Here in Colorado, we’re fortunate to enjoy some of the most impressive natural wonders in the country. From towering mountaintops to dramatic canyons, there’s just no shortage of gorgeous landscapes to explore. Today’s road trip is one that will bring you a healthy dose of scenery. If ever you’ve wondered, “what are some waterfalls near me?” this trip will prove to be just the ticket. In addition to gorgeous Colorado waterfalls, the itinerary also takes you to fascinating caves. We think we’ve curated the perfect road trip, so hop in the car and treat yourself to some of the most impressive caves and waterfalls in Colorado! Before you leave on your adventure, be sure to use our ultimate road trip packing list to make trip preparation a breeze.

To customize the road trip further, check out the interactive Google Map of waterfalls in Colorado.

Google
1. Zapata Falls (Mosca)
Zapata Falls Trail, Colorado 81146, USA
Flickr/Nicolas Henderson
If you've ever asked yourself "what are some incredible waterfalls near me?" and you happen to be near Mosca, you're in luck! One of the most surprising attractions in all of Colorado is the massive Great Sand Dunes National Park and Preserve, but did you know that right down the street is one of the shortest and sweetest waterfall hikes? Welcome to Zapata Falls, a 25-foot-tall waterfall that is fed by the snowmelt from the San Juan Mountains and encompassed by surrounding rocks and cliffs. 
2. Seven Falls (Colorado Springs)
Seven Falls, 2350 S Cheyenne Canyon Rd, Colorado Springs, CO 80906, USA
Flickr/Tim Caynes
Considered to be one of the most beautiful waterfalls in the entire country, Seven Falls is a stunning stream that tumbles down 181 feet and makes for both an incredible hike and photo opportunity. In addition to the Falls themselves, Seven Falls also boasts a 224-step staircase and delicious on-site restaurant. Learn more about why everyone should visit Seven Falls in Colorado.
3. Cave of the Winds (Manitou Springs)
Cave of the Winds Road, Cave of the Winds Rd, Manitou Springs, CO, USA
Flickr/CaptSpaulding
One of the most fabulous amusement parks in the Centennial State is the Cave of the Winds, which is home to rides, incredible views, and - you guessed it! - a jaw-dropping cave! Opened to the public in 1881, the Cave of the Winds is comprised of 500-million-year-old tunnels and caverns, making for a must-visit attraction for the entire family. 

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4. Hanging Lake (Glenwood Springs)
Hanging Lake, 70 County Road 125, Glenwood Springs, CO 81601, USA
Flickr/Jack McLane
Haven't you seen the pristinely blue Hanging Lake and its dainty and delicate waterfalls before? Then you have yet to really see and experience Colorado! It's one of the most beautiful attractions in Colorado, so be sure to add it to your bucket list.
5. Glenwood Caverns Adventure Park (Glenwood Springs)
Glenwood Caverns Adventure Park, 51000 Two Rivers Plaza Road, Glenwood Springs, CO 81601, USA
Flickr/pychap
Named "One of the Top 10 Places to Go Underground" by USA Today, Glenwood Caverns is arguably the most iconic cave system in Colorado. Hiding away in Iron Mountain, Glenwood Caverns is home to 16,000 feet of caves, plus three different tours that range from family-friendly to heart-pounding and claustrophobic. Plus, it's home to the only mountain-top theme park in the country.
6. Yampah Spa & Vapor Caves (Glenwood Springs)
Yampah Spa & Salon, 709 E 6th St, Glenwood Springs, CO 81601, USA
Yampah Spa and Vapor Caves Facebook
After all that driving and exploring, it is time to take a break and treat yourself to some rest and relaxation...and what better place to do that than inside a vapor cave? Located just down the street from Glenwood Caverns, the Yampah Spa & Vapor Caves is housed inside actual cave chambers that utilize the warm mineral waters from a nearby hot spring. Learn more about planning your visit when you check out Yampah Spa online.
7. Rifle Falls State Park (Rifle)
Rifle Falls State Park, 5775 Highway 325, 10379 CO-325, Rifle, CO 81650, USA
Flickr/Michael Levine-Clark
Last but certainly not least on this great Colorado road trip is a quick stop at Rifle Falls State Park, where you can see not one, not two, but three side-by-side waterfalls from the comfort of your own car! (Do you need to get out and stretch your legs? There are plenty of places to hike at Rifle Falls, too!) When it comes to amazing waterfall hikes in Colorado, Rifle Falls State Park is a top contender.

We hope this road trip comes to mind the next time you’re searching “waterfalls near me” in Colorado. Are you looking for even more epic road trip ideas? Check out these below:

 

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More to Explore

Scenic Colorado

Beth C. | February 25, 2022

What are some of the most scenic drives in Colorado?

One of the best parts about living in a state as vast and beautiful as Colorado is that there is no shortage of gorgeous drives. One of the most striking is a stretch of Highway 82 known as Independence Pass. This route connects Twin Lakes to Aspen and has actually been recognized by Forbes Magazine as one of the most beautiful drives in the U.S. A majority of this drive reaches an elevation of over 12,000 feet.

Another famous drive in Colorado is known as Last Dollar Road. Located near Telluride, this humble dirt road boasts some of the best fall foliage views in autumn. It helps to have a vehicle equipped for all-terrain, as conditions can get bumpy.

A few other scenic drives in Colorado include:

  • Trail Ridge Road
  • Shrine Pass
  • Peak to Peak Scenic Byway
  • Collegiate Peaks
  • Guanella Pass
  • Million Dollar Highway
  • San Juan Skyway
  • Alpine Loop

 

For more information on these scenic drives in Colorado be sure to check out this article!

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