*All photos are protected by copyright and the property of Briana Nickas unless they are stock photos or otherwise noted.

Ahhh… waterfalls. The sound of rushing water, the mist in the air, the thrill of discovery. It doesn’t get much better than that! Whether you’re chasing that perfect Instagram shot or just need a nature fix, these 7 Colorado waterfalls are totally worth the adventure. 

Tucked between towering peaks and alpine trails are some of the most photogenic, soul-stirring waterfalls you’ll ever lay eyes on. Some are hidden gems, others are quick pit stops — but every single one is magic! 

From easy roadside views to family-friendly adventures to rewarding hikes, this list of epic waterfalls in Colorado has a little something for everyone with the perfect mix of iconic, secret, and jaw-dropping. Let’s chase ‘em!

📌 Pro Tip: Pin this Colorado waterfalls guide to save for your next road trip, and don’t be afraid to wander a little — you never know what hidden falls you’ll find. That’s how I found one of the beauties below!

The 7 Colorado Waterfalls Worth Chasing

Before we get to the Colorado waterfalls you’re going to want to see, let’s chat about when you should make the trip to see them. The best time of year to visit all of these falls is the spring during the run-off from snow melt. That’s when the water flow will be the highest! Okay, now that you won’t miss out on the peak time for raging falls, here are the waterfalls in Colorado to chase…

1. Rifle Falls – Rifle, CO

This one feels like you stepped into a storybook. Rifle Falls is actually a trio of 60-foot waterfalls cascading over a mossy limestone cliff, and the lush landscape is seriously photogenic. There’s a short loop trail that takes you to the base of the falls as well as behind the falls (yes, behind!) and even above them. There are also caves to explore. Easy access, high reward! If you’re road-tripping through western Colorado, this one’s a must-stop for the whole family!

📍 𝗟𝗼𝗰𝗮𝘁𝗶𝗼𝗻: Rifle Falls State Park at 5775 Highway 325, Rifle, CO 81650 roughly 13 miles from the I-70 and the town of Rifle
🎟️ 𝗙𝗲𝗲: $10 for a daily vehicle pass (bring cash unless you buy a pass online in advance)
⏰ 𝗛𝗼𝘂𝗿𝘀: 6:00am – 10:00pm
🚗 𝗣𝗮𝗿𝗸𝗶𝗻𝗴: limited, especially on weekends and holidays (arrive early to get a spot)
🐶 𝗗𝗼𝗴𝘀: Yes

Don’t miss: The early morning light here is pure magic for photos. 📸

➡️ Ready for the next stunner? This one’s got tropical vibes… in Colorado.

You may also like: How To Visit the Mind-Blowing Rifle Falls State Park (Colorado): Everything You Need to Know

2. Little Hawaii – Telluride, CO

Hidden in the lush canyons outside Telluride, Little Hawaii is as dreamy as it sounds. Tucked away off the popular Bear Creek Trail, this secluded spot has a jungle-like feel, with hanging plants, dripping moss-covered rocks, and a waterfall that feels like it belongs in the Pacific. It’s a bit of a local secret though, so keep it chill, tread lightly, and as always, leave no trace. After exploring Little Hawaii, go back the way you came and continue up the trail to the 80-foot Bear Creek Falls (4.5 miles roundtrip) for a 2-for-1 special!

📍 𝗟𝗼𝗰𝗮𝘁𝗶𝗼𝗻: Bear Creek Trail
🎟️ 𝗙𝗲𝗲: FREE
⏰ 𝗛𝗼𝘂𝗿𝘀: open year-round
🚗 𝗣𝗮𝗿𝗸𝗶𝗻𝗴: no parking at the trailhead, must find paid parking in town
🐶 𝗗𝗼𝗴𝘀: Yes

Prep Tip: Bring water shoes, you’ll have to trek through cold water and slippery rocks to reach the secret falls.

➡️ Think that was a vibe? Wait till you hit this rocky beauty up next.

You may also like: The Ultimate Colorado National Parks Road Trip Adventure: How To Explore All 4 Parks in 1 Week

3. Spouting Rock – Glenwood Springs, CO

Water blasting straight out of a cliff wall? Yes, please! Spouting Rock is just a short walk from the more famous Hanging Lake trail, and it’s totally worth the detour after the challenging hike. The waterfall literally gushes out of solid rock — it’s wild! You can walk all around it, even behind it, for some cool angles and a refreshing mist. While you’re there, be sure to check out Hanging Lake too! On a fun side note, I was featured in a Denver Post article about Hanging Lake!

📍 𝗟𝗼𝗰𝗮𝘁𝗶𝗼𝗻: the trail to Hanging Lake located at exit #125 on I-70 outside of Glenwood Springs (NOTE: There is no westbound exit for Hanging Lake. If traveling west on I-70, take the Grizzly Creek exit #121 and make a u-turn heading back east on I-70 to Hanging Lake exit #125. If traveling east on I-70, take exit #125.)
🎟️ 𝗙𝗲𝗲: $12 per person for a timed entry permit (required)
⏰ 𝗛𝗼𝘂𝗿𝘀: 7:00am – 5:00pm for timed entry
🚗 𝗣𝗮𝗿𝗸𝗶𝗻𝗴: there’s a parking lot at the Hanging Lake rest area (included with permit fee)
🐶 𝗗𝗼𝗴𝘀: No (other than classified service animals)

Quick tip: Pack a waterproof jacket or poncho if you’re planning to take photos up close!

