Planning a Colorado trip soon? Don’t miss the chance to explore some beautiful waterfalls in Colorado. Starting from Hanging Lake Falls, a perfect place for sightseeing, to Zapata Falls, a hidden waterfall, Colorado’s waterfalls have something for every type of traveler. Many waterfalls of this state are amidst mountains, lakes, forests, and wildlife, which makes each visit memorable with outdoor activities. Whether you love wildlife viewing, photography, or hiking, exploring these waterfalls of Colorado will help you find the natural beauty of this state. However, let’s go through some of the best waterfalls in Colorado, along with travel tips, nearby attractions and the best time to visit.
List Of Waterfalls in Colorado Worth Visiting
According to USGS, there are 81 named waterfalls in Colorado. Some of them are public, like Fish Creek Falls in Steamboat Springs, while some are privately owned with more services, like Seven Falls in Colorado Springs. Colorado waterfalls are a mix of free public lands and paid facilities for the visitors. To have a peak experience, you need to choose which waterfalls you will visit. Here are some of the best waterfalls listed below.
1. Hanging Lake Falls: Colorado’s Unique Turquoise Oasis
Location: White River National Forest, just 10 to 15 miles east of Glenwood Springs, Colorado.
Hanging Lake Falls is one of the best waterfalls in Colorado with amazing sightseeing options. It has one main waterfall, Bridal Veil Falls, with other small cascading streams flowing down. Hanging Lake Falls features Hanging Lake with crystal-clear emerald-green water. It is a popular lake in Colorado with an eye-pleasing sight of the falls and surroundings.
Things To Do In Hanging Lake Falls
A moderate 1.2-mile hike is the main activity you can do at this specific stop. This will not be a tough hike, but not very easy either. At the same place, take a 200-yard walk above the lake to enjoy another fall, Spouting Rock. The speciality of this waterfall is that it flows directly from a cliff face into the lake. Many visitors think this is the main attraction of this destination because it offers amazing photography opportunities from behind the falls.
- Permissions: You will have to get a reservation to access the trail. This can cost about $12 per person from May to October and $10 per person from November to April (charges may vary). Check the Glenwood Lakes Colorado page for booking details. Another thing to note is that swimming, wading, touching the water or bringing dogs is not permitted.
- Facilities: You can find toilets at the trailhead but there are none in the trail or lake area. So it is better to carry drinking water with you. Use the Hanging Lake Rest Area for parking during your allocated time period.
Nearby Attractions To Hanging Lake Falls
- Glenwood Hot Springs Pool (10 miles): You should not miss the world’s largest mineral hot springs pool to get refreshed after hiking the Hanging Lake trail. Explore amazing attractions here such as Yampah Mineral Baths, Sopris Splash Zone and The Therapy Pool. This spot stays open from 8:00 AM to 10:00 PM.
- Grizzly Creek Trail (4 miles): If you are travelling in the summer then definitely visit this popular hike. It will take about 2 to 3 hours to complete this moderate-level hike. You can bring your dogs but always with leashes.
- Rifle Falls State Park (35 miles): To view more stunning waterfalls of Colorado, visit this state park. Apart from the falls you can also explore limestone caves, Rifle Falls Fish Hatchery and do activities such as fishing and hiking.
2. Broadmoor Seven Falls: Famous Private Falls Of Colorado
Location: 1045 Lower Gold Camp Road, Colorado Springs, CO 80905.
Broadmoor Seven Falls is one of the best places to visit in Colorado. Must visit these seven cascades series during your trip to Colorado to have a different type of adventure. First of all, to reach these privately-owned falls, you will need to take a complimentary shuttle bus from the off-park site. This shuttle bus will take you to the park entrance, then walk through a 0.8-mile paved walk to reach the base of the fall.
Things To Do In Broadmoor Seven Falls
Broadmoor Seven Falls is a unique resort-managed waterfall in Colorado Springs. This destination is very easily accessible and ideal for families. Start exploring by challenging yourself with climbing 224 stairways right next to the falls. If stairs are not your thing, you can take the in-mountain elevator to the Eagle’s Nest observation platform which offers amazing views and a family-friendly shop, ‘Rockhounds’. The entire fall and canyon area looks clear from the top.
- Facilities: At the base of the canyon you can find Restaurant 1858 mainly serving wood-fired Colorado cuisine, elk and bison. If you are looking for a stay option then The Broadmoor resort is a great option.
