Ken's Lake and Faux Falls Trail
Ken's Lake and Faux Falls Trail
3.2
(7)
92
hikers
03:15
11.9km
200m
Hiking
The Ken's Lake and Faux Falls Trail offers a refreshing change of scenery near Moab, blending classic red rock desert with surprising pockets of lush greenery. This moderate 7.4-mile (11.9 km) hike, with 644 feet (196 metres) of elevation gain, takes about 3 hours and 14 minutes to complete. You'll traverse varied terrain, from dirt paths overlooking Ken's Lake and the La Sal Mountains to rockier sections leading to the unique Faux Falls, where cottonwood trees and wildflowers thrive.
When planning your visit, consider that the trail is accessible year-round, but spring is the best time to go. During spring, the man-made Faux Falls are at their most impressive with strong water flow, and the desert comes alive with wildflowers. The Ken's Lake and Faux Falls Trail terrain and difficulty can vary, with options ranging from easy sections suitable for families to more challenging routes involving light scrambling, catering to different hiking preferences.
What makes this trail truly stand out is the man-made Faux Falls, created by diverting water from Mill Creek to fill Ken's Lake, providing a striking contrast to the arid Moab landscape. This route offers a less crowded experience compared to other popular trails in the area, making it an excellent choice for those seeking tranquility. You can even cool off in the two to three-foot deep pool at the base of the falls on a warm day.
Last updated: June 9, 2026
Waypoints
Way Types & Surfaces
Way Types
4.54 km
4.00 km
1.92 km
1.47 km
Surfaces
6.62 km
2.33 km
1.64 km
1.19 km
155 m
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Elevation
Highest point (1,610 m)
Lowest point (1,520 m)
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Weather
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Wednesday 29 July
34°C
23°C
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This route was planned by komoot.
Parking is available at the Ken's Lake Recreation Site. The trailhead is easily accessible from there, and new signage helps guide hikers.
Yes, many sections of the trail are considered dog-friendly. The shallow pool at the base of Faux Falls is also a pleasant spot for dogs to cool off.
The trail can be enjoyed year-round. Faux Falls flows best in the spring when water is released to fill Ken's Lake, and the desert often bursts with wildflowers. The late afternoon sun casts beautiful golden hues over the lake and desert.
The provided information does not indicate any specific permits or entrance fees required for hiking the Ken's Lake and Faux Falls Trail within the Ken's Lake Recreation Site.
There are several options:
The trail generally starts on a dirt path with scattered rocks. Early in the season, it can be muddy due to snowmelt, but later it becomes a firm, sandy track. Closer to the falls, the path gets rockier. The Upper Faux Falls Trail involves more rocky sections and slickrock scrambling.
Faux Falls is unique because it is man-made. Water is diverted from Mill Creek through a tunnel to fill Ken's Lake, creating this scenic cascade. It flows best in the spring when water is released to fill the lake, often accompanied by vibrant wildflowers.
Yes, the Lower Faux Falls Trail and the Ken's Lake and Faux Falls Loop are considered family-friendly and accessible for children. The shallow pool at the base of Faux Falls is also a great spot for kids to cool off.
Hikers can enjoy 360-degree views of the shimmering Ken's Lake, dramatic red rock cliffs, and the distant La Sal Mountains. The area around the falls features vibrant green foliage and the refreshing mist from the water. You'll also see cottonwoods and desert flowers near the creek.
Yes, the pool at the base of Faux Falls is shallow, typically around two to three feet deep, making it a pleasant and safe spot for families and dogs to cool off.
Yes, Faux Falls is often considered a hidden gem. It offers a less crowded hiking experience compared to some of Moab's more famous trails, while still providing stunning desert scenery and a rewarding waterfall.
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