Warning Issued for Popular Utah Swimming Spot

Authorities are cautioning potential visitors to a well-known tourist destination in Utah after a video surfaced on social media showing boulders falling near two swimmers.

The U.S. Department of the Interior Bureau of Land Management (BLM) shared a video on Instagram that captures two girls swimming in Lower Calf Creek, located within the Grand Staircase-Escalante National Monument. In the footage, they can be seen in water that’s about waist deep before they dive underwater, just before rocks tumble down from the cliff.

“We’re all looking for ways to cool down this weekend,” BLM noted. “If you opt for a six-mile hike, be aware that you enter at your own risk. Falling rocks could cause serious injuries.” Thankfully, no injuries were reported.

“We handle situations like this pretty well,” said Administrative Lt. Alan Alldredge, mentioning the increase in visitors to Kane County over the past few years, especially post-COVID.

He urged visitors to be mindful of the challenging terrain, which includes rough, dirt paths that can be hazardous. With the potential for extreme heat in the forecast, checking the weather and preparing accordingly is essential.

“It could be 100 degrees, but with the high humidity, it might feel like 120 or 130,” Alldredge explained.

Alldredge also noted that hiking areas have been particularly busy this summer. The most frequented site is referred to as “Waves,” a secluded sandstone formation near Kanab.

“For us, it’s about a four-and-a-half-hour drive just to reach popular spots, which can be a bit tricky,” he remarked.

To ensure a safer experience, he recommended that travelers check online reviews and experiences from others. Additionally, if rain is in the forecast, it’s wise to exit the slot canyon and bring extra water along.