Colorado is an outdoor lovers’ paradise. The Centennial State is home to some of the world’s most spectacular waterfalls, including Hanging Lake Falls and Crystal Falls.
Each of Colorado’s breathtaking waterfall is awe-inspiring in its own unique way. The majestic beauty of these falls has been attracting tourists from all over the country for years.
The state’s roaring cascades are reachable year-round and make an excellent adventure. With summer months upon us, now is the perfect time to plan a trip to see the best water falls in Colorado.
Also Read: 39 Best Things to do in Colorado
Best Waterfalls in Colorado
From multi-tiered cascades to thundering plunges, each Colorado waterfall offers something special and unique to behold.
From Hanging Lake Falls with its picturesque cliff-side location….
….to Bridal Veil Falls gracefully cascading down a slope;
Here are the best waterfalls in Colorado to visit now.
Bridal Veil Falls, Telluride
Bridal Veil Falls, located in Telluride, Colorado, boasts a breathtaking view that resonates with nature lovers.
As the tallest free-falling waterfall in the state, it stands at an impressive height of 365 feet.
The water’s descent from such an altitude creates a fine mist that gives the impression of a bride’s veil, hence the name.
The cascade, framed by majestic peaks and lush greenery, provides a stunning contrast to the white water.
It is, undoubtedly, one of the best waterfalls in Colorado and should be on your bucket list.
Moreover, the falls are accessible via a 1.8-mile hiking trail, which is moderately difficult, adding an element of challenge to the visit.
This trail also provides panoramic views of the town, making it a must-visit destination for those seeking to experience Colorado’s natural beauty.
Note that accessibility might depend on seasonal conditions, so it’s best to plan your visit accordingly.
Its height and sheer beauty make Bridal Veil Falls a mighty contender for the title of ‘best waterfall in Colorado’.
Box Canyon Falls, Ouray
The charming town of Ouray in the San Juan mountains is also known as the “Switzerland of America.”
One of the main attractions of Ouray is the Box Canyon Falls – a sight to behold!
This impressive waterfall in Colorado is a result of Canyon Creek narrowing into the dark chasm, dropping 285 feet to create Box Canyon Falls.
The roar of the water plunging down the narrow rock face echoes in the natural amphitheater, creating an unforgettable auditory experience.
Visitors can access the falls via a short and mildly challenging hike.
The trail leads to a steel bridge, from where you can see the full magnitude of the falls.
The surrounding area is also rich in wildlife, offering sightings of marmots, pikas, and a variety of bird species.
The falls, with their mighty roar and misty spray, deliver an unforgettable experience of Colorado’s natural wonders.
Make sure to check local conditions before planning your visit.
Also Read: 17 Best Waterfall Hikes in Colorado
Seven Falls, Colorado Springs
Seven Falls, located in Colorado Springs, is a unique waterfall that truly captures the essence of Colorado’s striking beauty.
The waterfall gets its name from the seven distinct steps that make up its cascading flow.
During the evening, the falls are illuminated, creating a beautiful display that blends naturally with the surrounding nocturnal landscape.
You can find this spectacular sight within the boundaries of the Broadmoor Resort, at 6 Lake Avenue, Colorado Springs.
While the falls themselves are the main attraction, the surrounding area is also worth exploring for its diverse flora and fauna.
To visit Seven Falls, you can avail of the shuttle service from The Broadmoor which will transport you to the location.
Once there, you can choose either the Mountain Elevator or the 224-step stairway to reach the top of the falls.
Along the way, you will be treated to panoramic views of the falls and the surrounding landscape.
The park is open throughout the year, but times may vary so it is advisable to check the Broadmoor Resort website for the current schedule.
Also, remember to wear comfortable shoes for the hike!
Helen Hunt Falls, Colorado Springs
Helen Hunt Falls, another gem in Colorado Springs, is a destination of exceptional charm.
The waterfall, named after the celebrated writer Helen Hunt Jackson, is a prominent feature of the North Cheyenne Cañon Park.
Standing at a height of 35 feet, the waterfall is a spectacle of cascading water that leaves visitors in awe.
