Utah's Rare Red Rock Waterfalls Return After Dry Winter

Water is pouring over the crimson cliffs of Gunlock State Park in southwest Utah, creating a rare natural wonder that appears just once every few years.

The waterfalls at Gunlock Reservoir, located about 20 miles northwest of St. George, started flowing in late February after the reservoir exceeded 105 percent capacity. When water spills over the edge, it cascades across red rock boulders below in a display that locals and visitors alike find mesmerizing.

"The red rocks and the waterfalls, it's something that you expect to see in a movie, not in real life," Carson Hadley, a college student visiting the area, told local reporters.

This marks only the fourth time the falls have appeared in the past 15 years. The last occurrence was in 2024, making each appearance a special event that draws nature lovers from across the region.

"It's absolutely gorgeous," said Pamela Selemon, who traveled from Mesquite, Nevada, to see the spectacle. "You can't beat it. You can't get that anywhere else."

The falls typically flow in late spring, but only during years when enough rain has accumulated in preceding months. This winter was hot and dry across much of the western United States, but recent storms and runoff from a summer wildfire temporarily filled the reservoir to the brim.

Visitors should take care when exploring the natural wonder. The short hike to view the falls requires walking over slippery rocks, and state officials are urging caution around the swift water.

The pools beneath the falls are only two to three feet deep in most places, making diving or jumping extremely dangerous. Park officials have posted warnings reminding visitors that rocks are slick and hazards exist beneath the water's surface.

The Bright Side

Even though southwest Utah faced a dry winter, nature found a way to deliver this spectacular gift. The temporary overflow has created a rare opportunity for thousands of people to witness something truly extraordinary.

While water managers remain watchful about summer water supplies, with some reservoirs at 70 percent of normal levels, the community is being asked to use water consciously rather than face any crisis. The stunning waterfalls serve as both a celebration of nature's beauty and a gentle reminder of water's precious role in the desert landscape.

For now, the falls continue to flow, offering a breathtaking experience that visitors won't soon forget.