A rare natural phenomenon is once again drawing attention in the southwestern United States, as the waterfalls at Gunlock State Park begin to flow. Located about 30 minutes from St. George, the park is known for its reservoir and red rock landscape. However, every few years, the scenery changes dramatically when water starts cascading over the rocks. This event is unpredictable and does not happen often, which makes it even more special for visitors who get to witness it.
The waterfalls, often referred to as Gunlock Falls, have only appeared four times in the past 15 years. Some experts even say it has only happened around nine times in the last 30 years. The reason behind this rare event lies in the reservoir above the falls. When it fills beyond its capacity, water spills over and flows down the red rock formations, creating a temporary waterfall. This combination of green water and bright red stone creates a striking visual that attracts visitors from across the country.
This year, the falls started flowing in late February after months of heavy rainfall. Between October and January, strong rainstorms and snowmelt from nearby mountains caused water levels to rise quickly. In fact, the reservoir went from being less than a quarter full to overflowing in just a few months. Another factor that contributed to this was the lack of vegetation in the area, partly due to a wildfire that had burned nearby land. Without plants to absorb the water, more of it flowed directly into the reservoir, helping to trigger the waterfalls.
Despite a relatively low snowpack this winter, the falls are still flowing, which has surprised many experts. The water supply is mainly coming from earlier rainfall rather than melting snow in the mountains. This unusual situation also means the waterfalls may not last very long. “I don’t think the waterfall is going to last much longer because the limited amount of snow that we have on Pine Valley Mountain is coming off fairly quickly,” Zach Renstrom, general manager of the Washington County Water Conservancy District, told The Salt Lake Tribune. Because of this, many people are rushing to see the falls before they disappear again.
The growing popularity of the waterfalls has already brought large crowds to the park. In early March alone, around 10,000 people visited the falls, compared to about 12,000 visitors during the entire month last year when the waterfalls were not present. Parking areas have filled up quickly, and many visitors have been hiking up rocky slopes to get a better view. The trail to the falls is relatively short, about 1.2 miles (1.9 km) round trip, and is considered easy, taking around 30 minutes to complete.
Even though the hike is not difficult, officials are warning visitors to be careful. The rocks around the waterfalls can become very slippery when wet, which increases the risk of falls and injuries. There have already been reports of visitors slipping, with at least one person needing hospital treatment. Authorities strongly advise against jumping or diving into the water, as the current can change quickly and become dangerous. Wearing proper footwear is also important to avoid accidents on uneven terrain.
Beyond the waterfalls, Gunlock State Park offers a variety of activities throughout the year. The park is centred around the Gunlock Reservoir, where visitors can swim, kayak, fish, or simply relax by the water. The area is known for its warm temperatures, even in winter, making it a year-round destination. Picnic areas, small beaches, and camping options allow visitors to spend more time enjoying the surroundings.
The park is also part of the Greater Zion region, which is famous for its desert landscapes, sand dunes, and canyons. Many travellers combine a visit to Gunlock with trips to nearby attractions, including Zion National Park. This makes it an appealing stop for those exploring southern Utah. The mix of water, red rock scenery, and outdoor activities creates a unique experience that stands out from other destinations in the region.
For those planning a visit, it is recommended to check updates from the park before travelling. The flow of the waterfalls can change throughout the day and may be stronger in the afternoon. Entry to the park requires a day pass, and it is open daily from morning until evening. Because the waterfalls are temporary, timing is key for anyone hoping to see this rare natural event.
As long as the water continues to flow, Gunlock Falls remains a striking and short-lived spectacle. Its rarity is what makes it so appealing, drawing both locals and visitors who want to experience something that may not return for several years.
