Milky Falls
By Armen Suny · Last verified Mar 2026
Photo Credits (1)
Difficulty
Moderate
Trail Length
2.4 miles
Trail Type
Out And Back
Elevation Gain
350 ft
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
The Approach
The moderate 2.4-mile out-and-back trail gains 350 feet of elevation on the way to the falls.
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
The trail is not wheelchair accessible. Uneven terrain and elevation changes require steady footing.
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
24 ft³/s
Current discharge — how much water is flowing
Much lower than usual for this time of year
Based on 57 years of record
3.33 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
Weather Forecast
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
8422 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.
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With 2.4 miles and 350 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.
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
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
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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 Manti, 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.
Cities near Milky Falls
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