Rifle Falls Hike Colorado
Rifle Falls is a 70 foot, triple waterfall in Rifle Falls State Park. It's just .1 mile hike to the base of the falls along a paved, handicap accessible trail. The caves hidden along the waterfall beckon those looking for more adventure. Explore the full Rifle Falls hike profile below for trail map, driving directions, and more of the details you need for this short waterfall Hike in northwestern Colorado.
Trail Snapshot: Rifle Falls Colorado
| Hike Distance | 0.2 to 1.5 mile Round Trip |
|---|---|
| Difficulty | Easy |
| Duration | 30 minutes |
| Trail Type | Out & Back or Loop |
| Starting Elevation | 6500′ |
| Elevation Gain | Negligible to +100' |
| Seasons | Year Round |
| Dogs | Allowed On Leash |
| Hike Trail Map | Click for a Map of Rifle Falls State Park, Colorado |
| Denver Drive Time | 3 hr 30 min |
| Driving Directions to Rifle Falls | Click for Google Map |
| Town Nearest Hike | Rifle, Colorado |
| Beauty | Waterfall, Caves, Rifle Creek |
| Activities | Hiking, great picnic facilities, caves, fishing, photography |
| Fee | See the Rifle Falls Fees Page |
Parking & Trailhead Information for Rifle Falls, Colorado
Because Rifle Falls State Park is one of the more popular State parks to visit in Colorado, it often has very limited parking. We highly recommend that you arrive when the park opens at 7AM. If you do not have a Colorado State Parks pass, then you will need to pay the access fee for the park at the kiosk. If the lot is full, visitors will be turned away. As with almost all trailheads in Colorado, Monday through Thursday are the best days for avoiding traffic. However, in the busy summer season, when the weather is amazing and vacation season is in full swing, the park is often at capacity.
The Hike: Rifle Falls
The base of the waterfall can be accessed via 1/10th mile hike on a paved trail that is considered ADA accessible. The falls launch 70 feet over a limestone cliffside, reminiscent of Hanging Lake, near Glenwood Springs. It is a segmented waterfall, breaking into three distinct waterfalls. The spray and mist from the falls makes the surrounding scenery unique. Moss covered rock, flowers, brush, trees, and the roar of the falls make this a real oasis in the oft dry landscape of western Colorado.
The Coyote Trail crosses the creek and leads hikers on a 1.5 mile loop that includes both caves and the area above the waterfall. Following the loop counter-clockwise, the caves will soon become visible on the left-hand side of the trail. After the caves, the loop continues back towards the top of the waterfall area and crosses the creek before making its way back to the shaded picnic grove and parking area.
Rifle Falls in Winter
Rifle Falls State Park is open all year round. It's Colorado, so expect snow and ice on the trail in the late Autumn through late Spring.
Camping at Rifle Falls
There are 20 camping spots at Rifle Falls State Park. Thirteen are drive-in camping and seven are walk-in sites. All are along Rifle Creek. A number of the sites are reservable from May 1 to Oct. 31, and others are available on a first-come basis. Weekdays have better availability than weekends, and the campsites are in less demand November through April. Because Rifle Falls State Park is open year-round, camping is available year-round as well. Pets are allowed, but must be kept on a 6' leash.
Weddings at Rifle Falls
The Waterfall is also a popular place to tie the knot. The Mountain Mist Amphitheater is reservable and has a capacity of 50. All arrangements must be made ahead of time with the parks office (970) 625-1607. All vehicles must pay the fee or have a Colorado State Parks Pass. Because of the limited parking, those coming for a wedding should plan to car pool or be dropped off at the park.
Tips & Resources for Hiking at Rifle Falls State Park
- Go Early: Rifle Falls State Park is small and very popular. The park opens at 7AM, and we recommend that you arrive early for parking.
- Bring a Flashlight or Headlamp: If you plan to explore the caves, you'll need a light. Bring a flashlight or headlamp to light up some of the chambers you'll discover in the caves.
- Trail Map for Rifle Falls State Park: Trail Map Link
- Packing List: Always pack the 10 Essentials. Download our Hiking Guide to get list and dayhiking packing checklist.
- Colorado Road Conditions: Colorado Road Conditions
- After the Hike: Oliver Ridleys Coffee
- Photo: We would like to express our gratitude to Jimmy Thomas for sharing such an amazing photograph of this hike.
