Lower Jump
Utah • Canyonlands National Park
By Armen Suny · Last verified Sep 2026
LiDAR & 3D terrain
Photo Credits (5)
Difficulty
Moderate
Trail Length
2.0 miles
Trail Type
Out And Back
Elevation Gain
300 ft
About Lower Jump
Lower Jump is a scenic waterfall tucked into Canyonlands National Park and managed by the National Park Service. The drop is a peaceful reward after a short hike, framed by the park’s rugged desert rock and sparse vegetation. It’s an inviting spot for photographers and hikers looking for a quiet slice of Canyonlands away from the busiest viewpoints. The hike to Lower Jump is a 2.0-mile out-and-back trail with about 300 feet of elevation gain and is rated moderate, making it a doable half-day outing for most moderately fit hikers. Camping is nearby — the Canyonlands National Park Needles District Campground lies approximately 3.94 km away — so the waterfall can easily be combined with an overnight in the Needles district for a longer visit.
The Setting
Lower Jump sits at 4,606 feet within Canyonlands National Park, fed by the Colorado River, in the mountains of Utah.
Trail & Hike Details
The Approach
The moderate 2.0-mile out-and-back trail gains 300 feet of elevation on the way to the falls.
Trail Description
The trail to Lower Jump is an out-and-back route of roughly 2.0 miles round trip with about 300 feet of cumulative elevation gain and a moderate grade. The surface is primarily dirt with rocky sections and some uneven footing; the route is non-technical (hiking difficulty: moderate). Expect desert vegetation and open rock scenery along the way. Managed by the National Park Service within Canyonlands National Park, the trail is commonly used for day hikes and is accessible from the Needles district area.
What to Expect
Visitors can expect a peaceful hike leading to a beautiful waterfall. The area around the waterfall may have rocky surfaces, so caution is advised. Seasonal water flow can affect the appearance and intensity of the waterfall.
Accessibility
The trail is not wheelchair accessible. Uneven terrain and elevation changes require steady footing.
Frequently Asked Questions
🐶 Are Dogs Allowed at Lower Jump?
❌ Dogs are not allowed
Are There Any Fees or Permits Required?
🆖 No fees required
🏊 Is There Swimming at Lower Jump?
❌ Swimming is not allowed
When to Visit
Spring and early summer are ideal for visiting Lower Jump, as the waterfall is typically more active due to snowmelt and seasonal rains.
Seasonal Access
The best time to visit is Spring, Summer, and Fall. Winter access may be limited. Watch for flash flood warnings during monsoon season (July through September). Check with Canyonlands National Park for current conditions.
Safety Information
Visitors should be cautious of slippery rocks near the waterfall and stay on marked trails. Carry sufficient water and be prepared for changing weather conditions.
Current Water Conditions
Based on a USGS gauge 19.9 miles away
5,890 ft³/s
Current discharge — how much water is flowing
About average for this time of year
Based on 3 years of record
27.70 ft
Water depth at gauge
68°F
CoolRefreshing for swimming
7-Day Discharge Trend
What does this mean for your visit?
Flow is about average for this time of year. Water temperature is a refreshing 68 degrees F, good for a quick swim. Mineral content is elevated.
Water Quality
Conductance
Dissolved minerals in the water
About This Gauge
This gauge is on a regional waterway. Conditions at the falls may differ, especially after local rain.
7-Day Flow Outlook
Based on the USGS gauge COLORADO RIVER AT GYPSUM CANYON NEAR HITE, UT (32 km away).
Today
Moderate
6715 cfs
4/10Tomorrow
Moderate
7103 cfs
4/10Thu
Moderate
6216 cfs
8/10Fri
Low
5759 cfs
6/10Sat
Low
5709 cfs
6/10Sun
Low
5589 cfs
6/10Mon
Low
5518 cfs
6/10Best window: Thu — moderate flow, sunny (trip score 8/10).
Best time of year: this gauge typically runs highest from late April to mid July, peaking in June.
How we calculate this
This is a transparent outlook, not a precise forecast. We take the waterfall's current flow strength (how it ranks against its historical normal for today, from the nearest USGS stream gauge), carry that ranking forward along the gauge's seasonal curve, and nudge it for forecast rain. Confidence is highest for the next day or two and falls further out. Always check official conditions and your own judgment before visiting — high flows can be dangerous.
