7 Best Waterfalls In Colorado With Map And Hiking Trails

Best Waterfalls in Colorado

Waterfalls in Colorado are simply amazing!

Colorado is known for its stunning natural beauty, with majestic mountains, crystal clear lakes, and rushing rivers. But perhaps one of the state’s most awe-inspiring features is its abundance of waterfalls. From the biggest waterfalls in Colorado to gentle trickles, these waterfalls are a sight to behold.

In this post, we will showcase the 7 best waterfalls in Colorado that we believe are among the most beautiful waterfalls in Colorado. We’ll take a deep dive into each waterfall, exploring their history, geology, and what makes them so special.

So whether you’re a seasoned hiker or a casual nature lover, this post is for you. We’ve scoured the state to find the best waterfalls in Colorado, each one a testament to the incredible natural beauty of this great state.

The 7 best waterfalls in Colorado are: 1) Bridal Veil Falls Telluride 2) Seven Falls Colorado Springs 3) Box Canyon Falls Ouray 4) Fish Creek Falls Steamboat Springs 5) Hanging Lake Falls Glenwood Springs 6) Rifle Falls Rifle Falls State Park and 7) Treasure Falls Pagosa Springs.

So put on your adventure hat, grab your water bottle, and get ready to experience the magic of these beautiful waterfalls in Colorado.

Waterfalls in Colorado: From Mighty Mountains

Before we dive into the best waterfalls in Colorado, it’s important to understand a bit about the state’s geography. Colorado is known for its rugged terrain, with towering peaks, deep canyons, and rushing rivers.

The state’s geography is dominated by the Rocky Mountains, which run through the state from north to south. The highest point in the state is Mount Elbert, which stands at 14,440 feet above sea level.

In addition to the Rockies, Colorado is home to several other mountain ranges, including the San Juan Mountains, the Sangre de Cristo Mountains, and the Front Range. The state’s topography is also characterized by its high plains, mesas, and plateaus.

Colorado’s geology plays a crucial role in the formation of its many waterfalls. The state’s mountains are composed primarily of metamorphic and igneous rock, which are resistant to erosion.

As water flows down the mountainsides, it encounters areas of softer rock, such as shale or sandstone, which are more easily eroded. Over time, this erosion creates channels and pools, eventually forming waterfalls.

The unique geology of Colorado’s mountains creates a diverse array of waterfalls, from delicate cascades to thundering giants.

Colorado Waterfalls: A Journey Through Nature’s Artistry

When it comes to natural wonders, few things are as striking as waterfalls. There’s something mesmerizing about watching water cascade down a rock face, with mist and spray creating a magical atmosphere.

As you read through this post, you’ll discover that each of the seven waterfalls on our list is unique in its own way. Some are accessible only by strenuous hikes, while others are just a short walk from a parking lot. Some are towering giants, while others are more modest in size.

But what they all have in common is their ability to take your breath away and leave you in awe of nature’s power and beauty.

7 Best Waterfalls in Colorado Map

The below Colorado waterfalls map shows the location of the 7 best waterfalls in Colorado.

Bridal Veil Falls, Telluride, Colorado

Bridal Veil Falls, located in Telluride (see Colorado waterfalls map above), is widely considered to be the most beautiful waterfall in Colorado.

Bridal Veil Falls is the biggest waterfall in Colorado.

This towering waterfall cascades down a 365-foot cliff face, making it the tallest waterfall in Colorado. The falls are fed by Bridal Veil Creek, which flows down from the surrounding mountains.

What sets Bridal Veil Falls apart is its sheer size and natural beauty. The waterfall’s mist creates a veil-like effect as it cascades down the cliff face, giving it its name.

Surrounding the falls are stunning mountain peaks, including the iconic Wilson Peak. The falls are also surrounded by lush forest, which creates a magical atmosphere that is both serene and awe-inspiring.

One of the unique features of Bridal Veil Falls is the presence of the Bridal Veil Power Station, which was built in 1907 to generate electricity for the nearby town of Telluride. The power station is now a historical landmark and serves as a reminder of Colorado’s industrial past.

