Milky Falls
By Armen Suny · Last verified Sep 2026
LiDAR & 3D terrainPhoto Credits (1)
About Milky Falls
Milky Falls is a lesser-known waterfall in Utah, prized for its soft, milky-white appearance and quiet, picturesque setting. Tucked away from busier recreation areas, the falls offer a peaceful spot to enjoy cascading water and the surrounding forest without heavy crowds — ideal for hikers seeking a calm natural escape. The waterfall and its access lie within Manti-La Sal National Forest and are managed by the U.S. Forest Service. The most common approach is a moderate 2.4-mile out-and-back hike with roughly 350 feet of elevation gain. For overnight trips, the MANTI COMMUNITY campground is nearby (about 1.96 km away), making it easy to combine a camp-and-hike weekend to explore the falls and surrounding forest.
The Setting
Milky Falls sits at 8,422 feet within Manti-La Sal National Forest, fed by the Manti Creek, in the high alpine of Utah.
Trail & Hike Details
Trail Description
Trail type: out-and-back. Distance: 2.4 miles round trip. Elevation gain: approximately 350 feet. Difficulty: moderate. The route to Milky Falls is known to be less-developed than popular trails; detailed USFS surface, grade, or trail-class data are not specified. Portions of the approach may involve unmarked or faint tread, so hikers should be prepared with a map/GPS, sturdy footwear, and basic route-finding skills. The nearby MANTI COMMUNITY campground (≈1.96 km) provides a convenient base for hikers.
What to Expect
Visitors can expect a peaceful and scenic waterfall surrounded by natural beauty. The area may be remote, and trail conditions could vary depending on the season.
Accessibility
Accessibility information is not available. The trail may not be suitable for individuals with mobility challenges.
Frequently Asked Questions
🐶 Are Dogs Allowed at Milky Falls?
❌ Dogs are not allowed
Are There Any Fees or Permits Required?
🆖 No fees required
🏊 Is There Swimming at Milky Falls?
❌ Swimming is not allowed
When to Visit
Spring and early summer are typically the best times to visit, as water flow is likely to be higher due to snowmelt.
Seasonal Access
The best time to visit is Spring, Summer, and Fall. Access roads and trails may close during winter due to snow. Watch for flash flood warnings during monsoon season (July through September). Check with Manti-La Sal National Forest for seasonal road closures.
Safety Information
Visitors should be prepared for remote conditions, including uneven terrain and potential lack of cell service. Always inform someone of your plans before heading out.
Current Water Conditions
2 ft³/s
Current discharge — how much water is flowing
Much lower than usual for this time of year
Based on 57 years of record
2.72 ft
Water depth at gauge
7-Day Discharge Trend
What does this mean for your visit?
Flow is well below normal for this time of year, so the waterfall may be a trickle.
About This Gauge
7-Day Flow Outlook
Based on the USGS gauge MANTI CREEK BLW DUGWAY CREEK, NR MANTI, UT (5 km away).
Today
Barely Flowing
2 cfs
5/10Tomorrow
Low
3 cfs
3/10Mon
Low
3 cfs
3/10Tue
Low
3 cfs
4/10Wed
Barely Flowing
2 cfs
5/10Thu
Barely Flowing
2 cfs
5/10Fri
Barely Flowing
2 cfs
5/10Best window: Today — barely flowing flow, sunny (trip score 5/10).
Best time of year: this gauge typically runs highest from late April to late 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 Manti 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 ground through the falls loses about 212 feet in steep steps rather than one leap. The ground at the falls is roughly 8,420 feet above sea level.
The whole reach is steep: about 119 feet of descent in the 500 feet above the falls and another 83 feet in the 500 feet below. The falls face northwest and glow in afternoon and evening light.
Drag to compare. The dot marks the waterfall. The frame is about a mile across.
- Ground elevation
- 8,420 feet
- Measured by 1-meter lidar
- Drop at the falls
- About 212 feet
- Change in ground height within ~250 feet of the falls
- Faces
- Northwest
- Glows in afternoon and evening light.
A slice through the lidar ground surface, from above the falls to downstream (heading northwest).
Elevation data: USGS 3D Elevation Program. Aerial imagery: USGS The National Map. Public domain.
Location & Access
Getting There
Specific directions to Milky Falls are not widely documented. Visitors are advised to consult local hiking guides or AllTrails for the most accurate route information.
Get Directions on Google MapsParking
Parking availability near Milky Falls is unclear. Visitors should prepare for limited or informal parking options and plan accordingly.
Elevation
8,422 feet above sea level
Coordinates
39.243266° N, -111.521571° W
Land Management
Managed by USFS
Visitor Tips & Gear
Bring a detailed map or GPS device as the trail may not be well-marked. Check weather conditions before visiting, and wear sturdy footwear suitable for uneven terrain.
This trail sits at 8,422 ft — the air is noticeably thinner
High AltitudeSome visitors experience headaches, fatigue, or shortness of breath at this elevation. Take it slow, stay hydrated, and consider supplemental oxygen if you're coming from a lower altitude.
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Coppertone Sport SPF 50 Sunscreen
UV intensity jumps ~4% per 1,000 ft — at this elevation you can burn in half the time.
Sun Bum SPF 30 Lip Balm (3-Pack)
Lips have almost no natural UV protection and burn fast in thin, dry mountain air.
Liquid I.V. Electrolyte Packets
You lose moisture ~2x faster at elevation — electrolytes help you absorb water efficiently.
ROCKNIGHT Polarized UV400 Sunglasses
High-altitude glare off rock and water is intense — UV400 lenses block 99%+ of UVA/UVB.
Boost Oxygen 10L Canister (2-Pack)
Portable supplemental oxygen for quick relief from headaches and shortness of breath.
Altitude Rx OxyBoost Complex
Antioxidant formula designed to support your body's natural altitude acclimation.
Where to Stay
Laytons Loft Bed and Breakfast
Ranchette Ponderosa - The Freemont #2 at Wind Walker Homestead
Cobblestone Hotel & Suites - Ephraim
Ranchette Ponderosa - The Timpanogos #1 at Wind Walker Homestead
Browse vacation cabins and private rentals nearby
Unique outdoor stays — tents, yurts, and treehouses
Rent a campervan or RV for your waterfall road trip
Some links are affiliate links. We may earn a commission at no extra cost to you.
Nearby Campground
MANTI COMMUNITY
1.2 miles away · 12 sites
Overview Manti Community Campground is just 7 miles east of Manti, Utah next to Yearns Reservoir at an elevation of 7,400 feet. Visitors enjoy fishing, canoeing and exploring local trails. Accessible by dirt road, no high clearance needed. Recreation Canoeing and fishing for rainbow and cutthroat trout are popular activities on the small but scenic man-made reservoir. A short, easy trail traverses around Yearns Reservoir with fishing access points on the north, west, and south sides of the lake.
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Looking for a soak after your hike? Explore more hot springs near Milky Falls, Utah on SoakingSprings.
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Nearby Attractions
Nearby attractions may include other natural landmarks or hiking trails in the surrounding Utah area. Research local guides for more information.
Wildlife
The area may be home to typical Utah wildlife, including deer, birds, and small mammals. Be cautious of potential encounters with snakes or other wildlife.
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