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Fish Creek Falls Near Steamboat Colorado
A 284 foot waterfall! Need we say more. Fish Creek Falls is a 1/4 mile hike located just outside Steamboat Springs, Colorado--about 3.5 hours from Denver. The Fish Creek Falls Overlook trail is handicap accessible, and a second trail takes hikers down to the base of the falls. Explore the full Fish Creek Falls hike profile below for trail map, driving directions, and many the details you need to enjoy this adventure near Steamboat, Colorado.
Trail Snapshot: Fish Creek Falls in Steamboat Springs
| Hike Distance | 1/2 mile Round Trip (both options) |
|---|---|
| Difficulty | Easy |
| Duration | Approx 30 min Round Trip |
| Trail Type | Out and Back |
| Starting Elevation | 7500′ |
| Elevation Gain | negligible |
| Seasons | Year Round |
| Dogs | Allowed On Leash |
| Denver Drive Time | 3 hrs |
| Driving Directions to Fish Creek Falls, Steamboat Springs | Click for Google Map |
| Town Nearest Hike | Steamboat Springs, Colorado |
| Beauty | Waterfalls, Creek |
| Activities | Hiking, great picnic facilities, ice climbing, photography |
| Hours | 6AM to 10AM |
| Fee | $5 Day Use Fee - Cash or Check |
Parking & Trailhead Information for Fish Creek Falls
The trailhead for the waterfall is about three miles outside of the town of Steamboat Springs, Colorado. Stop at the pay station to purchase the day use fee. There are two parking areas: one will be on your left driving in, and the larger lot--which is closer to the trailhead--at the end of the road.
The Hike: Fish Creek Falls
Fish Creek Falls is one of the most accessible waterfalls in Colorado, perfect for families with small children who are not yet able to hike longer distances. It's also wheelchair accessible via the Falls Overlook Trail. There are three different options detailed below.
-
Fish Creek Falls Overlook Hike:
This 1/4 mile (one-way) hike leads to the Falls overlook. The trail is paved and handicap accessible. The most direct access to the overlook trail is from the northeast end of the larger parking area, near the interpretive signs and the small shelter.
-
Fish Creek Falls Hike:
This second option is also a 1/4 mile (one-way) and leads to the bridge at the base of the falls. The trail is gravel and dirt--not paved like the overlook trail. This trail begins at the far east end of the same parking lot.
-
1 Mile Loop:
Both the overlook and the Fish Creek Falls hikes can be combined to form a kind of 1 mile loop by hiking first to the overlook, then returning through the shaded picnic area to the Fish Creek trail below. After hiking to the bridge, return the way you came.
Tips & Resources for Hiking Fish Creek Falls
- Bring a Picnic Lunch: The picnic area at Fish Creek Falls is one of the best in the State of Colorado. It's extensive and the trees provide a ton of shade.
- Springtime is Best: The waterfall roars with the late Spring meltwater.
- In Winter: The trails to the falls are open year round. You may need snowshoes when the snow gets thick.
- Explore More: There is another waterfall. A short, but demanding, 2.2 mile (one-way) hike to Upper Fish Creek falls follows the trail beyond the bridge and another 1,100+ feet above the trailhead.
- Packing List: Always pack the 10 Essentials. Download our Hiking Guide to get list and dayhiking packing checklist.
- Colorado Road Conditions: Colorado Road Conditions
- After the Hike: Creekside Cafe in Steamboat Springs
- Photo: We would like to express our gratitude to Greg Hamilton for sharing the photograph of this hike.
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Arch Rocks Hike in Rocky Mountain National Park
Along the way to The Pool or Fern Falls, you'll run into this towering waypoint of nature in Rocky Mountain National Park, the Arch Rocks. These are boulders as huge as cottages where the trail passes through. The trail is quite flat and hikers get to enjoy the sound of the running waters of the Big Thompson River. Explore the full Arch Rocks hike profile below for trail map, driving directions, and more of the details and tips you need to enjoy this adventure in Rocky Mountain National Park.
Note: Rocky Mountain National Park now requires timed entry permits from May 27th through October 10th. See the RMNP permits page for more information.