➡️ From rocky drama to alpine serenity — this next one’s a hidden gem.

You may also like: Best Hiking Gear for Beginner Hikers: Everything You Need for a Day Hike

4. Lost Lake Trail Waterfall – Nederland, CO

This one’s a little more of a hike, but oh-so-worth it! Lost Lake Trail near Nederland leads you through wildflower-studded meadows and ends with alpine lake views — and yes, a gorgeous waterfall nearby. It’s a total postcard. The trail is moderate, about 4 miles round trip to the lake, and perfect if you want a full nature day. Pack a picnic, you’re going to want to stay awhile to soak the view in. You’ll have to keep your eyes and ears open for this one and venture off the trail a bit to find it.

📍 𝗟𝗼𝗰𝗮𝘁𝗶𝗼𝗻: Lost Lake via Hessie Trail
🎟️ 𝗙𝗲𝗲: FREE
⏰ 𝗛𝗼𝘂𝗿𝘀: open year-round
🚗 𝗣𝗮𝗿𝗸𝗶𝗻𝗴: limited street parking
🐶 𝗗𝗼𝗴𝘀: Yes

Insider vibe: Go in early fall for golden aspen views along the trail.

➡️ Now lets head south for a quick roadside surprise.

You may also like: Soak It Up: 6 Unforgettable Colorado Hot Springs You Need to Experience

5. Hays Creek Falls – Redstone, CO

This one’s a “blink-and-you’ll-miss-it.” Hays Creek Falls is right off Highway 133 near the artsy town of Redstone. You can literally pull over and snap a photo, or climb down a bit to get closer to the falls. It’s quick, easy, and seriously picturesque — perfect for road trippers who love spontaneous stops along scenic highways.

📍 𝗟𝗼𝗰𝗮𝘁𝗶𝗼𝗻: here on the side of Highway 133 just south of Redstone
🎟️ 𝗙𝗲𝗲: FREE
⏰ 𝗛𝗼𝘂𝗿𝘀: open year-round
🚗 𝗣𝗮𝗿𝗸𝗶𝗻𝗴: limited roadside parking spots
🐶 𝗗𝗼𝗴𝘀: Yes

Snap & Go: Great pit stop between Carbondale and Paonia.

➡️ From quick stops to full-on showstoppers… this next one is a beast.

You may also like: 45+ Road Trip Essentials You Need to Pack Before You Hit the Road

6. Fish Creek Falls – Steamboat Springs, CO

Towering at over 280 feet, Fish Creek Falls is one of Colorado’s most dramatic cascades. A wheelchair and stroller-friendly paved path with an overlook gets you a solid view of the lower falls within 1/4 mile. Or you can hike further up for closer looks and upper falls access. It’s especially jaw-dropping and powerful in spring when the snowmelt is gushing full force.

📍 𝗟𝗼𝗰𝗮𝘁𝗶𝗼𝗻: Fish Creek Falls is a short drive from downtown Steamboat at 34165 Fish Creek Falls Rd, Steamboat Springs, CO 80487
🎟️ 𝗙𝗲𝗲: $5 vehicle day use fee for parking
⏰ 𝗛𝗼𝘂𝗿𝘀: 6:00am – 10:00pm
🚗 𝗣𝗮𝗿𝗸𝗶𝗻𝗴: there’s a small paved parking lot at the trailhead (arrive early, this one gets popular, especially in summer)
🐶 𝗗𝗼𝗴𝘀: Yes

Pro tip: If you have time, take a sunset soak in Strawberry Park Hot Springs. You earned it. 😉

➡️ Ready to wrap this chase with a canyon waterfall that roars?

7. Box Cañon Falls – Ouray, CO

Tucked into the “Switzerland of America,” Box Cañon Falls in Ouray crashes through a narrow, dramatic canyon. It’s powerful, loud, and totally awe-inducing. There’s a short, family-friendly walk to the base and a metal staircase for views from above. Plus, the little town of Ouray is as charming as it gets.

📍 𝗟𝗼𝗰𝗮𝘁𝗶𝗼𝗻: Box Cañon Falls Park at 30 Box Canyon Rd, Ouray, CO 81427
🎟️ 𝗙𝗲𝗲: varies based on age (4- 17 years old: $5 | 18 – 62 years old: $7 | 62 – 74 years old: $6 | 75 and up or 3 and under: FREE)
⏰ 𝗛𝗼𝘂𝗿𝘀: varies based on time of year (May: 9:00am – 5:00pm | Memorial Day – Labor Day: 8:00am – 8:00pm | October: 9:00am – 5:00pm | November to March/April: CLOSED)
🚗 𝗣𝗮𝗿𝗸𝗶𝗻𝗴: there’s a parking area for the falls
🐶 𝗗𝗼𝗴𝘀: NO

Bonus points: Hit the Ouray hot springs pool after your waterfall fix.

You may also like: How To Visit the Stunning Shoshone Falls (Idaho): Everything You Need to Know

Wrapping Up 7 Colorado Waterfalls Worth Chasing

And there you have it — 7 Colorado waterfalls totally worth the chase. Whether you hit just one or check off the whole list, each one brings a little magic and a lot of mountain beauty. 

So pack your hiking boots, charge your phone (you’re gonna want those pics), and chase the wild water. Colorado’s waiting!

Share this post on Instagram with your waterfall-chasing besties!

💬 Before You Go…

Which Colorado waterfall’s at the top of your list? Drop a comment below — I love hearing your favorites!

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