- Accessibility: We recommend you book tickets in advance to avoid any type of hazards. Check the Broadmoor Seven Falls page for pricing, seasoning, and booking updates.
What To See Nearby
- Cheyenne Mountain Zoo (3 miles): This is America’s highest-elevation zoo only a few minutes away from this fall area. You can ride the Mountaineer Sky Ride, enjoy stunning views of Colorado Springs and even hand-feed giraffes.
- North Cheyenne Cañon Park (4 miles): This national park is a famous spot to enjoy hiking, biking, picnicking and wildlife viewing. Here you can explore more waterfalls.
- Garden of the Gods (7 miles): Well-known as the most famous landmark of the state. It offers red sandstone formations and beautiful driving routes. You can enjoy rock climbing or go for a trail walk.
3. Fish Creek Falls: A Popular Waterfall in Steamboat Springs
Location: 34165 Fish Creek Falls Rd, Steamboat Springs, CO 80477.
If you are planning to visit Steamboat Springs anytime soon and you love adventure then Fish Creek Falls is a must-visit. Only 3.3 miles away from the city of Steamboat Springs, this waterfall is a perfect destination for a weekend getaway or adventure trip. Natural photographers and sightseers love to visit this place for its natural beauty.
What To Do In Fish Creek Falls
This 280-foot waterfall is very easy to reach. If you want to avoid hiking, then go to the quick path (wheelchair-accessible) to reach an amazing viewing point. But if you have time to hike to the lower bridge, then you can enjoy the views from the bottom. Visitors with hiking experience can hike towards the Upper Falls or Long Lake. This whole area serves picturesque views throughout the year so do not forget your cameras. You can plan a picnic with your close ones at the Fish Creek Falls Picnic Site. Moreover, visitors love to experience many winter activities here such as ice climbing, snowshoeing and cross-country skiing.
- Opening Hours: From 6 a.m. to 10 p.m all day.
- Facilities: You can use the parking area and it charges about $5 (charges may vary). You will also find toilets and trash bins in the parking area but there is no drinking water facility so carry on your own.
Places To Visit Near Seven Falls
- Old Town Hot Springs (4 miles): Old Town Hot Springs is a perfect place for relaxation after hiking the fall trails. Old Town Hot Springs features natural mineral pools with additional facilities such as waterslides and fitness amenities. These pools are family-friendly, so do not miss visiting this beautiful place with your people.
- Stagecoach State Park (20 miles): Plan a trip to this nature park to enjoy boating, fishing, kayaking, paddleboarding, camping and wildlife viewing. This state park stays open from 8:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m (Monday-Thursday) and 8:00 a.m. – 6:00 p.m (Friday to Sunday) in the summer. But 8.00 am to 4 pm on winter days only.
- Steamboat Ski Resort (5 miles): A prime location for skiing in the state. It offers other outdoor activities such as snowboarding, mountain biking, scenic gondola rides and hiking trails.
4. Zapata Falls: A Hidden Waterfall Adventure
Location: Lake of the Falls RoadMosca, CO 81146
Zapata is a hidden waterfall in Colorado, perfect for adventure and nature lovers. This is not a usual tourist spot where you roam around and take photos, perhaps reaching this fall is a challenge itself. With adventurous hiking, wading and wildlife viewing this place can make your Colorado journey memorial.
What To Do In Zapata Falls
This waterfall near sand dune will give you a beautiful experience. The best part of this place is the short hike to get here. This hike is suitable for all, especially for families, as it is only about half a mile. The exciting part starts after the hike, when you will have to walk through a cool, rocky canyon. Finishing the hike, you will need to wade through Zapata Creek to see the waterfall flowing down inside the cave. The water stays really cold so wear water shoes and layered clothes. But in the winter days the fall freezes into ice.
- Facilities: If you think you can only hike or wade here then you are wrong, as you can go camping while enjoying beautiful views of the Great Sand Dunes. Zapata Falls camping will make you experience the real beauty when daytime visitors leave. Check the Zapata Falls Campground to find more camping details.
- Parking: You will find a parking area at the trailhead for free. Fills up really quickly on weekend afternoons.
Nearby Attractions
- Great Sand Dunes National Park and Preserve (4 miles): Ideal place for sandboarding, sledding, hiking, stargazing, and seasonal creek play. Do not miss the tallest sand dunes in North America in this national park.
- San Luis Valley (5 miles): It is a high-elevation desert in southern Colorado. You can do birdwatching, scenic drives and enjoy beautiful sunset views here.