Hiking Trails to Bridal Veil Falls Telluride

While there is a road that leads up to the base of Bridal Veil Falls, it is only accessible by high clearance 4-wheel drive vehicles and is not recommended for most visitors.

Bridal Veil Falls Trail

Bridal Veil Falls Trail, a moderate hike to Bridal Veil Falls, with the trailhead near Telluride, takes you through a beautiful aspen forest before ascending to the base of the waterfall. The trail is roughly 2 miles round trip and is rated as moderate to difficult.

Bear Creek, Wasatch and Bridal Veil Trails

Another option is the longer (15 mile) and more challenging loop covering Bear Creek Trail, Wasatch Mountain and Bridal Veil Trail, which offers stunning views of the surrounding mountains and passes through several waterfalls and wildflower meadows along the way.

If you’re planning a trip to Colorado, Bridal Veil Falls is a must-see destination. Whether you’re an experienced hiker or just looking for a scenic drive, the falls are easily accessible by car or foot.

The falls are located just a short drive from Telluride (see Colorado waterfalls map above), which is itself a charming mountain town with plenty of shops, restaurants, and other attractions. So come and experience the magic of Bridal Veil Falls for yourself, and you’ll see why it’s considered one of the most beautiful waterfalls in Colorado.

Ready for the trip? Check out our detailed guide to the Bridal Veil Falls to plan your visit!

Seven Falls, Broadmoor, Colorado Springs

Seven Falls, located in Colorado Springs (see Colorado waterfalls map above), is a stunning waterfall that features seven distinct cascades that drop a total of 181 feet. The falls are surrounded by lush vegetation, towering cliffs, and awe-inspiring rock formations, making it a popular destination for nature lovers and hikers.

What sets Seven Falls apart is its natural beauty and unique surroundings. You can take a scenic walk up the falls, passing by sparkling streams and vibrant plant life along the way.

At the top of the falls, you can enjoy breathtaking views of Colorado Springs and the surrounding mountains. In the evening, the falls are illuminated with colorful lights, creating a magical atmosphere that is both romantic and captivating.

Hiking Trails | Seven Falls Colorado Springs

Seven Falls is a private ticketed attraction from the Broadmoor Hotel. You must park at 1045 Lower Gold Camp Road and take a complimentary shuttle to the park entrance.

At the park, you can climb roughly 220 steps to reach the top of the falls, from where you get incredible views. There are two hiking trails at the top:

Trail to Inspiration Point

A roughly one mile trail to Inspiration Point with spectacular views of the city of Colorado Springs.

Trail to Midnight Falls

A short (1/2 hour) hike to a smaller, yet beautiful, waterfall: Midnight Falls.

One of the unique features of Seven Falls is the presence of the Broadmoor Soaring Adventure, which allows you to take a thrilling zipline tour over the falls and through the surrounding forest. The zipline tour provides a unique perspective on the falls and allows you to experience the beauty of the area from a completely different angle.

If you’re planning a trip to Colorado, Seven Falls is a must-see destination. With its natural beauty, thrilling zipline tour, and picturesque surroundings, Seven Falls is sure to leave a lasting impression.

So come and experience the magic of Seven Falls for yourself, and you’ll see why it’s considered one of the most beautiful waterfalls in Colorado. Click here for our detailed guide.

Box Canyon Falls, Ouray

Box Canyon Falls is a breathtaking waterfall located in the town of Ouray, Colorado (see Colorado waterfalls map above). The falls are fed by the waters of Canyon Creek and drop over 285 feet into a narrow box canyon, making it a truly awe-inspiring sight.

You can access the falls via a short hike through the narrow canyon, which adds to the sense of adventure and excitement.

What sets Box Canyon Falls apart is its unique location within a narrow canyon, which creates a dramatic and memorable experience. The canyon itself is made of solid rock and towering cliffs, and you can feel the cool mist from the waterfall as they walk through.

In addition to the falls, you can also explore the surrounding area, which includes stunning views of the San Juan Mountains.

