Named for its use as a natural pen for calves back in the late 1800’s and early 1900’s, the creek remained relatively unknown as a tourist destination until the formation of the Grand Staircase-Escalante National Monument, under the Clinton administration. Walking between mineral-streaked cliffs of Navajo Sandstone, hikers pass beaver ponds and pre-historic rock art sites en route to the paradisiacal pools.

Trail Head: 37.794049, -111.414733
Trail Type: Hiking
Length: 5.84 roundtrip
Difficulty: Moderate

The trailhead is located at the Calf Creek Campground on Highway 12, 11 miles south of the town of Boulder, and 15 miles east of the town of Escalante. The highway follows the route of the creek for most of the distance, atop the bluff to the east of the canyon.

Lodges in Boulder

Bundle & Save

Get more, spend less whenever you see Bundle & Save deals

OneKeyCash

Earn OneKeyCash on all your eligible bookings

Upfront pricing

We are not like the others - we include taxes and fees

Check prices for these dates

Next weekend

In two weeks

In one month

In two months

Lodges in Boulder

"We had to check in late but it wasn't a problem. Had a great stay!"

$84 nightly

Oct 5 - Oct 6

Total with taxes and fees

"Great place,"

$205 nightly

Oct 5 - Oct 6

Total with taxes and fees

"Such a wonderful peaceful location. Excellent base for exploring, and comfortable accommodation. Would stay again for sure"

"We for sure come and stay there again!! "

View all properties

Save an average of 15% on thousands of hotels when you're signed in

Top Boulder Hotel Reviews

Days Inn by Wyndham Torrey Capital Reef

10/10 Excellent

"Office staff is very friendly and helpful. Nice breakfast."

Circle of Destination Motel

10/10 Excellent

"Our room 11 was very clean (wood floor, furniture including the drawers, sink, toilet, shower drained properly)). We stayed 2 nights with 4 bath towels and plenty other towels. No need for second day cleaning, but could had left a note for cleaning if needed. Parking was great too. We received the email with our room number and door code. No need for front desk checkin. "