- Mosca (10 miles): This is one of the most beautiful small towns in Colorado. You should visit this town to have easy access to Great Sand Dunes National Park, amazing dining places and comfortable accommodation.
5. Alberta Falls: Waterfall In Northern Colorado
Location: Rocky Mountain National Park in Estes Park, Colorado (80517)
When you are at the Rocky Mountain National Park remember to visit the Alberta Falls without any difficult hiking. Visiting this waterfall in Rocky Mountain National Park will feel like a bonus. It is a popular fall in this area as it looks incredible, dropping through a 30-foot rock gorge. The Alberta Falls trail is very short and easy, with aspen trees around, which look amazing in the autumn.
Things To Do In Alberta Falls
Alberta Falls can be a perfect place to unwind on the weekends. The main activity here is the short 1.6-mile hike from the Glacier Gorge trailhead. After the hike, lean against a rock to enjoy the beautiful views of the mountains around. Take pictures of the beautiful fall and feel the cool mist on your face. Carry some snacks with you to eat and enjoy them here. You might happen to spot some mule deer, chipmunks and various birds in this area. However if you are a hiker then you can explore further to The Loch, Mills Lake or even Sky Pond.
- Parking: Parking at the Glacier Gorge trailhead is quite limited, which is why park at the Park & Ride lot and use RMNP’s free shuttle bus system to reach the fall.
- Permits: Might need to get a timed entry permit for visiting during the peak seasons, like summer or autumn.
What To See Nearby
- Bear Lake(~1.6 miles): This is a popular alpine lake and a getaway for many hikes such as Dream Lake and Emerald Lake. The short alpine hike to Albert Falls from Bear Lake is popular among beginners.
- Estes Park Town (~9miles): It is the getaway town to the Rocky Mountain National Park. From here you can get all the essential hiking gear and trip essentials. This place serves the best options for food and lodging.
- The Loch(~1.8 miles): It is a beautiful alpine lake with mountains all around. Ideal for photography lovers and weekend getaways.
6. South Clear Creek Falls: Waterfall Near Creede, CO
Location: Halfway between Creede and Lake City, just off Colorado Highway 149 in the Rio Grande National Forest.
South Clear Creek Falls is a hidden gem of Colorado in the Silver Thread Campground. If you are looking for a place to unwind after a long week, then this is the right place. This 25-foot waterfall drops on a wide rock cliff, creating stunning views to enjoy and photograph. The speciality of this place is a 900-foot crowd-free trail and a peaceful creek-side pool.
What To Do Here
This waterfall in Colorado is a perfect spot for people looking for a lesser-known place to spend some time. Start by viewing the cascade closing by trekking down a short and easy trail into the rocky canyon. You can go camping in the Silver Thread Campground and have an amazing picnic time with your loved ones. Moreover do not forget to bring your own fishing gear to enjoy fishing in the waterfall. As this is an off-beaten path, it will offer a peaceful time by yourself.
- Permits: The best part is that there are no parking charges at the trailhead or campground. No annual or daily passes are required either.
- Allowance: Dogs are welcome but always on leashes.
What To See Nearby
- Wheeler Geologic Area(~27 miles): This is a must-visit nearby spot for adventurous hikers. One can also enjoy other activities here such as camping, wildlife viewing and sightseeing. For the best photography opportunities, visit around sunset or sunrise.
- North Clear Creek Falls (~22miles): Along the Silver Thread Scenic Byway you will find this amazing waterfall with hiking, picnicking and wildlife viewing facilities.
- Slumgullion Pass(37miles): It is a high mountain pass that offers amazing outdoor activities to its tourists. You can do boating, fishing, lakeside camping and explore the Alpine Loop.
7. Devil’s Punchbowl Falls, Crested Butte
Location: Off Highway 82 on Independence Pass Road, just past Mile Marker 50.
Devil’s Punchbowl Falls is a beautiful waterfall next to the dangerous Schofield Pass Road. The way from the road to the fall is not easy but it is perfect if you are an adventure seeker. From the waterfall to this road you will find jeep trail access even when the road seems extremely undrivable. Apart from the drive, the hike to the fall is about 2.6miles round trip. Visiting this waterfall can be tough but it will surely be a different type of experience.
