Colorado is home to some of the most beautiful natural wonders in the world, so it stands to reason that it would also offer astounding waterfalls. From elegant cascades to rushing gorges, the following are easily considered among the best waterfalls in Colorado. Some require a bit of hiking while others can be enjoyed right from the road. One thing’s for sure: you’ll definitely want to bring your camera with you when you tour these epic waterfalls in the Centennial State.

Ready to start exploring?

1. North Clear Creek Falls
North Clear Creek Falls, Colorado 81130, USA
Larry Lamsa/Flickr
North Clear Creek Falls is a powerful, dramatic waterfall located in Hinsdale County. What makes this waterfall particularly memorable is the fact that it flows over Nelson Mountain tuff, which is solidified ash formed when a volcano erupted over 27 million years ago. You can learn more about one of the most majestic waterfalls in Colorado on the U.S. Forest Service website.
2. Treasure Falls
Treasure Falls, Colorado 81147, USA
Nate Loper / flickr
Just 15 miles northeast of Pagosa Springs, Treasure Falls is one of the easiest-to-access Colorado waterfalls that will impress just about anyone. A relatively easy half-mile hike will take you to the base of this 105-foot waterfall. Curious about the origin of the name Treasure Falls? Legend has it that there is a chest of treasure buried nearby. Of course, the spectacular scenery itself is reward enough for venturing to this beautiful Colorado landmark.
3. Fish Creek Falls
Fish Creek Falls, Colorado 80487, USA
Simon Foot / flickr
If you should find yourself in Steamboat Springs, Colorado, visiting Fish Creek Falls is an absolute must. This magnificent 280-foot waterfall is sure to inspire an appreciation of the great outdoors. The sight and sound of this rushing gorge is one that's hard to describe and must simply be experienced in person. This waterfall is also wheelchair accessible via a half-mile paved trail from the parking area. Head to the Steamboat Springs website to learn more about this impressive waterfall.
4. Hanging Lake
Hanging Lake, Colorado 81601, USA
enjoiskate8 / flickr
Unlike some of Colorado's most famous waterfalls, Hanging Lake isn't known for its size or volume but rather for the emerald pool of water. Located in Glenwood Springs, this breathtaking natural attraction is possible to visit only with a hiking permit. For more information on this, head to the Visit Glenwood website.
5. Bridal Veil Falls
Mark Wilson / 500Px Plus / Getty Images
Bridal Veil Falls, Colorado 81426, USA
Brad McGinley Photography / Moment via Getty Images
Bridal Veil Falls in Telluride is easily one of the most beautiful waterfalls in Colorado. Towering at 365 feet, it's the tallest free-fall waterfall in the state. There's a hydroelectric power plant located at the top of the falls. Amazingly, the waterfall can freeze over during winter and poses a unique challenge to daring intrepid ice climbers.

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6. Helen Hunt Falls
Helen Hunt Falls, Colorado 80906, USA
Mel Marr / flickr
Located in North Cheyenne Canon Park, Helen Hunt Falls can be accessed via a short walk from the parking area. The waterfall measures 35 feet and can also be enjoyed as part of the 4-mile Columbine Trail.
7. Rifle Falls State Park
Rifle Falls State Park, 5775 Highway 325, 10379 CO-325, Rifle, CO 81650, USA
Flickr/iriskh
There's a reason an entire state park is named after Rifle Falls. This triple 70-foot waterfall flows over a travertine dam and is one of the most beautiful of all Colorado waterfalls. Explore the park's many hiking trails and recreational opportunities and keep your eyes open for beautiful wildlife such as elk, deer, and possibly some coyotes.
8. Zapata Falls
Zapata Falls, Colorado 81146, USA
XenonofArcticus/Wikimedia Commons
Tucked away in south-central Colorado, Zapata Falls is definitely a hidden gem. It's located near the Great Sand Dunes and can be accessed via a scenic 1-mile hike. Zapata Falls is surrounded by dune fields and tundra and thus a welcome change of scenery from the dry landscape.
9. Judd Falls
Judd Falls, Colorado 81611, USA
Roberto Perez Maldonado / 500px Prime viaGetty Images
Judd Falls is a beautiful waterfall located just outside of Crested Butte. Getting there means a scenic hike through the woods complete with wildflowers in the summer and views of Gothic Mountain year-round. It's the perfect destination for those who wish to experience a classic Colorado trail without committing an entire day outside. Visit the Travel Crested Butte website to learn more.
10. Alberta Falls
Alberta Falls, Colorado 80517, USA
Jay Mayne / EyeEm via Getty Images
Alberta Falls is among the most popular destinations in Rocky Mountain National Park. Though the waterfall measures just 30 feet, the spectacle of Glacier Creek rushing down the gorge makes for a simply unforgettable impression. This trail can be busy at times, so be sure to plan accordingly. It's certainly one of the most incredible waterfalls in Colorado.
11. Waterfall at Crystal Mill
Crystal Mill, 11520 Co Rd 3, Carbondale, CO 81623, USA
Brad McGinley Photography / Moment viaGetty Images
Crystal Mill is one of the most photographed places in Colorado yet it's not entirely easy to access. Located at the end of a 4x4 route, this wooden powerhouse from 1892 sits atop a breathtaking waterfall along the Crystal River.

Do you agree that these 11 spots are among the best waterfalls in Colorado? Are there any that you would add to the list? Be sure to join in on the conversation by leaving a comment below!

Curious to learn more about the most beautiful places in Colorado? Check out this list of hidden gems just waiting for you to explore!

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More to Explore

Best Waterfalls in Colorado

Beth C. | June 18, 2020

What are the best waterfall hikes in Colorado?

Some of the best waterfall hikes in Colorado include:

  • Hanging Lake
  • Zapata Falls
  • Rifle Falls
  • Jasper Creek Waterfall
  • Bridal Veil Falls.

 

Truly, you can't go wrong with any of Colorado's incredible waterfall hikes. If you're looking for more inspiration, check out the best waterfall hikes in Colorado.

Are there any good swimming holes in Colorado?

Yes, there are many good swimming holes in Colorado including:

  • Devil's Punch Bowl
  • Boulder Creek
  • Paradise Cove
  • Big Dominguez Canyon
  • Pacific Tarn
  • Lost Man Lake
  • Mystic Island Lake.

 

Check out this list of the best swimming holes in Colorado for more information.

Are there any suspension bridges in Colorado?

Yes, there are suspension bridges in Colorado. In fact, the state offers an impressive selection of bridges to visit. One of the most memorable is a suspension bridge that's been deemed among the most intimidating in the world. That's because it spans the Royal Gorge at 956 feet above the Arkansas River. Not to mention it's 1,270 long, meaning it takes more than a few steps to cross.

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