23 Best Waterfalls in Colorado

Colorado is a beautiful state in the western part of the United States. Its capital is Denver. 

Colorado’s nickname is ‘the Centennial State’ due to its birth as a state was in the same year the United States turned 100 years old. This state is among the mountain states. However, only half of its area is situated in the Rocky Mountains.

Colorado is undoubtedly a wonderful family destination. It is also perfect for honeymoons, reunions, vacations, and so much more.

There are opportunities to engage in activities like horseback riding, hiking, craft beer tasting, trail drives, and more.

The state is also renowned for its waterfalls, which include Seven Falls, Bridal Veil, Ouzel Falls, and more.

Let’s explore the best waterfalls in Colorado.

Best Waterfalls in Colorado

1. Bridal Veil Falls

Bridal Veil Falls, home to a waterfall of 365 feet, is located at the extreme of the Box Canyon, which overlooks Telluride, Colorado. It is one of the top waterfalls in Colorado.

This place can be visited through a steep, although short, hike of 1.8-mile gaining an elevation of 1,200 feet on rocky terrain.

Bridal Veil Falls is a spectacular location where you get to see Colorado’s highest free-falling waterfall. This is a perfect place for adventurers, from bikers to hikers, climbers, and sightseers; everyone is guaranteed a great time.

Right at the top of the falls, you will find a privately operated power plant, which is significant to the history of the region. Aside from being a gorgeous mountain, Bridal Veil Falls is known for its festivals and awesome skiing.

This place is soothing to lovers of nature who would like to explore the wilderness encompassing the region and create wonderful memories. It attracts people from different parts of the world.

2. South Mineral Creek Falls

South Mineral Creek Falls is located in the southwestern end of Colorado, close to Silverton and Durango. It is where you have the opportunity to watch water tumbling from a height of over 20 feet into a bright turquoise blue pole and a narrow gauge.

This nice waterfall is characterized by two tiers, each rising to about 40-50ft, providing a pleasant-looking plunge pool. You can access the tiers, which are good for swimming and wading.

You also get to go on a hike from the campground of South Mineral Creek. This is the best place for you whenever you wish to go on an amazing adventure with your loved ones.

3. Seven Falls

Seven Falls is nestled just on the outskirts of Colorado Springs. It is rated as one of the best waterfalls in Colorado for tourists. It is nothing less than amazing.

The water tumbles from about 181 feet into a canyon with seven segments, which is the major reason behind its name; you really need to check it out.

This is one of the most easily accessible natural destinations where you can get to the top of the mountain using an elevator.

Seven Falls has always been a vibrant destination in the Pikes Peak area, from 1883 when the early visitors were told to pay 10 cents to enter the park.

Seven Falls is significant to the heritage of the Country as a whole. It is currently known as one of the most intriguing natural attractions in the state.

Address: 1045 Lower Gold Camp Rd, Colorado Springs, CO 80905, United States

4. Ouzel Falls

Ouzel Falls is nestled close to the entrance of Estes Park, right in Rocky Mountain National Park, making it one of the most visited waterfalls in Colorado.

This fall offers one of the most lush waterfall hikes in the area, with an opportunity to enjoy the greenery environment and a small number of cascades and falls, which would excite you about getting to the major location.

You get to enjoy a hike of 2.7 miles before getting to Ouzel Falls, which only extends for about 40 feet. However, it is a beautiful fall in a dark rock wall.

There is a drop straight into a pool that contains fallen trees and boulders. While reaching Ouzel Falls, you will get to Lower Copeland Falls first along the way.

Ouzel Falls offers a fantastic hike to both learners and expert hikers, starting from the trailhead of Wild Basin, located at the southeastern end of the national park.

5. Fish Creek Falls

Fish Creek Falls has an elevation of two hundred and eighty feet beside Steamboat Springs inside Yampa Valley. It is easy to access, regardless of your athletic abilities or age.

Fish Creek Falls features a well-paved trail of half a mile running through the bottom of the falls. It is also convenient for strollers and wheelchairs.

The attraction is open throughout the year, but you will certainly fall in love with the sight when you visit during spring. During this period, the snowmelt peaks, along with the massive increase in water volume.