Box Canyon Falls is part of the San Juan Mountains, which are known for their rugged beauty and unique geology. The area is characterized by steep peaks, deep canyons, and stunning rock formations, making it a popular destination for hikers, climbers, and nature lovers.

Box Canyon Falls is a testament to the natural beauty of the region, and is a must-see for anyone visiting the area.

If you’re planning a trip to Colorado, Box Canyon Falls should be at the top of your list. With its stunning natural beauty, unique location, and proximity to the San Juan Mountains, the falls are a truly unforgettable experience.

So come and explore the narrow canyon, feel the cool mist of the waterfall, and take in the awe-inspiring views of the surrounding area. You won’t be disappointed! Click here for our detailed guide!

Fish Creek Falls, Steamboat Springs

Fish Creek Falls is a beautiful waterfall located just outside the town of Steamboat Springs, Colorado (see Colorado waterfalls map above). The falls drop a total of 283 feet and are surrounded by lush vegetation and towering cliffs.

You can access the falls via a short hike through the scenic Fish Creek Canyon, which adds to the sense of adventure and excitement.

What sets Fish Creek Falls apart is its stunning natural beauty and unique surroundings. The falls are situated in the heart of the Routt National Forest, which is home to a diverse array of flora and fauna.

You can take in the beautiful views of the surrounding forest as they hike to the falls, and can even spot wildlife such as elk, deer, and black bears.

Fish Creek Falls, Steamboat Springs, is part of the Park Range, which is a mountain range in northwestern Colorado that is known for its stunning peaks, deep canyons, and diverse wildlife. The area around Fish Creek Falls is particularly scenic, with towering cliffs, sparkling streams, and vibrant wildflowers.

If you’re planning a trip to Colorado, Fish Creek Falls is a must-see destination (see Colorado waterfalls map above). With its stunning natural beauty, unique surroundings, and proximity to the Park Range, the falls are a truly unforgettable experience.

So come and explore the Fish Creek Canyon, take in the breathtaking views, and experience the beauty of Colorado for yourself. You won’t be disappointed! Find a detailed guide here.

Hanging Lakes Falls, Glenwood Springs

Hanging Lake Falls is one of the most unique and breathtaking waterfalls in Colorado. Located in Glenwood Canyon (see Colorado waterfalls map above), it’s a stunning turquoise-blue colored lake that looks like something out of a postcard.

The waterfall is created by the natural spring-fed lake, which pours down a series of cascades into the canyon below. What makes this waterfall so special is not just its beauty, but also its location and the surrounding natural features.

Hanging Lake is situated in a steep, rocky canyon and is part of the White River National Forest. The canyon was formed over millions of years by the movement of glaciers and erosion caused by the Colorado River.

The area surrounding the waterfall is filled with lush vegetation, including ferns and mosses, and the cliffs are covered in hanging gardens. The lake itself is filled with aquatic life, including rare species of algae and invertebrates.

One of the most unique features of Hanging Lake Falls is the trail leading up to it. The trail is only 1.2 miles long, but it’s steep and challenging, with over 1,000 feet of elevation gain. The trail includes several steep switchbacks and a number of wooden boardwalks and stairs that lead visitors up to the top of the falls.

Once at the top, you are rewarded with stunning views of the waterfall and the surrounding canyon.

If you’re looking for a one-of-a-kind Colorado waterfall experience, Hanging Lake Falls should be at the top of your list. While the trail is challenging, it’s worth the effort to see the beauty of the falls up close.

And if you’re in the area (see Colorado waterfalls map above), be sure to check out other nearby waterfalls, such as Spouting Rock Falls or Glenwood Canyon Falls. Overall, Hanging Lake Falls is a must-see destination for nature lovers and outdoor enthusiasts alike. Click here for a detailed guide!

Rifle Falls, Rifle Falls State Park

Rifle Falls is a picturesque triple waterfall located in Rifle Falls State Park, near the town of Rifle in western Colorado (see Colorado waterfalls map above). It is a triple waterfall that cascades down a 70-foot cliff and flows into a shallow pool below.