The waterfall can be viewed from the base, or for a more immersive experience, visitors can climb a short set of stairs to an observation platform at the top.
It’s an easy and accessible option for those who are not keen on long hikes.
The Helen Hunt Falls Visitor Center is located at 3440 N Cheyenne Canyon Rd, Colorado Springs, CO 80906.
North Cheyenne Canon Park also has many other attractions and is a great day trip from Denver.
Continental Falls, Breckenridge
Continental Falls, located in the scenic town of Breckenridge, is a notable feature of the Spruce Creek trail.
Standing tall, this three-tiered water fall in Colorado is a sight worth beholding, especially during the summer months when the snowmelt feeds the falls, creating a powerful and awe-inspiring spectacle.
The falls are impressive and create a mesmerizing mist as the water crashes onto the rocks below.
A moderately challenging hike of 2.5 miles will lead you to the falls, passing through a dense forest of spruce and fir trees.
The trailhead is located at the end of Spruce Creek Road, just 15 minutes from the center of Breckenridge.
The hike to the falls can be a bit steep at times, but the majestic view of the falls makes it well worth the effort.
Visit early in the morning to avoid crowds and to enjoy the sight of sunlight hitting the cascades.
Booth Falls, Vail
Vail, known for its world-renowned ski slopes, is also home to the striking Booth Falls.
This waterfall is a grand spectacle of nature with its cascading waters rushing down a rock facade.
Located near the town, Booth Falls is accessible via a moderately difficult 4-mile round-trip trail.
The trail takes you through a diverse ecological landscape, from wildflower meadows to dense forest canopies, before arriving at the magnificent waterfall.
Booth Falls stands as a dramatic emblem of Colorado’s natural beauty, with its roaring waters creating a misty ambiance that leaves a lasting impression on its visitors.
Summer is an ideal time to visit, as the melting snow feeds the waterfall, enhancing its visual appeal and splendor.
Ouzel Falls, Estes Park
Ouzel Falls is one of the most popular waterfall hikes in Colorado.
Located within the Rocky Mountain National Park, this area is a hidden gem and hence, has way less crowds.
Fun fact: Ouzel falls are named after the American dipper aka water ouzel birds which can be seen at the falls looking for food.
The 40 foot waterfall can be reached via a moderate to strenuous 5.4 miles round trip hike.
The hike begins at the Wild Basin Trailhead and leads you into the backcountry wilderness of the Rocky mountains.
Along the way, you can also see small waterfalls – Calypso Cascades and Copeland Falls.
The trail follows the St Vrain Creek for the most part and is very scenic.
The trail also offers stunning views of Longs Peak, one of the most famous peaks in Colorado, as well as wildlife sightings including deer as well as the American dippers.
Fish Creek Falls, Steamboat Springs
Fish Creek Falls is a beautiful trail in a gorgeous forest on the outskirts of Steamboat Springs.
The main waterfall, which stands at an impressive 280 feet, is easily accessible through a quarter-mile trail from the parking area.
The bottom of the falls is a good choice for those seeking natural beauty without a strenuous hike.
Additionally, a more challenging 2.5-mile trail leads to the Upper Fish Creek Falls and beyond to Long Lake, providing opportunities for extended exploration.
The area, known for its wildlife diversity, can provide sightings of deer, fox, and various bird species.
The falls are particularly striking in the spring when the snowmelt increases the water flow, creating a powerful spectacle.
It’s also a popular spot in the winter for ice climbing.
The waterfall’s location at 34165 Fish Creek Falls Rd, Steamboat Springs, CO 80487, makes it easily accessible for visitors.
Rainbow Falls, Manitou Springs
Rainbow Falls, located in the charming Manitou Springs, is a sight to behold.
The waterfall, also known as Graffiti Falls, is a vibrant masterpiece where art and nature meet.
This 70-foot waterfall proudly displays a rainbow on the mist of the falls when the sunlight hits just right, hence the name Rainbow Falls.
To reach the falls, visitors must embark on a short but steep trail descending from the parking area.