Trail Snapshot: Arch Rocks in Rocky Mountain National Park
| Hike Distance | 3 miles Round Trip (from Fern Lake TH) |
|---|---|
| Difficulty | Easy |
| Duration | Approx 1.5 to 2hr Round Trip |
| Trail Type | Out and Back |
| Starting Elevation | 8155′ |
| Elevation Gain | +245′ |
| Seasons | Spring through Fall |
| Dogs | Dogs Prohibited in RMNP |
| Hike Trail Map | Click for a Trail Map |
| Denver Drive Time | 1 hr 40 min |
| Driving Directions to Fern Lake Trailhead | Click for Google Map |
| Driving Directions to Fern Lake Bus Stop Parking | Click for Google Map |
| Driving Directions to Park & Ride Trailhead | Click for Google Map |
| Town Nearest Hike | Estes Park, Colorado |
| Beauty | Sub-alpine lakes, mountain views, river, wildflowers, aspen trees, ponderosa pine, wildlife: Abert's squirrel, elk, deer, moose, duck |
| Activities | Picnicking, hiking trails, snowshoeing |
| Fee | Park Pass Required |
Parking & Trailhead Information for Arch Rocks in RMNP
Parking is more limited in this area of Rocky Mountain National Park, and you'll likely have to park at the Park & Ride then take the shuttle to the Fern Lake Trailhead. You'll find driving directions above to The Fern Lake Trailhead (closest to this hike), the Fern Lake Bus Stop Parking area (very limited parking), and for the Park & Ride lot. See the RMNP Shuttle page for dates and times of service. Avoid parking along Fern Lake road as this damages the road side. If you park or are dropped off at the Fern Lake Bus Station, the hike from the station to the trailhead will add and additional .8 mile, one-way, to your hike.
The Hike: Arch Rocks in RMNP
It's a short destination hike along the Big Thomspson river to Arch Rocks. Arch Rocks was actually my very first destination on my very first hike in Rocky Mountain National Park in 2004. I camped at the backcountry site that is just a bit further up the trail, nestled back in the aspens and boulders that are so characteristic in this valley.
At approx 1.5 mile a huge rock, the size of a house, arches over the trail. In centuries past, this rock sheered off from the towering cliffs above and tumbled down to this spot. It's difficult to get a good photo of Arch Rocks and to really capture it's size. If you can get down-trail, and a bit below it, you'll have a better chance.
If you want to make your hike a bit longer, the next destination along the Fern Lake trail is The Pool--just .2 mile further--where Fern Creek and the Big Thompson River collide.
Tips & Resources for Hiking to Arch Rocks in Rocky Mountain National Park
- TIP: It is advisable to arrive early as parking is limited. One may opt to ride a shuttle that drops you off at the trailhead.
- Bring some food: The rocks near the Big Thompson River can be a great place for picnics.
- Trail Map for Rocky Mountain National Park: Trail Map Link
- Packing List: Always pack the 10 Essentials. Download our Hiking Guide to get list and dayhiking packing checklist.
- Colorado Road Conditions: Colorado Road Conditions
- Photo: We would like to express our gratitude to Charlie Stein for sharing such an amazing photograph of this hike to Arch Rocks in RMNP.
- After the Hike: Baba's Burgers & Gyros
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The Pool in Rocky Mountain National Park
It's a 1.7 mile hike in to The Pool, a series of turbulent cascades and deep green-blue waters formed by the confluence of the Big Thompson River and Fern Creek. This is another popular and easy hike from the Fern Lake trailhead in Rocky Mountain National Park, and a great destination along the Fern Lake Trail. Explore the full hiking trail profile below for trail map, driving directions, and more of the details you need to enjoy this adventure in Rocky Mountain National Park.
Note: Rocky Mountain National Park now requires timed entry permits from May 27th through October 10th. See the RMNP permits page for more information.