If you wish for an awesome hike, you can explore the 2.5-mile trail going past the bottom to the upper falls of Fish Creek. The trail has an elevation of 1,600 feet, winding down the canyon.

Fish Creek Falls’ route is utilized by hikers in the summer, and it is a beautiful trail to go snowshoeing in winter. When reaching the trail, you will go by two gorgeous waterfalls, including the Upper and Lower Fish Creek Falls.

6. Box Canyon Falls

Box Canyon Falls, known as one of the most spectacular waterfalls in Colorado, is located in Ouray, a beautiful mountain that draws numerous persons from different parts of the country.

Box Canyon Falls has a whooping elevation of 280 feet, with water tumbling down, producing a large roar. There is a staircase, which makes it easy to access the falls from different angles.

You will also find a suspension bridge and a brief hiking trail, which are available depending on where you want to access the falls. There is a small visitor center where you could stop by and spend some time before continuing your hiking.

A lower trail offers a hike of 500 feet, going by a walkway and then through a suspension bridge, taking you into the deeper part of the falls.

You will certainly enjoy the natural sound of water gushing into a slim quartzite gorge with huge force. Box Canyon Falls reaches the peak of Canyon Creek and then unites with the Uncompahgre River close to Ouray.

7. Continental Falls

Your list of the best waterfalls in Colorado wouldn’t be complete without Upper Continental Falls. It offers a memorable hike going past an old mining site and Alpine lakes.

Upper Continental Falls goes through cracks into the mountains’ granite ends close to Breckenridge, Colorado. At the sight of this attraction, you will be captivated and amazed.

It would be best if you didn’t miss the hike on a moderate trail of 2.5 miles heading to the waterfall base. Although the elevation of 1,000 feet demands a level of energy, it is worth it.

Along the way, you will find the gorgeous mountain lakes plus the ancient mining site with trails decorated with nice shining orange and golden leaves.

The beautiful sights you enjoy along the way are everything to die for, so make sure you truly explore Continental Falls and check out their websites for more information.

8. Zapata Falls

During the hot summer, you can visit Zapata Falls to cool down and regain some lost energy. The falls are located in the national preserve and park of Great Sand Dunes.

Zapata Falls is a hidden treasure in Colorado with an elevation of 25 feet. Its waters pour into a covered rocky crevasse. You will find it just three miles towards the southern part of the park.

Before you reach the falls, you will have to pass through slippery slopes with wet rocks, including the chilled river water. This hike isn’t the kind of hike you embark on during cold days.

One thing you shouldn’t miss is the amazing views of the sand dunes from the waterfall trail’s parking lot, which is very suitable for hiking.

Walking to Zapata Falls is an exciting adventure. Visitors have to walk through chilly waters and tumble over slippery rocks. They could equally use the log bridge in order not to get wet.

9. Horsetooth Falls

This unique waterfall with a loop trail leads you to a tiny rock chute. It is located immediately outside Fort Collins, right in Horsetooth Mountain Park.

Horsetooth Falls offers a fantastic family hike, especially for families with little kids, gaining an elevation of 580 feet. You won’t get bored spending time here as a loop is covered.

During the summer, the trail may get hot because of the absence of shade. It is preferable you visit in the morning or on a cool evening.

Likewise, in the months when the weather is cold, the trail remains warm due to the absence of trees. You will find several animals that take here as their home.

10. Rifle Falls

Rifle Falls can be found in Rifle Falls State Park in northwestern Colorado, just close to Rifle Town; this is another awesome tourist center.

The waterfall is very accessible through a 0.1-mile walk going along a paved walkway, which is also handicap-accessible, as well as a 1.5-mile.

You can enjoy a breathtaking landscape view covered with flowers and rocks from the trail, which is not easily seen in this part of the state.

There is an opportunity to tour the limestone caves through various hiking trails with tent and RV camping available for special events like weddings.

Rifle Falls is perfect if you are planning any special event or simply looking for a place to spend time with your loved ones.

11. Hanging Lake

Hanging Lake, another wonderful attraction in Colorado, is a rare gem that speaks of nothing but excellence, beauty, nature, and calmness.

