Toquerville Falls 4x4 Jeep Tour — Swim the Upper Falls & Off-Road the Red Desert
Swap red rock dust for a spring-fed oasis on a 2.5–3 hour 4x4 tour to Upper Toquerville Falls. Wind through sandy washes and rocky ledges, then cool off beneath a double-tiered waterfall that's one of Southern Utah's best-kept secrets.
The Experience
Before You Go
Go early or late
Start in the morning or late afternoon to avoid heat and get the best light for photos.
Bring swim essentials
Pack swimwear, a quick-dry towel, and biodegradable sunscreen for pool time—no soaps in the water.
Wear sturdy shoes
Closed-toe shoes with good grip are useful for short scrambles over rock and entering the pools.
Watch vehicle limits
Upgrades like Rattlesnake Gulch are technical—only attempt if you're an experienced off-road driver or with a specialized operator.
Local Knowledge
Hidden Gems
- •A shallow upstream pool framed by scalloped sandstone benches—great for quiet reflection and photos
- •Small petroglyph panels and faint wagon ruts along some backroad pullouts—look for guide-marked stops
Wildlife
- •Desert bighorn sheep
- •Common collared lizard
Conservation Note
This desert oasis is ecologically fragile—avoid introducing soaps to pools, pack out trash, and use reef-safe sunscreen to protect aquatic life.
The falls lie where natural springs emerge from Navajo sandstone; Paiute groups and later Mormon settlers used these water sources, leaving small archaeological and homestead traces.
Photographer's Notes
- • Main plunge pool (ground level, close to water)
- • Sandstone ledge above the lower tier for wide frames
- • Jeep overlook pullouts on the approach for context shots
What to Bring
Closed-toe trail shoesEssential
Protects feet on rocky approaches and offers traction on wet stone.
Swimwear & quick-dry towelEssential
You’ll likely want to swim or wade in the natural pools at the falls.
Reef-safe sunscreen & hatEssential
Strong sun exposure on open desert sections—protect skin and eyes.
Waterproof phone or camera
Capture waterfalls and desert vistas without risking your gear.
Common Questions
How long is the tour?
The shared Upper Toquerville Falls tour runs about 2.5–3 hours from the meeting point, including drive, short hikes, and swim time.
Can I swim at the falls?
Yes—guides allow swim time in the spring-fed pools; please use biodegradable sunscreen and avoid soaps or detergents.
Is this family-friendly?
Generally yes—suitable for most ages, but infants must sit on laps and the tour is not recommended for pregnant guests or people with significant back or heart problems.
Where do we meet?
Meet at the operator’s lower parking lot where Jeeps with the 'Off the Grid 4x4 Tours' logo are staged; ID and a signed waiver matching the booking name are required.
What if weather is bad?
Tours may be canceled for rain or flash-flood risk; the operator offers full refunds if canceled at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure.
Can I upgrade to a more technical route?
Yes—the Toquerville Falls Loop and Rattlesnake Gulch are available as upgrades; Rattlesnake Gulch is a technical crawl recommended only for experienced drivers.
Book This Experience
Check AvailabilityDuration
2.5–3 hours
Location
Toquerville, Utah
Difficulty
moderate
Fitness Level
Suitable for average fitness; riders should be able to manage short, easy scrambles and handle vehicle jolts.
Ready to Explore Toquerville?
Book your guided walking tour and discover the hidden stories of this historic mountain city.
Check Availability & Book Now