Most of Utah’s natural wonders are available for us to view all the time. We can always witness the awe-inspiring overlook at Dead Horse Point State Park, and we can soak in the beauty of Bridal Veil Falls even when it’s iced over during the winter. There’s one natural wonder that’s rarely seen – the waterfalls at Gunlock State Park. They flowing right now, and you’re not going to want to miss them!
In 1970, Gunlock State Park was founded so that Utahns could enjoy its beauty. You’ll find the park just 15 miles northwest of St. George.
Tom V/Google
The park, with its beautiful reservoir, was named after a local settler, William “Gunlock Will” Hamblin, who was a renowned marksman and also particularly adept at repairing the gunlocks on muzzle loader rifles.
Christina Coloradoan/Google
The park encompasses 548.5 acres of stunning desert scenery, and it’s been left fairly primitive so that visitors can experience a wild, natural setting.
Susan Bright/Google
And when Utah receives more water than usual in the spring, Gunlock Reservoir overflows its banks.
Trish Smith
The water pours over the edges, through naturally carved channels, creating stunning waterfalls. Though there’s typically a only small trickle every spring, waterfalls this stunning are rare.
Trish Smith
According to park manager Jon Allred, the last time Gunlock State Park enjoyed these waterfalls was seven years ago, and they won’t last for long. As the weather dries up and local farmers start drawing from the reservoir for irrigation, its water levels will go back down and the waterfalls will disappear once again.
Trish Smith
If you visit, make sure to stay safe and stay back away from ledges, and keep a close eye on children and pets.
Trish Smith Gunlock State Park is open every day from 7 a.m. to 8 p.m.. The park’s day use fee is $10 per vehicle (seniors pay just $5).
Do you have plans to visit Gunlock State Park to see this incredible sight? If so, tag the friends you want to join you!
Tom V/Google
Christina Coloradoan/Google
Susan Bright/Google
Trish Smith
Gunlock State Park is open every day from 7 a.m. to 8 p.m.. The park’s day use fee is $10 per vehicle (seniors pay just $5).
We’d like to give a special shout out to Trish Smith, who shared her photos of the falls in our Utah Nature Lovers Group, and gave us special permission to use them here. If you love capturing Utah’s beauty and would like to share your own photos with us, join today!
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The OIYS Visitor Center
January 01, 1970
Target keyword phrase: waterfalls near me Additional suggested keywords: best waterfall hikes in STATE/CITY, hiking trails with waterfalls in STATE/CITY, name of waterfall in STATE/CITY
The OIYS Visitor Center
January 01, 1970
Target keyword phrase: waterfalls near me Additional suggested keywords: best waterfall hikes in STATE/CITY, hiking trails with waterfalls in STATE/CITY, name of waterfall in STATE/CITY
The OIYS Visitor Center
The OIYS Visitor Center
Additional suggested keywords:
best waterfall hikes in STATE/CITY,
hiking trails with waterfalls in STATE/CITY,
name of waterfall in STATE/CITY