The park is located at 45 W. Manitou Avenue, Manitou Springs, CO 80829.
Despite the urban graffiti, the falls retain their natural charm, providing a unique backdrop for photos.
The best time to visit is during the summer months when the water flow is at its peak.
Alberta Falls, Rocky Mountain National Park
Alberta Falls, located within the vast expanse of the Rocky Mountain National Park, is one of Colorado’s most popular waterfalls.
It is also one of the best hiking trails in Colorado.
This magnificent waterfall sees water crash down a 30-foot granite cliff, creating a stunning spectacle that draws in crowds from all over the world.
The trail to Alberta Falls, with a round-trip distance of just 1.6 miles, is rated as moderate and is well-traveled.
Visitors are treated to the soothing sounds of Glacier Creek and the sight of diverse forest flora as they make their way to the waterfall.
Upon reaching Alberta Falls, visitors can marvel at the power and beauty of the rushing waters from several viewing platforms.
Summer and fall are the best times to visit, as the waterfall is at its most vibrant due to the snowmelt and rainfall.
The trailhead for Alberta Falls can be found on Bear Lake Road, within Rocky Mountain National Park.
As with all natural attractions, visitors are encouraged to respect the environment by sticking to designated paths and leaving no trace.
Chasm Falls, Rocky Mountain National Park
Chasm Falls, also within RMNP, is a stunning display of nature’s power and beauty.
This waterfall, standing at about 25 feet tall, is formed where the Fall River cascades down a gorge.
Accessible via Old Fall River Road, the falls are an approximately 0.1-mile walk from the parking area.
The road itself is steep and winding, providing breathtaking views of the surrounding landscape.
The fall is at its most vibrant in the late spring and early summer when the snowmelt increases the water flow.
Visitors are advised to wear appropriate footwear as the trail, though short, can become slippery due to the waterfall’s mist.
The gentle roar of the cascading water, framed by the beautiful Rocky Mountain landscape, forms a beautiful setting for a memorable visit.
Bear Creek Falls, Telluride
Bear Creek Falls, located near the historic town of Telluride, is an impressive sight.
The waterfall is a focal point of a moderate 4.5-mile round trip hike, where it crashes down dramatically from a height of over 100 feet.
The trail, which starts at the end of South Pine Street in Telluride, meanders through thick forests and open meadows, providing visitors with diverse and stunning views throughout the journey.
The waterfall’s peak volume is in spring and early summer, with the flow lessening later in the season.
In addition to the waterfall, the Bear Creek Trail also provides hikers with a view of Telluride from a unique vantage point.
The waterfall looks especially pretty in autumn when the changing colors of the leaves complement its rocky surroundings.
Hanging Lake Waterfall, Glenwood Springs
Hanging Lake, located near Glenwood canyon in Colorado, is a beautiful sight with its stunning blue waters and lush, green surroundings.
The lake can be reached via an easy 1-mile trail beginning at the Hanging Lake Trailhead, which is located off I-70 in Glenwood Springs.
The hike itself passes through Spouting Rock Waterfall and provides beautiful views of Glenwood canyon and the surrounding mountains.
Unique formations of Travertine deposits around the lake give it an almost ethereal feel.
The lake is located at 3400 S Glen Avenue, Glenwood Springs, CO 81601 and is a popular spot for swimming in the summer months.
Visitors should note that pets are not allowed on the trail and must remain in vehicles to preserve the fragile environment of the lake.
Hanging Lake is also known to be home to a variety of wildlife, providing opportunities for nature enthusiasts to observe birds and other animals in their natural habitats.
South Mineral Creek Falls, Silverton
South Mineral Creek Falls, located near the historic mining town of Silverton, is a sight to behold.
It is one of the best Colorado waterfalls for those who like to seek out hidden gems.
The waterfall is an integral part of the South Mineral Creek campground, a popular location for campers who appreciate the unspoiled beauty of nature.
As you approach the waterfall, the vibrant blue water cascading down the rocky gorge is a sight that leaves visitors in awe.