Trail Snapshot: The Pool in Rocky Mountain National Park
| Hike Distance | 3.4 miles Round Trip (from Fern Lake TH) |
|---|---|
| Difficulty | Easy |
| Duration | Approx 2 hr Round Trip |
| Trail Type | Out and Back |
| Starting Elevation | 8155' |
| Elevation Gain | Approx. +245' |
| Seasons | Spring through Fall |
| Dogs | Prohibited in RMNP |
| Hike Trail Map | Click for a Map of The Pool RMNP |
| Denver Drive Time | 1 hr 40 min |
| Driving Directions to Fern Lake Trailhead | Click for Google Map |
| Driving Directions to Fern Lake Bus Stop Parking | Click for Google Map |
| Driving Directions to Park & Ride Trailhead | Click for Google Map |
| Town Nearest Hike | Estes Park, Colorado |
| Beauty | Sub-alpine lakes, mountain views, river, wildflowers, aspen trees, ponderosa pine, wildlife: Abert's squirrel, elk, deer, moose, duck, beaver, chipmunk, bear |
| Activities | Picnicking, hiking trails, snowshoeing, fishing |
| Fee | Park Pass Required |
Parking & Trailhead Information for The Pool in RMNP
Parking is more limited in this area of Rocky Mountain National Park, and you'll likely have to park at the Park & Ride then take the shuttle to the Fern Lake Trailhead. You'll find driving directions above to The Fern Lake Trailhead (closest to this hike), the Fern Lake Bus Stop Parking area (very limited parking), and for the Park & Ride lot. See the RMNP Shuttle page for dates and times of service. Avoid parking along Fern Lake road as this damages the road side. If you park or are dropped off at the Fern Lake Bus Station, the hike from the station to the trailhead will add and additional .8 mile, one-way, to your hike.
The Hike: The Pool in RMNP
The hike to The Pool, and other destinations along this initial stretch of the Fern Creek trail--such as Arch Rocks and Windy Gulch Cascades--follows the Big Thompson River as it courses through a rocky, but verdant, valley. There are great places to stop to fish along the banks of the Big Thompson for trout.
At approx 1.5 mile, you'll encounter a huge rock, split in two segments that bridges over the trail. Arch Rock likely broke off the cliff side above and tumbled down into the valley eons ago. It's a remarkable site.
Another .7 miles further, hikers will arrive at The Pool, an unusual set of cascades formed by the confluence of Fern Creek and the Big Thompson River. Here, the waters collide and swirl, and have carved out a deep pool of chaotic--but beautiful--waters. Don't be fooled by the name, The Pool is not a place to swim. The current is powerful and dangerous; so, stay out of the water and be sure to exercise caution along the slick rock edges of the Pool.
At the Pool, there is a footbridge that crosses the river. It's a great spot to stop and take in the sights.
Tips & Resources for Hiking to The Pool in Rocky Mountain National Park
- TIP: It is advisable to arrive early as parking is limited. Hikers may opt to ride a shuttle that drops you off at the trailhead.
- Bring A Picnic Lunch: The banks along the Big Thompson River can be a great place for picnics.
- Trail Map for Bear Lake Corridor: Trail Map Link
- Packing List: Always pack the 10 Essentials. Download our Hiking Guide to get list and dayhiking packing checklist.
- Colorado Road Conditions: Colorado Road Conditions
- Photo: We would like to express our gratitude to Charlie Stein for sharing such an amazing photograph of this hike to the Pool in Rocky Mountain National Park.
- After the Hike: Baba's Burgers & Gyros
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Bierstadt Lake in Rocky Mountain National Park
Bierstadt Lake is a short destination hike in Rocky Mountain National Park to a sub-alpine lake with great panoramic views. At Bierstadt Lake, the trail forms a 1 mile loop along its shores, making it a perfect leisurely hike with friends. Bierstadt lake can be accessed from several different trailheads with differing terrain and demand. Explore the full Bierstadt Lake hike profile below for trail map, driving directions, and more of the details you need to enjoy this adventure in Rocky Mountain National Park.
Note: Rocky Mountain National Park now requires timed entry permits from May 27th through October 10th. See the RMNP permits page for more information.
Trail Snapshot: Bierstadt Lake in Rocky Mountain National Park
| Hike Distance | 3.2 to 4.8 miles Round Trip (depending on trailhead and adding loop) |
|---|---|
| Difficulty | Easy to Moderate |
| Duration | Approx 2 hrs Round Trip |
| Trail Type | Out and Back or Lollipop Loop |
| Starting Elevation | 8850′ |
| Elevation Gain | +566' from Bierstadt TH, +255' from Bear Lake TH |
| Seasons | Spring through Fall, Winter Snowshoeing |
| Dogs | Dogs Prohibited in RMNP |
| Hike Trail Map | Click for a Trail Map |
| Denver Drive Time | 2 hr |
| Driving Directions to Bierstadt Lake Trailhead | Click for Google Map |
| Driving Directions to the Bear Lake Trailhead | Click for Google Map |
| Driving Directions to Park & Ride Trailhead | Click for Google Map |
| Town Nearest Hike | Estes Park, Colorado |
| Beauty | Sub-alpine lakes, mountain views, wildlife: Abert's squirrel, elk, deer, waterfowl, moose; aspen trees |
| Activities | Picnicking, Hiking Trails, Snowshoeing |
| Fee | Park Pass Required |
Parking & Trailhead Information for Bierstadt Lake Trail
Bierstadt Lake can be accessed from several trailheads in Rocky Mountain National Park. Driving directions to all of these trailheads are available in the Bierstadt Lake trail snapshot above. Review the options below to find the best fit for your hiking plans.
