The 10 Best Waterfalls in Colorado

Colorado has some of the most beautiful natural landscapes in North America. So, it’s no surprise that the state boasts quite a few gorgeous waterfalls that should top your list of places to visit. To help you narrow down which to visit first, here’s our list of the 10 best.

The Best Waterfalls in Colorado

1. Bridal Veil Falls

Measuring 365 feet, Bridal Veil Falls is the tallest free-falling cascade in the state.

Reachable by a 1.2-mile hike or, if you have 4-wheel drive by car, these falls are a prime destination for Colorado visitors.

Due to its height, the water crashing into the Telluride’s box canyon creates a distinct rumbling that you’ll quickly grow to love.

Even during the winter, when the water is frozen, it still attracts guests due to its beauty. The occasional brave climber will also test their skills by scaling its cliff during the colder months.

2. Boulder Falls

Anyone who assumes a waterfall worth visiting has to be tucked away on a long, arduous hike has never visited Boulder Falls.

Not far outside one of the state’s main cities is this gorgeous fall that’s reachable with just a 100-yard walk.

Since the trail is out-and-back, there’s no chance of getting lost, and you can easily make the trek in just a few minutes, no matter what sort of hiker you are.

The drive to arrive at the path entrance is also a scenic one that captures Colorado’s natural beauty.

3. The Broadmoor Seven Falls

As the name would suggest, the Broadmoor Seven Falls don’t offer just 1 waterfall. Visitors can feast their eyes on 7 cascades, each more breathtaking than the last.

The waterfalls form a series of steps that carry water from South Cheyenne Creek 181 feet into South Cheyenne Cañon.

The stepping pattern of the falls makes this a popular photo location and a must-visit spot for Colorado visitors.

They also form the centerpiece of the different hikes and nature trails you can enjoy around the area that are at varying levels of difficulty.

4. Helen Hunt Falls

Don’t get these falls confused with the actress. The Helen Hunt falls are actually named after the writer and activist Helen Maria Hunt Jackson, who lived during the 1800s.

Measuring 36 feet in height, they might not be the tallest falls in Colorado, but what they lack in attitude, they make up for in beauty.

With just a short and easy 0.1-mile path, you can see these natural falls in all their glory.

Due to their smaller size, they create a peaceful environment that lulls visitors into deep relaxation.

5. South Mineral Creek Falls

South Mineral Creek Falls, also known as South Fork Mineral Creek Falls, is one of the most colorful and picturesque cascades in Colorado.

The hike to get to the falls can vary in length and difficulty depending on your starting point.

If you wish to take the entire out-and-back trail, you can aim to set aside an entire day of trekking on the 13.6-mile path.

However, you can also take a short walk to the falls from the camping area if you decide to spend a night or two in the great outdoors.

6. Cascade Falls

The Cascade Falls are a series of waterfalls that come together to create one seamless picture of natural beauty.

Though the 7.4-mile trail to reach the falls might seem intimidating, it’s well worth the walk.

Luckily, though a longer path, it’s generally considered an easy route, so most hikers should be able to make the journey without any trouble.

That also means the hike can go by quickly, especially if you make sure to really take in the scenery of the surrounding woods as you walk by.on your way.

7. Rifle Falls

The Rifle Falls cascade is the namesake of the Rifle Falls State Park in Garfield County, Colorado.

Once you get a look at them for yourself, it’s easy to see why the park was named after the falls.

Rather than a singular waterfall, the falls are made up of 3 cascades that are 70 feet in height.

Since the falls are located in a state park, the hike to get to them allows visitors the chance to see the local wildlife. In fact, deer, elk, and coyotes are some of the most commonly seen animals.

8. Fish Creek Falls

Just 3.5 hours outside of Denver, you’ll find Steamboat Springs, the home of Fish Creek Falls.

The trail to get to the falls is an easy 0.5-mile walk that allows you to take a leisurely stroll through nature.

In fact, when timed, a determined but average hiker could make the trip to the falls and back in around 30 minutes.

However, it’s highly recommended that you take your time to really enjoy the trail and the falls once you get to them.

You can even take your dog on the walk with you.

9. Box Canyon Falls

If you have some time to spare in Ouray, Colorado, and you’re up for a nice walk through the woods, then make sure you check out Box Canyon Falls.

An easy 0.3-mile walk is waiting for you, and in just 15 minutes, you can admire the natural beauty of the 285 feet high Box Canyon Falls for yourself.

Though the trail is open all year round, the best time to go is between May and November to enjoy mild-warm temperatures and avoid snow and ice along the way.

10. Zapata Falls

Though one of the lesser-known waterfalls Colorado has to offer visitors, Zapata Falls is a gem that deserves much more attention.

This secluded waterfall is 25 feet tall and is nestled among the rocks of the Sangre de Cristo Mountains.

The trail offers ample parking, so you don’t have to go on a trek before you even hit the walking path.

The hike itself is less than a mile long and is considered to be easy for most hikers to get through.

That means virtually anyone can enjoy the walk and the tranquility Zapata Falls can offer.