Toquerville Falls, Utah: Directions, 4x4 Road Tips and When to Go

Toquerville Falls is a series of small waterfalls and swimming pools on a desert creek north of Toquerville, reached by a rough dirt road that's half the adventure. On summer weekends it's one of the most popular off-road destinations near Zion, drawing families in side-by-sides and Jeeps. Here's how to get there, what vehicle you need, and when to go. For homes nearby, see Toquerville homes for sale.

Getting There

1. From I-15, take exit 27 toward Toquerville and head east on State Route 17.
2. Turn left on Spring Drive and follow it out of town. The pavement continues for about 5.8 miles.
3. Where the pavement ends, a sign warns of an extremely rough road with four-wheel drive recommended. From there it's roughly 5.3 more miles of dirt and rock to the falls, about 45 minutes of slow driving.

Phone map apps don't always route correctly to the falls, so download an offline map or use a trail app before leaving town, since cell service can be spotty.

What Vehicle You Need

The road is rocky, with ledges and washouts that change after storms. A high-clearance four-wheel-drive vehicle or a side-by-side is the right choice; low-clearance cars won't make it. Longer, more technical approaches exist, including routes through La Verkin Creek with many water crossings, but those are for experienced off-roaders. Utah's off-highway vehicle rules apply on the way; details are on the Utah Division of Outdoor Recreation site.

At the Falls

The falls spill over sandstone ledges into a chain of pools. Swimming is popular once the water warms, usually from about June on. Some visitors jump from ledges into the deeper pools when water levels allow; check depth carefully first, since levels change. Bring shade, water and bug spray, since small biting insects can be thick near the water in summer.

When to Go

• Late spring through early fall is the main season for swimming.
• Weekdays and early mornings are quieter; summer weekends can be crowded.
• Skip it after rain and in winter. The road gets muddy and slick, and flash floods can run through the area during monsoon storms from July through September.

Know Before You Go

• There are no services at the falls. Pack out all trash.
• Primitive camping is available in the area for self-contained campers.
• Drive slowly and yield on narrow sections; the road is shared by trucks, Jeeps and side-by-sides.
• Tell someone your plan, and carry a spare tire, tools and extra water.

More Nearby

Toquerville and La Verkin sit on the road to Zion, close to Zion Canyon Hot Springs, Sand Hollow State Park and Zion National Park. See things to do in La Verkin and this guide to Zion Canyon Hot Springs. For life in the area, read about living in Hurricane, La Verkin and Toquerville.

Bottom Line

Toquerville Falls rewards a rough drive with cool pools in the middle of the desert. Bring the right vehicle, go when the road is dry, and plan for summer crowds. For help finding a home near the Zion corridor, contact Best Utah Real Estate.