An easy 0.8-mile trail to a waterfall fed largely by an 1892 irrigation canal; flows visibly in summer but freezes in winter.
Bryce Canyon National Park entrance fee applies
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Based on this listing's approximate location — see the note on coordinates below.
NPS notes the waterfall (fed largely by the historic Tropic Ditch irrigation canal completed in 1892) flows most visibly in summer and regularly freezes into ice in winter
Mossy Cave Waterfall is a short 0.8-mile hike in Bryce Canyon National Park that leads to a waterfall with a unique history. The waterfall’s primary water source is the Tropic Ditch, an engineering marvel built by hand in 1892 to carry water from the Paunsaugunt Plateau down into Water Canyon to support local irrigation. This means the waterfall is not a natural stream feature but rather a result of human water management—an important distinction if you seek untouched nature.
The waterfall is most impressive in summer when the irrigation system flows at full capacity, creating a visible cascade against the surrounding canyon rock. In winter, the flow often freezes into ice, transforming the waterfall into a solid formation. Spring and fall offer moderate conditions. Because this is a managed water feature, its appearance depends as much on irrigation schedules as on natural precipitation.
Bryce Canyon National Park entrance fees apply. Dogs are not permitted (except service animals). The trail is easy and accessible, making it a good option for families visiting the Bryce area. Plan 30 minutes to an hour for the round-trip hike plus time to explore the falls and surrounding canyon.
June through August for the most visible water flow; avoid winter when the waterfall regularly freezes solid.
Avoid if you want a purely natural waterfall or if visiting in winter (the waterfall typically freezes).
Bryce Canyon National Park entrance fee applies
Via a 0.8-mile round-trip trail rated easy by the managing agency.
No — the managing agency's page states dogs are not permitted here (or on the specific trail/area needed to reach the falls).
We track 3 waterfalls in Southern Utah Canyon Country.
There are 2 other waterfalls we track in Garfield County. All Southern Utah Canyon Country waterfalls →
nps.gov
NPS 'Mossy Cave Trail' and 'Tropic Ditch Wayside' pages (nps.gov), checked Sept 2026. Important accuracy note: this waterfall's flow is substantially supplemented by the Tropic Ditch, a hand-dug 1892 irrigation canal that diverts water from the plateau above into Water Canyon — it is not a purely natural stream. Pets are not allowed on the trail (service animals excepted). No closure found.
Checked September 2026.