The 1 mile trail leading up to the waterfall is well-marked and traverses an area of outstanding natural beauty, with abundant flora and fauna.
The waterfall is most spectacular during the late spring and early summer when the water flow is high from the snowmelt.
The gorgeous Ice Lakes Trail is also located near this waterfall.
Zapata Falls, San Luis Valley
Zapata Falls, located in Colorado’s scenic San Luis Valley, is a unique and captivating sight.
Visitors find themselves entranced by the 30-foot cascade of water, which presents a stunning contrast against the rugged backdrop of the Sangre de Cristo Mountains.
The drive to the falls is just as dramatic, with views of the Great Sand Dunes National Park and Preserve serving as an exciting prelude to the main attraction.
The journey to the falls begins with a relatively accessible 0.5-mile trail.
The hike can be a bit challenging due to the high altitude and rocky terrain, but the magnificent view waiting at the end is worth the effort.
As the trail ends, visitors must scramble over rocks along the river to reach the hidden falls, which are located inside a cavern.
Zapata Falls is best visited during the summer months when the weather is warm and the water flow is high.
During winter, the waterfall freezes into a fascinating ice formation that attracts its own set of admirers.
The area around the waterfall provides fantastic opportunities for camping, hiking, and wildlife observation, contributing to an immersive outdoor experience.
The falls are located near the town of Mosca, off Highway 150.
After a day spent exploring Zapata Falls, visitors might also enjoy checking out the nearby attractions of San Luis Valley, which include the aforementioned Great Sand Dunes National Park and the historic town of Alamosa.
Rifle Falls, Rifle Falls State Park
Rifle Falls, situated within Rifle Falls State Park, is a distinctive three-pronged waterfall that spills over a cliffside.
The falls stand at a height of 70 feet, sending mist and spray into the air as the water hits the pool below.
The waterfall can be reached via a relatively short and accessible trail starting at the state park’s camping area.
The path offers views of the surrounding forest, limestone caves, and the falls themselves.
The water volume of the falls is at its peak in the late spring and early summer due to snowmelt.
Visitors are advised to wear suitable footwear as the trail can become slippery from the waterfall’s mist.
The park, located at 5775 Highway 325, Rifle, CO 81650, prohibits pets on the trail to protect the local wildlife and flora.
In addition to the beautiful waterfall, Rifle Falls State Park is home to a variety of birds and other wildlife, providing an engaging experience for nature lovers.
Nearby, the town of Rifle offers dining and shopping options for visitors to explore after their visit to the falls.
Also Read: 19 Best State Parks in Colorado to Visit Now
North Clear Creek Falls, Creede
North Clear Creek Falls, located near Lake City, Colorado is a famous waterfall in the Rio Grande National Forest.
The creek plunges over 100 feet from a rocky volcanic ash cliff into the Willow Canyon below to create this beauty.
A short hike of 5 mins take visitors to the observation platform from which you can enjoy the waterfall.
Fun fact: the North Clear Creek waterfall is a nesting site for one of rare Colorado birds, the black swift.
You can spot the birds flying above the falls in summer or even see their nest near the waterfall curtain if you bring binoculars.
The waterfall can be reached by a short drive from Creede, CO along the Silver Thread Scenic Byway.
There is a parking lot as well as restrooms and picnic tables at the trailhead.
The waterfall is accessible only in the summer peak season.
Horsetooth Falls, Fort Collins
Horsetooth Falls, located near Fort Collins, is an impressive sight that draws visitors with its 20-foot cascade.
The waterfall is part of the scenic Horsetooth Mountain Open Space, a region marked by its diverse wildlife and flora.
Access to the waterfall is via a well-marked 2.5-mile trail, which takes hikers through grasslands and forests.
The trail is moderately difficult, making it suitable for hikers with some experience.
The best time to visit Horsetooth Falls is during the spring when the snowmelt increases the water flow, resulting in a more impressive cascade.
The waterfall is located at 6550 W County Road 38 E, Fort Collins, CO 80526.
While there, visitors might also enjoy exploring the rest of the Horsetooth Mountain Open Space, which includes over 29 miles of trails for hiking and biking.
