Best Waterfalls In Colorado: 12 Local Favorites & Hidden Gems
By Beth|Published April 25, 2024
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Beth
Author
A lifelong Virginia resident, Beth loves exploring different parts of the world and currently resides in Charlottesville. She holds a degree in English Literature and one of her short stories has been featured in the Shenandoah Review. Other interests include hiking, songwriting, and spending time in the mountains.
Colorado is perhaps the state most famous for its striking beauty. From the towering Rocky Mountains to the rushing rivers, evergreen forests, and serene alpine lakes, there’s simply no shortage of natural wonders to appreciate. Today, we’re focused on one kind of natural wonder in particular: waterfalls. And not just any waterfalls, we’re talking beautiful waterfalls. Below you’ll find a guide to the very best waterfalls in Colorado, from the tallest waterfalls in Colorado to the best waterfall hikes in Colorado. If you’re a waterfall chaser, this one’s for you!
Colorado is home to some of the country’s tallest peaks, so it stands to reason that the waterfalls would be equally as epic. And they are. Below you’ll find a list of some of the tallest waterfalls in Colorado.
Need To Know:Bridal Veil Falls, which tumbles a remarkable 365 feet, is the single tallest waterfall in Colorado. It can be found along a country road that leads to the waterfall's base. This road is only navigable with a four-wheel-drive vehicle, but the 1.8-mile pathway also doubles as a great hike.
Need To Know: With an impressive height of 280 feet, Fish Creek Falls can be found just outside of Steamboat Springs. The falls are most impressive in the spring when the snowmelt from the peaks roars down the mountainside. The last time I hiked this trail, I was surprised to find a moose along the path. It was equal parts magical and terrifying. So, as a word of caution, be aware of wildlife!
Need To Know:Silver Cascade Falls stands at 200 feet and offers a scenic hike starting from the smaller Helen Hunt Falls. Hiking up to Silver Cascade Falls requires quite a steep climb, but at the top, you'll be treated to panoramic views of North Cheyenne Canyon.
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Best Waterfall Hikes In Colorado
Colorado hiking is always a good idea, and there’s perhaps nothing more rewarding than hiking to a rushing waterfall. One of my favorite parts about waterfall hikes is that oftentimes — and especially in Colorado — you hear the waterfall before you see it. The following three are considered among the most popular waterfall trails in Colorado, and you’ll quickly understand why. So lace up your hiking boots, pack your tastiest picnic lunch, and prepare to be amazed by the scenery as you embark on this stunning hiking trails!
Need To Know: Bear Creek Falls is a picture-perfect 80-foot waterfall accessible from the Bear Creek Trail. This special trail will lead adventurers through the Uncompahgre National Forest and the 325-acre Bear Creek Preserve, famous for dense aspen groves. The trailhead is located at the end of South Pine Street in downtown Telluride. If you plan on hiking in the winter, you'll need poles, and/or snowshoes to navigate safely.
Need To Know: One of the most popular hikes and waterfalls in Rocky Mountain National Park, Alberta Falls is a fun adventure for all ages! This breathtaking trail begins at the Glacier Gorge Junction trailhead and heads south, following the creek. Making your way along this 1.6-mile hike, you won't miss the sound of the roaring waterfall. If you wish to continue your adventure, this trail also makes its way to some stunning alpine lakes including the Loch (aka Loch Vale), Mills Lake, Lake Haiyaha, and Black Lake. Bonus: spend a little time exploring Estes Park after your hiking adventure!
6. Maxwell Falls
Maxwell Falls Lower Trail, 7627 S Brook Forest Rd, Evergreen, CO 80439, USA
Need To Know: Ready for a partially challenging but very rewarding hike? Maxwell Falls Trail is a 4.1-mile lollipop-style loop, and it's an ideal day hike that's not too far from Denver. The route takes you by not one, not two, but three waterfalls, including Upper Maxwell Falls. You'll actually have two trailheads to choose from -- the lower and upper trailheads are both located on Black Mountain Road near Evergreen. Fortunately, there's a large parking area at the trailhead, but there are no restrooms, water, or trash cans available, so be sure to plan accordingly!
Accessible Waterfalls In Colorado (No Hiking Required)
If you love the idea of enjoying a Colorado waterfall but aren’t looking for a hike, you’ll be happy to hear that there are plenty of accessible waterfalls in Colorado. Check ’em out below!
Need To Know: The crown jewel of its namesake state park, Rifle Falls makes quite an impression. A 0.1-mile out-and-back accessible trail will lead you to this stunning triple waterfall. Each of the falls measures between 70 and 80 feet. Don't forget to snap a picture!
Need To Know: North Clear Creek Falls is located right along the Silver Thread Scenic Byway, making it a wonderfully accessible natural wonder. It probably won't surprise you to learn that it's also one of the state's most photographed falls. Dropping over 100 feet from the plateau above to the canyon below, this waterfall is fed by snowmelt originating in the San Juan Mountain Range near Slumguillion Pass.
Need To Know: You'll find Helen Hunt Falls in North Cheyenne Cañon Park. Ever wonder about the name? This gorgeous waterfall is actually named for a 19th-century writer and proponent of Native American rights. A popular stop near Denver, this waterfall can be viewed right from the road. But you'll want to park at the Helen Hunt Falls Visitor Center for information about the area’s history and geology. There's a short paved trail that will take you to a viewing platform where you can admire this beauty.
Best Waterfalls Near Denver
If you’re planning on scouting out some waterfalls near Denver, we’ve got what you’re looking for. So put some gas in the tank and get ready for some fun, nature-filled Denver day trips!
Need To Know: Less than an hour from Denver and just outside of Boulder, Boulder Falls is a gorgeous cascade that falls over 60 feet. There's a pull-off along Boulder Canyon Drive and then it's just 100 yards to the viewing area. This accessible waterfall is an absolute must, if you don't mind braving some crowds.
Need To Know: Just 1 hour away from Denver, Elk Falls can be found in Staunton State Park, one of the state's newer state parks addition (you'll need a pass to get in!). While the trek is a whopping 14.5 miles, outdoor enthusiasts agree that it's a worthy adventure and by all means an epic hike. To get to the waterfall, you'll start on the Staunton Ranch Trail, then take Bugling Elk trail to continue to Elk Falls Pond. After that, take the Lion’s Back Trail for an absolutely stunning view of Elk Falls.
12. Eldorado Cascades
Walker Ranch Loop Trailhead, Flagstaff Rd, Boulder, CO 80302, USA
Need To Know: While it's not a towering waterfall, the Eldorado Cascades are a hidden gem worth seeking out. The cascade is located along the Walker Ranch Loop but can also be accessed via the Ethel Harrold Trailhead. Despite being just an hour from Denver, hikers agree that this whole area is a secluded treasure.
Well, there you have it! We hope you find your next great outdoor adventure in the West on this list of the very best waterfalls in Colorado. Of course, this list just scratches the surface, as there are plenty of other waterfall hikes in Colorado to explore. (Some bonus options include Treasure Falls, Ouzel Falls, Zapata Falls, Seven Falls, Box Canyon Falls in Ouray, and, of course, Hanging Lake.) No matter which waterfall you visit, don’t forget to take a look at our ultimate hiking essentials packing list before your next adventure.
