Whether you want an easy photo stop or a rewarding hike, there’s a Colorado waterfall for you. A few favorites:
Colorado waterfalls at a glance
| Tallest | Bridal Veil Falls, Telluride (~365 ft, free-falling) |
|---|---|
| Most famous | Hanging Lake, Glenwood Springs (permit required) |
| Easiest to reach | Fish Creek Falls (Steamboat), Rifle Falls, Seven Falls |
| Best season | Late May–June at peak snowmelt |
The Western Slope & I-70
Hanging Lake near Glenwood Springs is Colorado’s most photographed water feature — a turquoise travertine lake fed by waterfalls, reached by a steep 1.2-mile hike (a permit and shuttle are required in season). Nearby, Rifle Falls is a rare triple waterfall you can walk right up to.
The San Juans & southwest
Bridal Veil Falls above Telluride is the tallest free-falling waterfall in Colorado at about 365 feet. Around Ouray, Box Canyon Falls roars through a narrow slot and Cascade Falls drops right at the edge of town. Treasure Falls greets you near Pagosa Springs.
Northern & central Colorado
Fish Creek Falls near Steamboat is a short, family-friendly walk to a 280-foot cascade. In Rocky Mountain National Park, Alberta Falls and Ouzel Falls are rewarding hikes.
The Front Range & south
Near Colorado Springs, Seven Falls is a dramatic staircase of cascades and Helen Hunt Falls is an easy roadside stop. Down south, Zapata Falls near Great Sand Dunes hides in a slot canyon (expect a chilly wade to see it).
Tips for chasing waterfalls
Flow peaks with the snowmelt in late May and June, then tapers through summer. Start early to beat crowds and afternoon storms, wear grippy shoes (spray makes rocks slick), check current trail status and closures, and remember that popular spots like Hanging Lake require advance permits. Carry the day-hike essentials for the longer ones.
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What is the best waterfall in Colorado?
It depends on what you want. Hanging Lake near Glenwood Springs is the most famous and photogenic, Bridal Veil Falls above Telluride is the tallest, and Fish Creek Falls near Steamboat is one of the easiest to reach. All are spectacular in late spring and early summer.
What is the tallest waterfall in Colorado?
Bridal Veil Falls near Telluride, at roughly 365 feet, is the tallest free-falling waterfall in Colorado. A historic power station sits dramatically at its top.
When is the best time to see Colorado waterfalls?
Late May through June, during peak snowmelt, is when the waterfalls run fullest and most powerful. Flow tapers through the summer, so earlier in the season means bigger falls.
Do you need a permit for Hanging Lake?
Yes. Hanging Lake requires a permit, and in the busy season access is by a reserved shuttle rather than driving to the trailhead, since permits are limited to protect the fragile lake. Book in advance.