Know when to go.
Get a free email alert when waterfalls near La Sal hit peak flow. We only send when conditions are worth the trip — no weekly newsletters, no spam.
Weather Forecast
The Terrain, Seen by LiDAR
Aircraft-mounted lasers measured this ground to within inches. Trees and buildings are digitally stripped away, leaving the bare shape of the land the water has carved.
The laser survey finds one clean step here: roughly 293 feet of drop concentrated at the brink. Elevation at the pin is about 4,648 feet.
The whole reach is steep: about 118 feet of descent in the 500 feet above the falls and another 283 feet in the 500 feet below. The falls face southwest and glow in afternoon and evening light.
Drag to compare. The dot marks the waterfall. The frame is about a mile across.
- Ground elevation
- 4,648 feet
- Measured by 1-meter lidar
- Drop at the falls
- About 293 feet
- Change in ground height within ~250 feet of the falls
- Faces
- Southwest
- Glows in afternoon and evening light.
A slice through the lidar ground surface, from above the falls to downstream (heading southwest).
Elevation data: USGS 3D Elevation Program. Aerial imagery: USGS The National Map. Public domain.
Location & Access
Getting There
Lower Jump is located in a remote area of Utah. Access typically requires navigating dirt roads and a short hike. Visitors should consult local maps or GPS for precise directions.
Get Directions on Google MapsParking
Parking may be available at a nearby trailhead, but the availability and condition of parking areas can vary. Visitors should prepare for limited or unpaved parking options.
Elevation
4,606 feet above sea level
Coordinates
38.193876° N, -109.791789° W
Land Management
Managed by NPS
Visitor Tips & Gear
Wear sturdy hiking shoes and bring plenty of water, especially during warmer months. Check weather conditions before visiting, as rain can make the trail slippery. Early mornings or weekdays are recommended to avoid crowds.
As an Amazon Associate, we earn from qualifying purchases.
With 2.0 miles and 300 ft of elevation gain, sturdy boots and trekking poles will help on this moderate trail. Sun exposure on the trail makes good sun protection a must in summer.
America the Beautiful Annual Pass
Covers entrance fees at 2,000+ federal recreation sites — required at most National Parks.
Polarized Sunglasses (Knockaround)
Cuts glare off the water so you actually see the falls — and your photos turn out better too.
Columbia Watertight II Rain Jacket
Packs into its own pocket, seam-sealed, and keeps you dry from spray and surprise rain.
Earth Pak Waterproof Dry Bag
Keeps your phone and gear dry when waterfall mist soaks everything else.
Waterproof Phone Pouch (AiRunTech)
Cheap insurance — take photos right next to the falls without killing your phone.
Timberland Euro Sprint Mid Waterproof
Trusted waterproof boot with premium leather and grippy rubber sole — reliable on rocky, wet trails.
TrailBuddy Trekking Poles
Lightweight aluminum, cork grips, and flip-locks that actually hold — a best-seller for good reason.
Where to Stay
ULUM Moab
Pack Creek ~ Creekside West
Pack Creek ~ Farm House
Moab Grand View - Secluded Breathtaking Views
Browse vacation cabins and private rentals nearby
Unique outdoor stays — tents, yurts, and treehouses
Rent a campervan or RV for your waterfall road trip
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Nearby Campground
Canyonlands National Park Needles District Campground
2.4 miles away · 26 sites
Overview The Needles is a remote district located within the southern portion of Canyonlands National Park in southeastern Utah. The Needles District is 1.25 hours driving time from Monticello, Utah, and 1.5 hours from Moab, Utah, and sits at an elevation of approximately 4,900 feet (1494 m). The Needles Campground offers limited services and is best suited to tents and small, self-contained campers and RVs. If you are looking for group campsites, visit the Needles District Group Campground page
Book on Recreation.govNearby Hot Springs
Hot springs near Lower Jump, Utah
Looking for a soak after your hike? Explore more hot springs near Lower Jump, Utah on SoakingSprings.
Explore Utah springsAdditional Information
Nearby Attractions
Nearby attractions may include other hiking trails, desert landscapes, and scenic viewpoints.
Wildlife
The area is home to desert wildlife, including lizards, birds, and small mammals. Visitors should be cautious of snakes and other potentially hazardous animals.
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