil Falls

This waterfall doesn’t stand out for its name—there are dozens of Bridal Veil Falls in the US alone. However, this is one of Utah’s most iconic waterfalls, with a dramatic 600-foot cascade that tumbles down Provo Canyon. Its accessibility makes it a favorite, as you can view the falls from the comfort of your car or take a short, paved stroll to a closer vantage point.

Fun Fact #1: The falls are used for ice climbing in the winter.

Calf Creek Falls

Tucked away in the Grand Staircase-Escalante National Monument, Calf Creek Falls feels like a hidden desert treasure. The 126-foot lower falls plunge into a crystal-clear pool, surrounded by vibrant greenery and red rock cliffs—a stark contrast that photographers adore.

Fun Fact #2: Calf Creek Falls got its name from the nearby creek where early settlers once kept their calves to graze and drink water while taking advantage of the landscape to pen them in.

Donut Falls

Close to Salt Lake City, Donut Falls is a quirky gem. True to its name, the waterfall flows through a circular hole in the rock, creating a “donut” shape that’s captivating and unique.

Fun Fact #3: The donut-shaped hole was formed by centuries of water erosion, showcasing the power of nature over time.

Stewart Falls

Located near the Sundance Resort, Stewart Falls features a mesmerizing two-tiered cascade. Surrounded by dense forests, it offers a cool retreat in the heat of summer and a calming spectacle year-round.

Fun Fact #4: Imagining the 4-mile round-trip hike to Stewart Falls is an adventure in itself. Many travel blogs and YouTube videos showcase the trail’s breathtaking views of Mount Timpanogos, blending Utah’s mountain beauty with the amazing soundscape of cascading water.

Fifth Water Hot Springs Waterfall

Combining the best of relaxation and natural beauty, Fifth Water Hot Springs Waterfall in Diamond Fork Canyon is a photographer’s dream. Picture a soothing cascade falling into serene turquoise pools surrounded by lush canyon walls.

Fun Fact #5: The hot springs are located near the waterfalls, offering several soaking pools with varying temperatures, making it a unique combination of hot springs and waterfalls.

Explore Utah’s Natural Beauty from Anywhere

Though you may not be trekking through Provo Canyon or soaking in Diamond Fork’s hot springs today, Utah’s waterfalls still have the power to captivate from afar. Whether it’s Bridal Veil’s towering cascade or Donut Falls’ unique charm, each waterfall offers a different story waiting to be discovered—virtually or otherwise.

If you enjoyed this week’s Friday Morning Post, please leave a comment with your time on the puzzle. I’d also love to hear your thoughts on the post! Thanks for being here!

See all my Friday Morning Posts here. If you missed last week’s post, you can use this link to view The Hidden Blooms of Zion National Park Wildflowers.