Like Corona Arch, Mill Creek Trail is another great dog friendly option in Moab, UT. This hike had the added perk of water! Making it ideal for a hot summer day in the desert with a dog. Winter, my Dad, and I hiked a shorter section of this trail to a waterfall and pond after a long day at Arches National Park. All Trails lists this hike as a moderate 1.8 mile hike with minimal elevation gain.
Mill Creek to the Waterfall
From the trail head parking lot we were quickly met with the first chance to end up in the water. After we passed an artificial dam the trail got narrow – you were either clinging to a rock wall or in the creek at about knee height water. The easier option is to just venture into the water. I chose to cling to the rocks in an attempt to keep my non-water shoes dry. Ultimately, the other creek crossings claimed my dry tennis shoes and I opted to be barefoot. Lesson for this hike – wear your water shoes.
Aside from a few creek crossings, the trail is really easy and follows the creek. There were plenty of spots to stop and let Winter play in the water. The waterfall is in a small alcove with cliffs on either side. You can head to the pool at the base of the waterfall to enjoy some time in the water like we did with Winter. There are also rock scramble trails to the top of the cliffs which give great views which we also explored.
The trail also keeps going past the waterfall for several miles. We opted for a short hike because it was nearly sunset. But this was the perfect cap for the day that Winter got to tag along to.
Before you go
Access to the trail is at the back of a neighborhood, but there is a large designated parking lot. Make sure to park where you are allowed – there is plenty of signage. Otherwise the trail is easy to follow and a great break from the heat!
A lot of people wander up the creek in this area to enjoy a day by the water at the wider spots in the creek. You wont be the only one on this hike by a long shot. So if you are in search of a secluded hike this is not it. We also saw several trail runners on the trail as well.
You will definitely want to wear water shoes with all the crossings you have to make along the creek. For a drier hike, you can enjoy the same creek in downtown Moab with a paved walking path next to it.
Check out more of what we did in Moab! There was Arches National Park, Corona Arch, Canyonlands National Park and Dead Horse Point State Park.
Another great article.. what a nice local hiding spot for Moab. Worth the evening walk out and back
It was a great evening hike after a long day at Arches National Park!