The Thumb Pour Off
By Armen Suny · Last verified Sep 2026
LiDAR & 3D terrain
Photo Credits (3)
Difficulty
Easy
Trail Length
1.5 miles
Trail Type
Out And Back
About The Thumb Pour Off
The Thumb Pour Off is a seasonal waterfall known for sudden, dramatic flows after heavy rains or spring snowmelt, tumbling across the region’s red rock ledges and fins. Often described in connection with the Needles area of Canyonlands, the site itself sits on public BLM land and is managed by the Bureau of Land Management’s Monticello Field Office (designation: PUB). Visit after storms for the most impressive cascades and vivid desert contrasts between rust-colored sandstone and ephemeral water. Access is relatively straightforward for day hikers: the setting feels remote and sculpted by wind and water, with open views of the surrounding desert formations and scattered native flora. Because the feature is seasonal, plan visits around weather forecasts and spring runoff; the BLM-managed terrain invites respectful, low-impact travel and exploration of the area’s dramatic geology.
The Setting
The Thumb Pour Off sits at 5,554 feet within Monticello Field Office, fed by the San Juan River, in the high mountains of Utah.
Trail & Hike Details
Trail Description
The trail to The Thumb Pour Off is a 2.4-mile out-and-back route with approximately 350 feet of elevation gain and is rated moderate. The path is short and relatively flat in sections, with some moderate uphill stretches, and offers clear views of unusual rock formations and desert plants. Trail type: out-and-back; difficulty: moderate. (No USFS trail number or surface/grade/class data provided.)
What to Expect
The Thumb Pour Off is a seasonal waterfall, so its flow depends on recent rainfall or snowmelt. During dry periods, the waterfall may not be active. Visitors can expect a serene desert environment with striking red rock scenery.
Accessibility
The trail is not wheelchair accessible. Uneven terrain and elevation changes require steady footing.
Frequently Asked Questions
🐶 Are Dogs Allowed at The Thumb Pour Off?
❌ Dogs are not allowed
Are There Any Fees or Permits Required?
🤑 Fee: $30.00
🏊 Is There Swimming at The Thumb Pour Off?
❌ Swimming is not allowed
When to Visit
Spring and fall are the best times to visit due to mild temperatures and the potential for seasonal water flow.
Seasonal Access
The best time to visit is Spring and Fall. Access roads and trails may close during winter due to snow. Watch for flash flood warnings during monsoon season (July through September).
Safety Information
Carry plenty of water and be prepared for extreme temperatures. Watch for flash flooding during rainstorms, as the area is prone to sudden water flow.
Current Water Conditions
Based on a USGS gauge 22.8 miles away
7,720 ft³/s
Current discharge — how much water is flowing
Much higher than usual for this time of year
Based on 102 years of record
11.68 ft
Water depth at gauge
68°F
CoolRefreshing for swimming
7-Day Discharge Trend
What does this mean for your visit?
The water is flowing much higher than usual, expect an impressive display. Water temperature is a refreshing 68 degrees F, good for a quick swim. Expect adequate dissolved oxygen levels. Mineral content is moderate.
Water Quality
Dissolved Oxygen
GoodAdequate oxygen levels
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 SAN JUAN RIVER NEAR BLUFF, UT (37 km away).
Today
Roaring
7730 cfs
9/10Tomorrow
Roaring
7747 cfs
9/10Mon
Roaring
8103 cfs
9/10Tue
Roaring
9811 cfs
6/10Wed
Roaring
9836 cfs
6/10Thu
Roaring
9962 cfs
6/10Fri
Roaring
9805 cfs
6/10Best window: Today — roaring flow, sunny (trip score 9/10).
Best time of year: this gauge typically runs highest from early April to early 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 Mexican Hat 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.
Through the falls the surface drops roughly 164 feet over a short, steep run of tiers. Elevation at the pin is about 5,553 feet.
Steep ground runs through the entire stretch: about 381 feet of descent in the 500 feet above the pin and 96 feet in the 500 feet below it. Facing southwest, the falls sit in full sun for most of the day, best photographed early or late.
Drag to compare. The dot marks the waterfall. The frame is about a mile across.
- Ground elevation
- 5,553 feet
- Measured by 1-meter lidar
- Drop at the falls
- About 164 feet
- Change in ground height within ~250 feet of the falls
- Faces
- Southwest
- Sunlit most of the day. Go early or late for softer 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
The Thumb Pour Off is located in the Needles District of Canyonlands National Park. Visitors can access the area by driving to the Needles Visitor Center and following park signage to the trailhead.
Get Directions on Google MapsParking
Parking is available at designated trailheads within the Needles District. Spaces may be limited during peak seasons.
Elevation
5,554 feet above sea level
Coordinates
37.457220° N, -110.020130° W
Land Management
Managed by BLM
Visitor Tips & Gear
Visit after a rainstorm or during spring snowmelt for the best chance to see the waterfall flowing. Bring plenty of water, as the desert environment can be hot and dry. Wear sturdy shoes and sun protection.
This trail sits at 5,554 ft above sea level
Elevated TrailUV radiation is roughly 22% stronger at this elevation than at sea level, and the dry air accelerates dehydration. Extra sun protection and fluids go a long way.
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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.
Where to Stay
Stone Lizard Lodge
Bears Ears Inn
The Retreat at Calf Canyon
Cedar Canyon Condos
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
Natural Bridges Campground
10.7 miles away · 13 sites
Overview The campground includes 13 sites total, each of which can accommodate tent campers or RVs. Due to the size of the campground, there is a length limit of 26 feet combined. The campground is open year-round and is typically busiest from mid-March to mid-June. Visitation also spikes in the late fall, between September and October. The campground tends to fill up quickly during these busy periods. The Natural Bridges National Monument Campground is located approximately 35 miles West of Blan
Book on Recreation.govNearby Hot Springs
Hot springs near The Thumb Pour Off, Utah
Looking for a soak after your hike? Explore more hot springs near The Thumb Pour Off, Utah on SoakingSprings.
Explore Utah springsAdditional Information
Nearby Attractions
Other attractions in the Needles District include Chesler Park, Elephant Hill, and the Joint Trail.
Wildlife
Visitors may encounter desert wildlife such as lizards, birds, and small mammals. Be cautious of snakes and other potentially dangerous animals.
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