This natural site is found in the middle of Glenwood Canyon, just inside the national forest of the white river, with a rocky, steep, and tough trail of 1.2 miles.

Hanging Lake is a national natural treasure consisting of mind-blowing scenery and calming waterfalls. If you ever need a quiet place to relax, this is your go-to place.

The trail here offers a backcountry hike. You don’t have to be a professional hiker to explore this place, but you will definitely find it tasking if you have any form of physical limitations.

The Lake is a work of art on its own. Despite its location, it has a unique color, gives a clinging mirage to the mountain end, and provides a surreal environment.

12. Forsythe Falls

Forsythe Falls is an amazing family location that is also perfect for couples, colleagues, and friends from different walks of life, where they get to relax and create fresh, beautiful memories.

Forsythe Falls’ hike is perfect for those seeking terrain that is relatively easy to navigate. It is located immediately outside Boulder.

Hiking to the waterfall requires walking a distance of just one mile. Since it is an out-and-back trail, the entire hike is just a little over 2-miles.

This is a great place to hike despite its water pressure, with a number of shades available on hot days. It is best you go in May or June. The water drops from a height of 25 feet right into a bright blue lake.

You can check out the hiking trail profile and go through every detail, plus directions to get to this trailhead without any difficulty.

Address: Forest Service Rd 359, Nederland, CO 80466, United States

13. Spouting Rock

Spouting Rock is an extraordinary waterfall, and true to its name, it actually spouts out from a rock sitting for about two hundred yards over Hanging Lake.

Visitors are required to follow the same trailhead used in getting to Hanging Lake, although it is steep and takes about an hour to reach.

You will see the cutoff point for the spouting rock not too far from the Hanging Lake’s historic turquoise waters immediately after you get to the Lake.

Many people have visited this place without checking out the Spouting Rock; make sure you don’t miss it.

14. Helen Hunt Falls

Helen Hunt Falls is located in a park known as North Cheyenne Canon in Colorado Springs, which can be reached in various forms. Right next to the falls’ visitor center, there’s a short and longer hiking trail, although it is a back-and-out hike.

This 35-foot waterfall cascades into a rock wall, making it not just a magical but extremely breathtaking place to visit in Colorado.

The best time to visit Helen Hunt Falls is in the late spring, when the water tumbles at full volume, a sight everyone would love to experience.

Have you seen a waterfall when it freezes? If not, this is your chance to see one firsthand and speak of how beautiful it looks because you would not be able to describe it.

15. Horsethief Falls

Horsethief Falls is located in an area quite popular for snowshoeing during winter and hiking in summer. It is close to Mueller state park, Cripple Creek, and Divide and is not too far from Colorado Springs.

This is a moderate hike, although as you go on, it becomes somewhat easy since only the first part of the hike is steep.

The trail is highly difficult at the base of the Horsethief Falls if you decide to soar through the tumbling water. It is a perfect spot for a picnic.

The waterfall mixes with two trails for those who want to spend more time journeying and exploring the area.

Address: CO-67, Divide, CO 80814, United States

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16. Booth Falls

This is another attraction that should certainly be on your list with or without your companions, as it offers you everything you need and more.

Booth Falls is every tourist’s dream destination, especially between March and October, as there is an abundance of natural beauty and greatness.

The Falls are renowned as a 60/foot waterfall nestled near Vail, in the Nest Wilderness, with a hike of 3.9 miles along the Booth Creek banks. The hike is quite a tough one uphill, having an elevation of 1,358 feet as a trail of nearly 4 miles.

You should hike during the summer period because of its elevation, as that is when wildflowers bloom, creating a unique landscape.

Make sure you explore the Booth Falls, enjoy the magnificent views, check out the wildlife in the area, and go rock climbing.

Address: Booth Falls Rd, Vail, CO 81657, United States

17. North Clear Creek Falls

North Clear Creek Falls, known as one of the most beautiful waterfalls in Colorado, has a height of over one hundred feet. It is worth your time.

Just a short drive to Forest Road 510 from Silver Thread Scenic Route, there is a turnoff right after Spring Creek, and from there, it is only a five-minute walk to the Falls.