Things To Do In Devil’s Punchbowl Falls
While visiting this waterfall you can try kayaking, swimming and cliff diving. The cliff here can be dangerous which is why many park their vehicles at the parking area and hike to the fall. This hike will offer you stunning views, but it will not be an easy one either. Locals here often try cliff jumping, especially during the warm summer months but it is unofficial and can be risky. Admire breathtaking views of the Elk Mountains from the canyon area. However do not miss photographing the beautiful views of the Crystal Mill.
- Cautions: Keep local updates on road conditions before starting cliff driving as it can be risky. Another thing to note is that this is a great spot to try cliff jumping but it is unofficial and not recommended due to water level changes and it can have hidden rocks inside.
- Required Vehicle: Do not try cliff driving here with any standard passenger car. Schofield Pass Road requires a high-clearance 4WD, UTV, or ATV to drive through the road to the fall.
What To See Nearby
- Gothic Natural Area(5miles): It is a popular ghost town with amazing hiking and photography opportunities.
- Copper Creek Trailhead(7 miles): Take this small hike to experience amazing mountain views and waterfalls.
- Maroon Bells (~22 miles): This is a popular mountain landscape in Colorado. Here you can go hiking and photograph its beauty.
Quick Comparison Between Colorado Waterfalls By Interest
Every waterfall doesn’t provide the same type of experience. Some can be really family-friendly, while others can be perfect for hikers or sightseers. This is why you need to know which waterfall will suit your travel style. Go through the table below to find out which waterfall is the perfect option for you.
| Waterfall | If You Want To Visit | Why To Visit |
| Hanging Lake Falls | Most popular waterfall | Turquoise water and cascading |
| Broadmoor Seven Falls | Family-friendly options | Easy access, facilities |
| Fish Creek Falls | Wildlife viewing | To spot elk, birds, and other animals |
| Zapata Falls | Hidden gems | Ideal peaceful destination |
| Alberta Falls | Rocky Mountain National Park waterfalls | Beautiful alpine waterfalls within the national park |
| South Clear Creek Falls | Less crowded spot | For relaxation |
| Devil’s Punchbowl Falls | Swimming | Popular natural swimming area |
Travel Tips For Visiting Waterfalls In Colorado
- Plan your trips in advance because popular areas might require advance booking and reservations.
- Always check weather updates before heading out for any waterfall visit.
- Popular places get crowded soon so start your journey early to beat the crowd.
- Wear proper hiking footwear because trails can be muddy and slippery.
- Drink water and rest enough as Colorado’s high elevation can be challenging
- Pack a small bag with a hat, first-aid kit, sun protection, rain jacket, fully charged camera, and some snacks.
- Watch wildlife from a distance and respect nature.
- Carry a bug spray.
- Practice water safety to watch out for water because water near falls can be fast-moving, cold and deeper.
- Take any vehicle rentals from airport or hotel to reach these places and if you are travelling in a group then you can find minibus rentals as well.
Best Time to Visit Colorado Waterfalls
Not every waterfall is perfect for visiting year-round; in fact, some waterfalls freeze into ice during winter. Use the table below to know the ideal season for each waterfall.
| Waterfall Name | Best Season To Visit | Reason |
| Hanging Lake Falls | Late Spring to Early Fall (May–October) | Better water flow in the fall, accessible trail |
| Broadmoor Seven Falls | Spring to Fall (April–October) | Seasonal light show in the evening, ideal weather |
| Fish Creek Falls | Late Spring to Summer | The highest water flow |
| Zapata Falls | Late Spring to Early Fall | Comfortable weather |
| Alberta Falls | Summer to Early Fall | Clear trails, comfortable hiking conditions |
| South Clear Creek Falls | Summer to Fall | Ideal for sightseeing |
| Devil’s Punchbowl Falls | Summer | Ideal for swimming |
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Many waterfalls are accessible year-round but depending on the season, you should visit because some falls freeze over in winter.
Most waterfalls in this state prohibit swimming while some allow it.
It will take about half an hour to an hour to hike to Zapata Falls where you will need to wade through a cold creek and climb through slippery rocks.
The Seven Falls in Colorado are worth visiting especially if you are visiting for the first time or with your family
The best waterfall for sightseeing near Denver is Broadmoor Seven Falls, but Maxwell Falls is the closest one.
Closing Note
We hope that you could find information about your upcoming journey by reading this Colorado travel guide. From popular waterfalls like Seven Falls to lesser-known places like South Clear Creek Falls, each waterfall in the state offers memorable experiences to the visitors. However plan your upcoming Colorado journey and do not forget to explore these waterfalls to have more adventure.