From the Bierstadt Trailhead: Limited parking and the most difficult route because of the elevation gain traversing Bierstadt Moraine. This route is 1.4 miles to the lake with +566' elevation gain.
From Bear Lake Trailhead: Recommended for those looking for a less demanding hike to Bierstadt Lake. This way is 1.6 miles to the lake with about +255' elevation gain.
From the Park & Ride lot in RMNP: There is a trail on the northwestern edge of the parking lot that leads directly to Bierstadt Lake. It is approximately 1.5 miles from the parking lot to Bierstadt Lake and a less demanding route than hiking from the Bierstadt Trailhead.
The Hike: Bierstadt Lake Trail in RMNP
The hike to Bierstadt Lake will be different depending on your starting point. I've hiked the trail starting at the Bierstadt Trailhead. It's demanding. The Bierstadt Moraine will require a lot from your quads. So, if you take this route, be sure to bring some trekking poles.
The route from Bear Lake can be accessed by hiking the paved path from the trailhead to Bear Lake, then taking the first right-hand trail, which is the one that leads to Flattop Mountain. You may be thinking, "Flattop is in the west, and Bierstadt Lake is in the east." You're right, and the trail will soon (after approx. 1/2 mile) split. At this first junction, the right-hand path will take you Northeast into the Mill Creek Basin area.
Down in Mill Creek Basin, a spur trail, to the right, will lead to Bierstadt Lake. If you want to make your hike a bit longer, you can pass this spur trail, and hike further through the basin for about another 1/2 mile until you encounter a 2nd spur trail that leads (to the right/east) over to Lake Bierstadt.
Hikers can pick a spot to rest and enjoy the sites of the lake, or they can continue around the 1 mile loop trail that encircles it. The best views are from the east side, and are worth the extra distance to take in some incredible views of the Rocky Mountains.
Tips & Resources for Hiking to Bierstadt Lake in RMNP
- Trekking Poles: For most hikes in RMNP, especially if you are traveling on unmaintained trails, we recommend using Trekking Poles. They take a lot of weight off the knees and help in navigating uneven terrain.
- TIP: The Bierstadt Lake trailhead has limited parking. You can opt to park at Bear Lake, or the Park & Ride trailhead instead.
- Fishing: Bierstadt Lake is not on the list of fishable lakes in RMNP.
- Trail Map for Bear Lake Corridor Trails: Trail Map Link
- Packing List: Always pack the 10 Essentials. Download our Hiking Guide to get list and dayhiking packing checklist.
- Colorado Road Conditions: Colorado Road Conditions
- Photo: We would like to express our gratitude to Chris for sharing such an amazing photograph of this hike to Bierstadt Lake in RMNP.
- After the Hike: Baba's Burgers & Gyros
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Silver Falls Near Pagosa Springs Colorado
Silver Falls near Pagosa Springs Colorado is an easy hike of less than a quarter mile to a spectacular waterfall. The distance of the drive from Denver requires more than the hike! Explore the full Silver Falls hike profile for driving directions and all the details you need to enjoy this Colorado waterfall trail.
