waterfalls in Colorado
Nature enthusiasts are especially fond of the state due to its natural scenic features, especially the waterfalls in Colorado, some of the best in the United States. As great as Niagra Falls may be, there are many other places in the state, from the great big falls that can rival the sixth tallest in the world to the relatively unknown waterfalls visited by hikers in thick forests. In this article, let us guide you through a tour of 10 waterfalls in Colorado that will sweep you off your feet.
The Allure of Colorado’s Waterfalls
The features we can address are the sound of running water, cooler air humidity, and changing water flow patterns. From the tops of the colossal rockies to deep canyons and forested valleys, Colorado has an almost limitless number of waterfalls. Every single one of the ten waterfalls we will visit in Colorado has its own feel because it emerged in response to the geological and other conditions of the location and was subjected to the action of water that, in some cases, acts like a relentless sculptor for thousands of years.
Now, it is time to start our journey to explore these waterfalls in Colorado. Each waterfall offers a view of the state’s natural side.
1. Seven Falls
The Seven Falls are located in a box canyon beside Colorado Springs; they are a set of falls that measure 181 feet in total. This natural wonder is popularly called ‘The Grandest Mile of Scenery in Colorado.‘ The scenic drive ends with a view, albeit with 224 steps, enabling visitors to reach the falls. Alternatively, one can take a gondola to the eagle nest to have a bird’ s-eye view of the valley.
What sets Seven Falls apart from the waterfalls in Colorado that we are going to discuss is the fact that it is highly accessible and that there are facilities around it. It has also put up hiking trails and a restaurant, and another unique offer is lighting up the falls at night, giving the falls a wonderful look at night.
2. Bridal Veil Falls
Bridal Veil Falls drops free for 365 feet; therefore, it is the tallest free-falling waterfall in Colorado. This wonderful waterfall is situated at the end of the Box Canyon in Telluride and belongs to the most scenic waterfalls, irrespective of the season. Ice climbers climb on it in winter, and summer hikers marvel at the mist and many rainbows produced by falling water.
For this reason, in addition to the usual beauty of a waterfall, Bridal Veil Falls has a historic power plant located on its top. This particular park not only enriches the natural park with a view of history but also makes visitors think about how humans used these great falls.
3. Fish Creek Falls
When it comes to falls, one that is easily accessible is Fish Creek Falls, just a few miles down the road from Steamboat Springs. The waterfall has 280 gallons of water falling throughout the year. Lower falls are also easily accessible; there is a paved trail a short distance long that takes one to the viewpoint, making it one of the most easily viewed waterfalls in Colorado.
For those willing to make a longer trip, there’s a more strenuous path to the upper falls, which makes for more quiet and scenic views. Fish Creek Falls is another of the waterfalls in Colorado that we will be discussing, and it has the advantage of having both the lower falls that are easily accessible and the upper falls that are considered rather secluded.
4. Hanging Lake
As refreshing and delightful as a waterfall in a movie, perhaps Hanging Lake is technically not a true vertical waterfall, but no list of waterfalls in Colorado can afford to leave out this natural beauty. This lake deposits travertine and is supplied by several waterfalls, eventually forming a beautiful, serene blue-green body amidst a green backdrop.
The hike to Hanging Lake is quite steep and rather rigorous, but it is definitely worth the climb. The area around the lake is very sensitive and needs to be protected; therefore, the public must first apply for a permit to access this wonder. Thus, Hanging Lake is one of Colorado’s most unusual and restricted places.
5. Zapata Falls
Offering a contrast to the barren wilderness of much of Colorado, Zapata Falls is a short hike from the Great Sand Dunes National Park. This 30-foot waterfall’s basic structure is a cave-like setting, with water actually covering the first few feet of the falls when viewed at close range.
Still, it must be mentioned that Zapata Falls distinguishes itself from the other Colorado waterfalls that we will consider because of the contrast of the color with the surroundings. The combination of the falls, sand dunes, and a generic plain view of the desert is very interesting to behold.
6. Box Canyon Falls
Box Canyon Falls was used as the name of a place that was suggested to be in the United States, but it was later established that it was in Mexico. Box Canyon Falls will astound you with the strength of the water inside. Located right in the heart of Ouray, called the “Switzerland of America,” the cascade races through a tight and deep gorge. The Coconino Falls plunge to 285 feet, with the largest part of the free fall through a formed box canyon of 80 feet.
There are different vantage points from which to view the falls; tourists can cross a bridge over the gorge, and a trail takes you right into the falls. This makes Box Canyon Falls easily accessible and tremendously powerful among the waterfalls in Colorado.
7. Rifle Falls
This camping destination hosts one of the novel features of Rifle Falls State Park: Three independent water streams fall 70 feet over the limestone admirably. The flora that grows around the waterfall also receives the spray and water from the falls, making it grow and look more tropical-like.
The attraction that distinguishes Rifle Falls from other waterfalls in Colorado is the caving system behind and around the waterfall. Such waterfalls and cave formations provide nature lovers with many experiences to enjoy.
8. North Clear Creek Falls
Thus, if someone wants easy access to Colorado waterfalls, North Clear Creek Falls will fit perfectly. This river access is spur 2, though it is one hundred feet high. There is no way to hike to the bottom. It is located just off the Silver Thread Scenic Byway, but there is an overlook where you can view it. It is perfect for those who have little time or energy, for they will not have to climb down a single stair.
The waterfalls are most beautiful when the amount of water flowing in the river is high, usually during late May to early June when the snow melts. The water at North Clear Creek Falls is easily accessible and large, so it attracts a lot of visitors among the waterfalls in Colorado.
9. Treasure Falls
Treasurer Falls, a 105-foot waterfall, is nearby. The name derives from a local legend that asserts a treasure chest is buried there, east of Pagosa Springs. One can view the falls from the road and take pictures, but a simple hike brings even better views and some water droplets splashing on one’s face.
What makes Treasure Falls even more exceptional than the other waterfall in Colorado is its connection to local myths. The myth of buried treasure makes this already beautiful object even more interesting.
10. Alberta Falls
Alberta Falls Gem is a long and recognized name given to any park, particularly Rocky Mountain National Park in the United States. It is possible to walk to the falls, which is considered a moderate trail with a view of mountain chains. Alberta Falls is especially majestic. It presents the area of the Rockies with water flowing down through some large stones in the midst of a pine-aspen forest. Set in one of America’s favorite national parks, it is perfect for ending our pursuit of falls in Colorado.
Conclusion
At last, this tour of the 10 waterfalls in Colorado is finished, and it is evident that the nature of this state is truly amazing. These waterfalls are different: some can be seen from the car, and some require quite a hike. For this reason, these waterfalls come in so many types, each mimicking the type of terrain found in Colorado, from the rugged mountain terrain of the Rocky Mountains to the arid canyons of the southwestern part of Colorado.
It is not only the spectacular look of the 10 waterfalls in Colorado but also the way they let you feel like a human being as a part of nature. Speaking of sounds, the sound of the water, the feeling of mist on our skin, and the view of water flowing over the stones always keep us aware of the power of nature.