This is a perfect place for picnicking and any special get-together with your loved ones due to its unique location and available picnic facilities.

North Clear Creek Falls features a restroom that is accessible to all. So, during the summer season, you can plan a vacation with your family to explore this place’s beauty.

18. Maxwell Falls

Maxwell Falls is among the closest waterfalls to the waterfall hikes of Denver, which can be reached through different paths. It is just a 45-minute drive from the western side of the town center.

The various hiking trails that can be used to get to the waterfall include an out-and-back trail of 1.6 miles and a round-trip 4-4-mile lollipop loop.

Its terrain has different levels, from moderate to easy, combined with the short hiking trails available, making it the number one choice for many persons.

Maxwell Falls is usually crowded, especially on weekends, so if you seek a more intimate destination, it is more advisable to visit during weekdays.

19. Guffey Falls in Paradise Cove

Of course, your list wouldn’t be complete without a visit to Guffey Falls, one of Colorado’s most beautiful waterfalls.

Guffey Falls is also called Paradise Cove, as it sits on the beaten route from Divide, Florrissant, and Cripple Creek.

If you’re looking for a more serene Guffey Falls, make sure you visit during the week because it is mostly crowded during weekends.

The hike takes tourists through the unique rock features, a pine Forest, and Meadows packed with wildflowers.

Guffey Falls is popular for various activities like bird watching, swimming, rock climbing, hiking, and cliff jumping. It draws about 1,000 tourists in just one day,

20. Bear Creek Falls

Bear Creek Falls is the best place to explore for families visiting Colorado. Its moderately navigable trail extends through an area encompassed with wildflowers during summer.

Bear Creek Falls is an extremely beautiful place, with its trail gaining an elevation of 1,050 feet in totally natural and magnificent surroundings.

The trail is a must-visit for tourists. It is a one-way trail, meaning you have to pass through the same way you came in. You should stop by with your loved ones.

Photographers and sightseers would fall in love with this place. It is best you come with a camera to capture all the beautiful moments.

21. Treasure Falls

Another thing you shouldn’t miss is the Treasure Falls hike. It is a good option to stretch your leg a bit going by Wolf Creek Pass.

Treasure Falls is nestled just fifteen miles towards the eastern part of Pagosa Springs. It is easily spotted from the parking region but needs a short hike.

This waterfall is extremely easy to get to. It is a perfect side trip for everyone going through Highway 160.

It cascades from an elevation of 105 feet down into a Creek connecting to the San Juan River, which starts at the peak of Wolf Creek Pass.

22. Helen Hunt Falls

Helen Hunt Falls is another magnificent waterfall that is accessible through a parking spot located along North Cheyenne Roue.

It is a must-see attraction for everyone, irrespective of their capabilities. Helen Hunt Falls offers numerous options for lovers of waterfall hikes.

The magical views you get to enjoy when you visit the short but relatively challenging trail right after the bridge is one to die for.

Helen Hunt Falls trail features a staircase constructed into the canyon side leading into what seems like another waterfall.

You could spend half of your day here exploring the waterfall when you begin from the Columbine trail in the lower region.

 23. Agnes Vaille Fall

Agnes Vaille Falls is one of the most loved waterfalls in Colorado. It is located not too far from Salina and Buena Vista.

This waterfall hike is found on the southeastern end of Mount Princeton in the Chalk Cliffs, right after one of Colorado’s spring resorts, Mount Princeton Hot Springs.

Here, you’re offered the opportunity to enjoy the beautiful mountain home, including activities like fishing, hiking, fishing, rafting, and so on.

Visitors can hire an RV through which they can explore the hikes in this region of Colorado. The waterfall assures a fabulous family hike, offering great views of the area.

Address: Nathrop, CO 81236, United States

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Plan Your Trip to Colorado

If you’re a nature enthusiast, you should book a flight to Colorado when you next want to go on vacation, especially with your family and friends.

The best time to visit Colorado is from June to September, when the alpine trails experience the absence of low temperatures and snow.

During fall, when leaves experience a change in color, precisely in September and October, these waterfalls are extremely captivating and worth every effort.