Trail Snapshot: Silver Falls Near Pagosa Springs, Colorado
| Hike Distance | 0.4 mile Round Trip |
|---|---|
| Difficulty | Easy to Moderate |
| Duration | Approx 30 min |
| Trail Type | Out and Back |
| Starting Elevation | 8200′ |
| Elevation Gain | Approx +230′ |
| Seasons | May-September |
| Dogs | Allowed On Leash |
| Denver Drive Time | 5.5 hr |
| Driving Directions to Silver Falls, Pagosa Springs | Click for Google Map |
| Town Nearest Hike | Pagosa Springs, Colorado |
| Beauty | Waterfall |
| Activities | Hiking |
Directions & Trailhead Information for Silver Falls
The parking area for Silver Falls is located about 19 miles from Pagosa Springs along Forest Road 667. Because FR667 is a dirt road, expect washboard and wash areas. The road crosses multiple creeks, and in the late Spring, when the snowmelt is flowing, many of these creeks rise and cover the road. Because of this, it's a good idea to make the drive to the Silver Falls trailhead in a vehicle with higher clearance, such as a truck or SUV. The small parking area is located about 8 miles up 667 on the left-hand side of the road. You'll find an old guard station marking the spot.
The Hike to Silver Falls
The hike up to Silver Falls is short and sweet. It's approximately 1/8th of a mile from the trailhead to the waterfall. The trail starts out easy, then becomes increasingly steep before the emerging from the woods to the spectacular site of Silver Falls. The waterfall plunges first from the orange cliffs above the trail, then tumbles down in a series of dazzling cascades.
Tips & Resources for Hiking Silver Falls, Pagosa Springs, CO
- Visit on a Weekday: This stretch of road is a popular spot for campers and fisherman because of its proximity to the San Juan River. Go on a weekday if you would like to experience solitude and only the sounds of tumbling water.
- Parking: Parking is limited in the small lot. Hikers can also park alongside the road; just be courteous to other drivers and be sure to park in such a way that you don't to get stuck.
- Packing List: Though it's a short hike, you always want to pack the 10 Essentials. Download our Hiking Guide to get list and hiking gear checklist.
- Colorado Road Conditions: Colorado Road Conditions
- Photo: We would like to express our gratitude to Steve Schmickle of Explore the Light Photography for sharing such an amazing photograph of this hike to Silver Falls. I love landscape photography, and Steve's work is my absolute favorite. Check out his gallery and available prints.
- After the Hike: Pagosa Baking Company in Pagosa Springs
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Cornet Falls Near Telluride Colorado
Cornet Falls in Telluride, Colorado, is an 80 foot waterfall and requires a short 1/4 mile hike to experience. The hike begins in town and affords views down into this beautiful Colorado mountain town. Explore the full Cornet Falls hike profile below for trail map, driving directions, and all the details you need to enjoy this hike in Telluride, CO.
Trail Snapshot: Cornet Falls Near Telluride, Colorado
| Hike Distance | 1/2 mile Round Trip |
|---|---|
| Difficulty | Easy |
| Duration | Approx 30 min |
| Trail Type | Out and Back |
| Starting Elevation | 8900′ |
| Elevation Gain | +220′ |
| Seasons | May-September |
| Dogs | Allowed On Leash |
| Hike Trail Map | Click for a Map of Telluride Area Trails |
| Denver Drive Time | 6.5 hrs |
| Driving Directions to Cornet Falls, Telluride | Click for Google Map |
| Town Nearest Hike | Telluride, Colorado |
| Beauty | Waterfalls, Views into Town of Telluride |
| Activities | Hiking |
Parking & Trailhead Information for Cornet Falls
The hike to Cornet Falls begins at the the Jud Weibe Trailhead in Telluride, Colorado. There is no designated parking area for this trailhead, so hikers will need to find acceptable parking along the streets or at public parking in town.
Tips & Resources for Hiking Cornet Falls Colorado
The hike from the Jud Weibe Trailhead to Cornet Falls is only a 1/4 mile. The trail makes its way through a lot of loose and slippery rock before it opens out to a backdrop of vermillion cliffs with 80 foot Cornet Falls jetting over the side. Stay to the right side of the creek for the proper trail leading to the waterfall.
- Wear Good Footwear: Because of the loose rock and slippery surfaces, be sure to wear a durable pair of shoes or boots that will give you good traction for this hike. Need a new pair of boots? Then be sure to check out our boot review of 3 recommended hiking boots.
- Explore More: For a longer adventure, hikers can stay on the Jud Wiebe trail and complete the 3 mile loop that features expansive views into the town of Telluride and ovf Bridal Veil Falls in the distance.
- Trail Map for Telluride Area: Trail Map Link
- Packing List: Always pack the 10 Essentials. Download our Hiking Guide to get list and dayhiking packing checklist.
