Seven Falls, Colorado Springs: A Spectacular Waterfall In The Heart Of Colorado

Seven Falls, Colorado Springs, is a breathtaking natural wonder that offers you an unforgettable experience.

Located at the foot of Pikes Peak in the southern part of the Rocky Mountains, Seven Falls is a series of seven cascading waterfalls that drop a total of 181 feet, making it one of the most beautiful waterfalls in Colorado.

Compared to other 7 best waterfalls in Colorado, Seven Falls stands out for its dramatic beauty and unique location. Unlike other waterfalls that are often located in remote areas, Seven Falls is easily accessible and can be reached within a short drive from Colorado Springs.

You should note that there is an admission fee to enter the falls. The falls are also well-maintained, with paved pathways and bridges that offer visitors a safe and enjoyable way to explore the area.

In this blog post, we will take a closer look at Seven Falls, Colorado Springs, and explore what makes it such a unique and captivating natural wonder.

Discovering the Beauty of Seven Falls in Colorado Springs

Seven Falls is part of the South Cheyenne Creek, which runs through a narrow canyon and creates a stunning natural spectacle that is hard to miss. The crystal-clear waters cascade down the seven rocky tiers, creating a symphony of sound and motion that is truly mesmerizing.

What makes Seven Falls so beautiful is its unique setting in a box canyon surrounded by towering rock formations, lush vegetation, and crystal-clear pools.

Geology and History

The falls are situated in a narrow canyon, surrounded by towering rock formations that are millions of years old. The canyon was formed by the South Cheyenne Creek, which carved its way through the rock over millions of years, creating the spectacular natural wonder that we see today.

Interestingly, Seven Falls has also played an important role in the history of Colorado. The falls were originally discovered by Native Americans, who considered them to be sacred and believed that they possessed healing powers.

Later, the falls became a popular destination for tourists, and in the early 1900s, a series of bridges, stairs, and walkways were built to make the falls more accessible to visitors.

Best Time of the Year to Visit Seven Falls

The best time of the year to visit Seven Falls depends on what you’re looking for. The falls are open year-round, but the experience can vary greatly depending on the season.

The summer months (June-August) are the most popular time to visit, as the weather is warm and sunny. The falls are especially beautiful during the spring and summer months when the water is at its highest and the surrounding vegetation is in full bloom.

During fall, the changing colors of the leaves create a beautiful backdrop for the falls.

Hiking Trails to Seven Falls

The main trail is a paved path that follows the creek and leads to the base of the falls. A series of steps (200+) lead you all the way to the top of the falls. Along the way, you can take in stunning views of the surrounding mountains and wildlife.

If you are looking for a more challenging hike, there are a few trails at the top that offer different perspectives of the falls and the surrounding canyon.

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.

The surrounding canyon is home to a wide variety of wildlife and vegetation. You may see elk, deer, bighorn sheep, and various species of birds as you hike through the area.

The vegetation in the canyon includes a mix of pine, spruce, and aspen trees, as well as a variety of wildflowers. In the spring and summer months, the canyon is particularly lush and green, creating a beautiful contrast with the red rock formations.

How to Get to Seven Falls

Getting to Seven Falls is relatively easy, as it is located just a few miles southwest of Colorado Springs. Parking is available off-site, with shuttles to the falls.

You must park at 1045 Lower Gold Camp Road and take a complimentary shuttle to the park entrance.

You may want to arrive early in the morning or later in the afternoon, when the crowds are smaller. Additionally, Seven Falls night lighting during these times can create beautiful reflections and shadows on the falls and surrounding canyon.

Other Activities Near Seven Falls, Colorado Springs

Seven Falls offers an exciting zipline adventure that is perfect for thrill-seekers and adventurers. The zipline course features 10 different lines that span a distance of more than 1 mile through the beautiful canyon. Some of the ziplines take you over the rushing waters of the creek below, while others offer stunning views of the surrounding canyon and mountains.

You can also enjoy fishing in nearby North Cheyenne Creek, Quail Lake or Prospect Lake, horseback riding and jeep tours through the surrounding hills and canyons, or picnics at scenic overlooks in the area that offer stunning views of the canyons and surrounding mountains.

Swimming in Seven Falls is not allowed, however, there are nearby swimming holes along the South Cheyenne Creek where you can cool off on a hot summer day.

If you are visiting Colorado Springs, you may also want to explore Garden of the Gods, dramatic sandstone rock formations against the backdrop of Pikes Peak.

Map of Seven Falls, Colorado Springs

If you are visiting Colorado Springs, two of the four amazing national parks in Colorado are in reasonable driving distance (roughly 3 hours).

Rocky Mountain National Park, Colorado

Rocky Mountain National Park is a must-visit destination located near Seven Falls in Colorado Springs. The park covers over 400 square miles of rugged mountain terrain, including towering peaks, alpine lakes, and picturesque valleys.

Some of the park’s most popular attractions include Trail Ridge Road, a scenic drive that provides stunning views of the surrounding mountains, and Bear Lake, a picturesque alpine lake that’s perfect for fishing and kayaking.

If you’re looking for a diverse and exciting outdoor adventure near Seven Falls, Rocky Mountain National Park is an excellent choice. Check here for the 13 best things to do in Rocky Mountain National Park!

Great Sand Dunes National Park, Colorado

Great Sand Dunes National Park is a unique natural wonder located near Seven Falls in Colorado Springs. The park boasts the tallest sand dunes in North America, with some reaching heights of over 700 feet.

You can hike on the dunes, sandboard or sled down them, or simply take in the stunning views. The park also offers a range of other activities, including hiking trails, camping, stargazing, and wildlife watching.

If you’re looking for a break from the mountains and waterfalls, Great Sand Dunes National Park is the perfect destination for a unique and unforgettable experience. Check here for a detailed blog post on the park!

Tips to Visitors

You should be prepared for the weather and terrain. The trails to the falls can be steep and rocky in places, and visitors should wear sturdy shoes and bring plenty of water and sunscreen. You should be prepared for the altitude and should stay hydrated throughout the day.

Additionally, the weather in the canyon can be unpredictable, so you should dress in layers and be prepared for sudden changes in temperature or weather conditions.

Seven Falls near Colorado Springs is a ticketed attraction, and you should review the latest information on pricing, parking, and other visiting details here. You are advised to buy tickets online to avoid long lines at the ticket counter.

Tips for Photography

If you want to capture the beauty of Seven Falls with your camera, there are a few photography tips to keep in mind. The best time of day for photography is in the morning or late afternoon when the light is softer and more golden.

You should also consider bringing a polarizing filter to reduce glare and make the colors of the falls and foliage pop. Additionally, you should experiment with different angles and perspectives to capture the unique beauty of the falls and surrounding canyon.

Striking Views and Adventure Await at Seven Falls, Colorado Springs

If you’re looking for a truly unforgettable adventure, look no further than Seven Falls, Colorado Springs. With its stunning natural beauty, thrilling zipline course, and wide range of outdoor activities, this destination has something for everyone.

So why not plan your visit today and experience the wonder and excitement of Seven Falls for yourself? You won’t be disappointed.