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If you catch it at the right time, the waterfalls at Gunlock State Park in Utah are an unbelievable natural phenomenon that should be on anyone’s bucket list. Located roughly one hour from Zion National Park and 20 minutes north of the small town of Ivins, Utah, Gunlock State Park offers a refreshing escape from Southern Utah’s desert heat. Best known for its seasonal waterfalls, serene blue-hued waters, and dramatic red rock backdrop, Gunlock State Park is a true hidden oasis in the middle of the desert.
Fully dependent on the rain and snowfall the area receives, the waterfalls occur only when the reservoir reaches capacity and spills over the dam, making them a rare occurrence, happening only a few times every decade or so. At peak flow, the waterfalls cascade over multi-colored sandstone cliffs, transforming the park into a photographer’s dream. Bring your swimsuit to take a plunge in the waters (at your own risk) or enjoy the leisurely 1.2-mile hike to view the waterfalls from a safe distance.
But even when the falls aren’t running, the 260-acre Gunlock Reservoir remains a perfect spot to cool off. Compared to many lakes in the region, Gunlock Reservoir is known for having warmer water, making it a popular spot for swimming and boating in summer. Visitors can kayak or paddleboard across the calm water, take a swim, or find the perfect rock ledge for an afternoon cannonball. With convenient rentals available from Dig Paddlesports, getting out on the water is simple and fun. Whether you’re camping nearby or just in for the day, Gunlock is a scenic, laid-back alternative to the more crowded parks in the region.
Note: while Gunlock State Park is typically quiet with few crowds, when the waterfalls are flowing, you can expect thousands of visitors, which is still far fewer than the nearly 5 million visitors Zion National Park sees each year.