- Colorado Road Conditions: Colorado Road Conditions
- After the Hike: Between the Covers Bookstore & Espresso Bar
- Photo: We would like to express our gratitude to Dan Wilnai for sharing such an amazing photograph of this hike to Cornet Falls.
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Looking for more waterfalls near Denver? Explore our more than 50 Colorado Waterfall Hikes, our favorite Waterfall Hikes in Rocky Mountain National Park, or 7 Waterfalls within One Hour of Denver.
North Clear Creek Falls in Colorado
North Clear Creek Falls is a 100+ foot waterfall carved into the landscape of southwestern Colorado. This is not so much a hike as a great place to pull off for a picnic and take in views of what become the most famous waterfall in the Rocky Mountain State. Explore the full North Clear Creek Falls profile below for driving directions, and all the details you need to experience this scenic landmark in the far reaches of Colorado.
Trail Snapshot: North Clear Creek Falls Near Lake City, Colorado
| Hike Distance | 0.1 mile Round Trip |
|---|---|
| Difficulty | Easy |
| Duration | Approx 5 min |
| Trail Type | Pull-off Observation Area |
| Starting Elevation | 10,000′ |
| Elevation Gain | +0′ |
| Seasons | June to September |
| Dogs | Allowed On Leash |
| Denver Drive Time | 5 hrs |
| Driving Directions to North Clear Creek Falls | Click for Google Map |
| Town Nearest Hike | Lake City, Colorado |
| Beauty | Waterfall Observation area |
| Activities | picnic facilities, photography |
Its hard to believe that what may be the most beautiful waterfall in Colorado requires no hike to see. The North Clear Creek Falls observation area is accessible via a short drive off of Forest Road 510, part of the Silver Thread Scenic Byway. The USFS does not plow this section during the winter, so it may be inaccessible until Spring. Because of the vertical drop into Willow Canyon, the observation area has been fenced. The area has new toilet and picnic facilities, and is considered handicap accessible.
Tips & Resources for North Clear Creek Falls
- TIP: Because North Clear Creek Falls faces east, some of the best time for photography will be in the early morning moments as the sun is rising.
- TIP: Bring a picnic lunch. The observation area near the falls has new picnic facilities.
- Packing List: Always pack the 10 Essentials. Download our Hiking Guide to get list and dayhiking packing checklist.
- Colorado Road Conditions: Colorado Road Conditions
- After the Hike: Tommyknocker Tavern in Creede
- Photo: We would like to express our gratitude to Scott Ingram for sharing such an amazing photograph of this hike.
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Adams Falls in Rocky Mountain National Park
Adams Falls is a short .6-mile round-trip hike near Grand Lake, Colorado. The waterfall borders Rocky Mountain National Park and its trail begins at the same trailhead for the East Inlet Trail. Explore the full Adams Falls hike profile below for trail map, driving directions, and all the details you need for this short waterfall Hike in Rocky Mountain National Park.
Note: Rocky Mountain National Park now requires timed entry permits from May 27th through October 10th. See the RMNP permits page for more information.
Trail Snapshot: Adams Falls in Rocky Mountain National Park
| Hike Distance | 0.6 mile Round Trip |
|---|---|
| Difficulty | Easy |
| Duration | Approx 30 min Round Trip |
| Trail Type | Out and Back |
| Starting Elevation | 8400' |
| Elevation Gain | +79' |
| Seasons | May-September |
| Dogs | Prohibited in Rocky Mountain National Park |
| Hike Trail Map | Click for a Trail Map |
| Denver Drive Time | 2 hr 15 min |
| Driving Directions to Adams Falls, Colorado | Click for Google Map |
| Town Nearest Hike | Grand Lake, Colorado |
| Beauty | Waterfall, East Inlet Creek |
| Activities | Hiking, picnicking, photography |
Adams Falls is named after Jay E. Adams, an early settler of Grand Lake, Colorado. This hike is on the quieter western side of Rocky Mountain National Park. However, it's still a popular trail, so expect to encounter a lot of hikers. Go on a weekday or early morning for the experience of quiet and solitude. After hiking the .3 mile segment of trail, you'll arrive at Adams Falls. There is an observation area that grants the best and safest views of the falls.