Maxwell Falls, Denver
Maxwell Falls, located near Denver, is famous for its impressive cascade that drops over rocky terrain.
The waterfall is a highlight of the Maxwell Falls Lower Trail, a popular route among hikers who appreciate natural beauty and outdoor activities.
This 4-mile loop trail is moderately difficult, with varied terrain and an elevation gain that adds an element of challenge.
It is especially beautiful in the spring and early summer when the waterfall’s flow is at its peak due to melting snow.
At the base of the waterfall, the cool mist creates a refreshing atmosphere, ideal for a brief rest before continuing the hike.
For those interested in fauna and flora, the trail provides opportunities to observe local wildlife and vegetation.
The Upper Maxwell Falls trailhead is located off Black Mountain Drive in Evergreen, Colorado.
The Lower Maxwell Falls trailhead is located on South Brook Forest Road.
Casa Bonita Waterfall, Lakewood
So what’s a restaurant doing on this list of Colorado waterfalls?
Casa Bonita Waterfall, located in the Casa Bonita restaurant in Lakewood, Colorado is a must-see for anyone visiting the area.
The 40-foot waterfall is an impressive engineering feat and provides a stunning backdrop for the Mexican-themed eatery.
The restaurant also features cliff divers, puppet shows, arcade games, and other entertainment that create an unforgettable experience.
The restaurant is open year-round and provides visitors with an exciting dining experience.
The waterfall has featured in television shows such as South Park, making it a popular attraction for pop culture fans.
Treasure Falls, Pagosa Springs
Treasure Falls, located near Pagosa Springs, is an impressive natural wonder that offers a breathtaking spectacle with its 105-foot cascade.
The waterfall, named after a local legend about a hidden treasure chest, is a highlight of the San Juan National Forest and attracts numerous visitors each year.
The falls are accessible via a hike on the Treasure Falls Trail, an easy half-mile route that offers scenic views of the surrounding mountains and forests.
The trail leads to a viewing platform where visitors can truly appreciate the beauty of the waterfall and even feel the mist from the falls on their faces.
During the spring and summer season, the waterfall’s flow is most robust due to the snowmelt.
The trailhead for Treasure Falls is located off Highway 160, about 15 miles northeast of Pagosa Springs, providing easy access for those visiting the area.
Mystic Falls, Telluride
Located near the town of Telluride, Mystic Falls is a must-visit Colorado waterfall.
This stunning cascade drops from a height of approximately 200 feet, making it one of the biggest waterfalls in Colorado.
Access to the falls is via a moderately difficult 2.5-mile trail, which winds through beautiful forests and across mountainous terrain.
The best time to visit this waterfall is during the spring and early summer when the snowmelt increases the water volume, creating an impressive spectacle.
Wildlife lovers may also spot local animals and birds along the trail.
The falls are located close to Telluride, making them easily accessible for tourists.
In addition to the waterfall, the area provides opportunities for other outdoor activities such as hiking and bird watching.
Consider adding Mystic Falls to your itinerary when visiting Telluride.
King Solomon Falls, Steamboat Springs
King Solomon Falls, located near Steamboat Springs, is an impressive sight for visitors.
This waterfall, with a drop of around 50 feet, is a significant feature in Routt National Forest.
Access to the falls is via a moderately challenging hike that takes you through an evergreen forest, presenting an opportunity to appreciate the local flora and fauna.
The sound of the cascading water provides a refreshing backdrop to this hike.
King Solomon Falls is most active during spring and early summer, when snowmelt feeds the waterfall, providing a more intense and dramatic cascade.
The waterfall is located on private property, and respectful visitation is fundamental.
The King Solomon Falls trailhead is located off Routt County Road 129, making it easily accessible for those visiting Steamboat Springs.
Whether you are looking for a short hike to enjoy quieter falls or an adventure to explore larger cascades, Colorado is the place to be.
What are your favorite and most beautiful waterfalls in Colorado?
Which Colorado waterfall do you plan to chase next? Let us know below!