The falls are surrounded by lush greenery, making it a popular destination for nature lovers and hikers. The sound of the waterfalls and the beauty of the area make Rifle Falls a peaceful and serene place to visit.

What makes Rifle Falls unique is the three distinct streams that flow over the falls, creating a mesmerizing visual display. The falls are surrounded by towering limestone cliffs, which provide a striking backdrop for visitors to enjoy.

Rifle Falls is also a part of the larger Rifle Falls State Park (see Colorado waterfalls map above), which offers camping, hiking, and other outdoor activities for you to enjoy.

Rifle Falls is located in the heart of the Rifle Mountains and is a part of the larger White River National Forest. The park is home to several other waterfalls, including the popular 70-foot tall Rifle Falls, which can be accessed via a short hiking trail from the parking lot.

Nearby are the East and Middle Rifle Falls, both of which can be reached by short hiking trails. The area around Rifle Falls is rich in wildlife, and you may spot deer, elk, and other animals while exploring the park.

If you are looking for a peaceful and scenic waterfall, Rifle Falls is a must-visit destination. With its triple waterfall, towering limestone cliffs, and lush greenery, it is one of the most beautiful waterfalls in Colorado.

Whether you are a nature lover, a hiker, or just looking for a peaceful retreat, Rifle Falls is the perfect place to escape the hustle and bustle of city life and enjoy the beauty of nature. Click here for a detailed guide.

Treasure Falls, Pagosa Springs

Treasure Falls is a beautiful waterfall located in the San Juan National Forest, near the town of Pagosa Springs, Colorado (see Colorado waterfalls map above). This stunning waterfall is a popular destination for locals and tourists alike, attracting visitors from all over the world.

The falls can be reached by an easy hike along a paved trail that winds through a beautiful forested area, making it a great spot for families and nature enthusiasts.

The waterfall is located (see Colorado waterfalls map above) in the rugged and picturesque San Juan Mountains, a range that is known for its steep peaks, deep canyons, and breathtaking vistas. The falls drop an impressive 105 feet, and the mist created by the water crashing into the rocks below can be seen from quite a distance.

Treasure Falls is named after the legend of a treasure buried in the area by French fur trappers.

What makes Treasure Falls unique is the contrast between the lush green forest and the stark white rocks of the waterfall. The waterfall is surrounded by towering cliffs and rock formations, making it a dramatic and awe-inspiring sight.

The falls are particularly beautiful in the early morning or late afternoon when the light is softer and creates beautiful reflections on the water.

If you’re in the area (see Colorado waterfalls map above), don’t miss the opportunity to visit Treasure Falls. The waterfall is located near several other natural attractions, including the Pagosa Hot Springs and the Wolf Creek Ski Area, making it a great stop on a road trip or weekend getaway.

The hike to the waterfall is easy and suitable for all ages and fitness levels, and the stunning natural beauty of the area is sure to leave you feeling refreshed and rejuvenated. So pack your bags and head to Treasure Falls, where adventure and beauty await you. Click here for a detailed guide.

7 Best Colorado Waterfalls: Natural Wonders Worth Seeing

Colorado boasts an impressive array of waterfalls, each with its unique charm and natural beauty. From the roaring cascades of Bridal Veil Falls to the serene mist of Treasure Falls, there is no shortage of breathtaking waterfalls to explore in this state.

The waterfalls are often located in or near state and national parks, providing you with an opportunity to witness the stunning natural landscapes of Colorado up close. Many of the waterfalls are situated near hiking trails, allowing you to take in the natural beauty of Colorado on foot.

There are also opportunities for camping, fishing, jeep tours, horseback riding, ice climbing and wildlife watching near some of the waterfalls.

Colorado waterfalls are a must-visit for anyone looking to experience the state’s natural beauty. Whether you are a seasoned hiker or just looking for a scenic drive, the waterfalls offer something for everyone.

So pack your hiking boots, grab your camera, and head out to discover the magic of the best Colorado waterfalls. With so many options to choose from, you are sure to find a waterfall that will take your breath away.