The hike to Adams Falls is perfect for families with young children who may not be able to hike as far. As with all streams and waterfalls, have children exercise caution and stay away from the streambank. Rocks are slippery and the hydraulic force of the creek can be incredibly powerful. About 1/4 mile beyond Adams Falls, there are spectacular views of the East Meadows, making the short distance a worth addition to this easy waterfall hike.
Tips & Resources for Hiking to Adams Falls, Grand Lake, CO
- Wear Good Footwear: The trail has a lot of rocks and roots, so be sure to have shoes or boots that can handle slick surfaces.
- Explore More: Hike about a quarter mile past the falls to where the meadows open up and East Inlet creek meanders through the tall grass. It's an amazing sight.
- Trail Map for Rocky Mountain National Park: Trail Map
- Packing List: Always pack the 10 Essentials. Download our Hiking Guide to get list and dayhiking packing checklist.
- Colorado Road Conditions: Colorado Road Conditions
- After the Hike: The Hub Coffee
- Photo: We would like to express our gratitude to Kimon Berlin for sharing such an amazing photograph of this hike.
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Sprague Lake Loop Hike in Rocky Mountain National Park
At Sprague Lake you'll find an easy loop hike with some stunning views of the mountains that make Rocky Mountain National Park famous. It's a perfect hike in RMNP for young families because the trail is short and has no real elevation gain. With diverse wildlife and a beautiful, peaceful lake, this is one of those spots you should not miss in RMNP. Explore the full Sprague Lake hiking profile below for trail map, driving directions, and all the details you need to enjoy this Colorado adventure in Rocky Mountain National Park.
Trail Snapshot: Sprague Lake Loop in Rocky Mountain National Park
| Hike Distance | 1/2 mile |
|---|---|
| Difficulty | Easy |
| Duration | Approx 30 min |
| Trail Type | Loop |
| Starting Elevation | 8690' at Trailhead |
| Elevation Gain | Approx +20′ |
| Seasons | Spring through Fall, Winter Snowshoeing |
| Dogs | Prohibited in RMNP |
| Hike Trail Map | Click for a Map of Sprague Lake RMNP |
| Denver Drive Time | 2 hr |
| Driving Directions to Sprague Lake Trailhead | Click for Google Map |
| Town Nearest Hike | Estes Park, Colorado |
| Beauty | Sub-alpine lake, mountain views, wildlife: Abert's squirrel, elk, bear, beavers, waterfowl, moose, ducks, Canadian geese |
| Activities | Picnicking, hiking trails, snowshoeing |
| Conditions at Bear Lake Trailhead | Click Here |
| Fee | Park Pass Required |
Sprague Lake Loop Hike
Sprague Lake is a 13-acre lake named after Abner Sprague, an early resident of the Estes Park area who ran a game lodge on the this property which is now part of Rocky Mountain National Park. To access the 1/2 mile loop hike around Sprague Lake, cross the bridge near the parking area. Be sure to pause at the bridge to look for trout. We've spotted an enormous brown trout motoring in these waters near the bridge. It's a regular spawning area in the autumn, so this little segment of water can become quite crowded with fish.
After the bridge, the trail can be hiked to either the left or the right around the perimeter of Sprague Lake. Keep your eyes peeled for Beaver and Moose, both residents of the area. You will be more likely to spot wildlife in the early morning hours.
A Beaver at Sprague Lake RMNP
In the early spring, the trail will likely still be under snow. However, this is such a popular area that it should be easy to spot the trail left by others. As you make your way to the northeastern rim of Sprague Lake, you'll gain views of the continental divide, including Hallett Peak. This is a perfect spot to set up your camera for an iconic photo of RMNP.
In the Fall, this is one of the better spots in Rocky Mountain National Park to view the aspen trees changing on the distant mountains.
Tips & Resources for Hiking to Sprague Lake :
- TIP: Hiking shoes are recommended if you hike during early spring or late winter as you might need to pass through snow on the trail.
- TIP: If you get out early on a spring morning, you might be lucky enough to spot a moose or more.
- Rocky Mountain National Park Trail Conditions: Click for RMNP Trail Conditions
- Trail Map for Bear Lake Corridor: Trail Map Link
- Colorado Road Conditions: Colorado Road Conditions
- After the Hike: Poppy's Pizza
- Photo: We would like to express our gratitude to Tim Stacks for sharing such a beautiful photograph of this hike at Sprague Lake.
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