Cheyava Falls

Clear Creek Trail from Phantom Ranch to Clear Creek, then up the creek bed to the falls

NPS lists 0.3 mile from Phantom Ranch to the Clear Creek Trail junction, 8.4 miles from the junction to Clear Creek, and 5.0 miles from Clear Creek to Cheyava Falls. Adding these gives about 13.7 miles one way from Phantom Ranch (derived). The distance from the rim to Phantom Ranch is not in this source.

Exposed trail with no reliable water for about nine miles from Phantom Ranch, then a creek-bed route with no trail and many crossings. NPS warns of flash flooding at Clear Creek.

Where to start

This NPS handout starts at the Phantom Ranch area and does not give rim trailhead or parking details. Check the park for the rim trailhead you plan to use.

Timing & water

NPS says Cheyava Falls only flows in the spring after winters with high snow fall, and in drier years it does not flow at all. Summer is typically too hot for the trail.

Before you go

Overnight camping at Clear Creek requires an NPS backcountry permit. NPS says Clear Creek permits can be difficult to obtain in spring and fall.