What is Cascade Falls near Duck Creek?
Cascade Falls is a 1.2-mile round-trip hike with less than 150 feet of elevation gain—roughly 30 minutes on trail.
Cascade Falls
Short hike to a scenic waterfall on Cedar Mountain
At a glance
The short version
Cascade Falls is ~20 min drive from Duck Creek from Duck Creek Village Inn and is a strong fit when you want short hike to a scenic waterfall on cedar mountain. Cascade Falls is a 1.2-mile round-trip hike with less than 150 feet of elevation gain—roughly 30 minutes on trail.
Quick facts
| Category | Activity |
|---|---|
| Distance | ~20 min drive from Duck Creek |
| Best for | Short hike to a scenic waterfall on Cedar Mountain |
Good to know
- 1.2 miles round trip, ~30 minutes—easy out-and-back from the trailhead
- Unique waterfall fed by Navajo Lake via a cave; best flow in late spring and early summer
- Pine forest, red rock cliffs, and distant views of Zion and the Markagunt Plateau
Cascade Falls is a 1.2-mile round-trip hike with less than 150 feet of elevation gain—roughly 30 minutes on trail. Water from Navajo Lake travels through a lava-tube cave system and pours out of the cliff face, then cascades down red rock into the headwaters of the North Fork of the Virgin River. The well-maintained gravel path has wooden stairs and benches, with views of the Markagunt Plateau and Zion in the distance. It’s a great add-on for families and anyone who wants big scenery without an all-day commitment.
Highlights
- 1.2 miles round trip, ~30 minutes—easy out-and-back from the trailhead
- Unique waterfall fed by Navajo Lake via a cave; best flow in late spring and early summer
- Pine forest, red rock cliffs, and distant views of Zion and the Markagunt Plateau
- Pit toilets at the parking area; dogs allowed; no entrance fee (Dixie National Forest)
- Pairs well with Navajo Lake, Cedar Breaks, or a scenic Highway 14 drive
Tips
The trailhead is about 3 miles from Duck Creek on a dirt forest road—keep left at intersections. High clearance or 4WD is recommended when the road is rough or wet, but not required in good conditions. Wear sturdy shoes; the gravel can be slippery and there are steep drop-offs, so keep kids close. Bring water and sunscreen; elevation keeps it cooler than the desert but the sun is strong. For the best waterfall flow, visit late May through early July when snowmelt is high; in drier years the flow can taper off by fall.
When to go
Access is seasonal: typically late May through October, depending on snow. The trail is inaccessible in winter and early spring. Early summer offers the strongest waterfall; later in the season you still get the scenery and forest, but the falls may be reduced or dry.
Trip planning details
- Difficulty
- Easy — 1.2 miles round trip, ~150 ft elevation gain
- Drive time
- ~20 min drive from Duck Creek from the inn
- Parking
- Small dirt parking area at the trailhead. Access road is ~3 miles of dirt from Duck Creek — high clearance recommended when rough or wet.
- Pets
- Dogs allowed on leash. Keep close near drop-offs.
What to bring
- Sturdy shoes — gravel can be slippery
- Water and sunscreen
- Camera for waterfall and canyon views
- Snacks for a trailside break
Reviewed March 2026 by Duck Creek Village Inn editorial team
Why trust this guide
We shape these Duck Creek guide pages around the route, timing, and packing questions guests ask before they book. Before you drive, cross-check seasonal access and weather with the official resources here.
Planning Cascade Falls
The questions trip planners usually ask next.
How far is Cascade Falls from Duck Creek Village Inn?
Cascade Falls is ~20 min drive from Duck Creek from Duck Creek Village Inn based on the current guide data.
When should I plan Cascade Falls?
Access is seasonal: typically late May through October, depending on snow. The trail is inaccessible in winter and early spring. Early summer offers the strongest waterfall; later in the season you still get the scenery and forest, but the falls may be reduced or dry.
Stay Here, Explore Cascade Falls Tomorrow
Book your room or cabin at Duck Creek Village Inn - ~20 min drive from Duck Creek from Cascade Falls.