Spring and early summer here in the Rocky Mountains bring in plentiful mountain run-off making our rivers, lakes, streams, and waterfalls more beautiful than ever. This is the best time of year to see the waterfalls in Rocky Mountain National Park at their best. While there are 31 named waterfalls inside the park, here is a list of our favorites to get you started!
Adams Falls
We’ll start off with the easiest, the hike to Adam Falls. At only 0.6 round trip, the hike to the falls is just as pretty as the falls themselves. Located at the western end of the park, near Grand Lake, the trail to Adams Falls takes hikers through a glacial valley following a rushing stream, all leading to a beautiful 55-foot waterfall.
Chasm Falls
Chasm Falls plunges only 25 feet, but its dramatic entrance through a narrow granite gorge is what makes this one so popular. If leaving from the EndoValley picnic area, the hike is 2.8 miles (round trip) to the falls. Or if you begin at the pull-out, it is only a 0.2-mile hike, great for children.
Alberta Falls
Alberta Falls is probably one of the most popular hikes to see waterfalls in Rocky Mountain National Park. The 1.2-mile round trip hike begins at the Glacier Gorge Trailhead, where it winds through a forest of pine and aspen leading to the scenic 30-foot plunging waterfall. This is also the perfect hike if you want to add on to Glacier Falls, The Loch, and Mills Lake.
Cascade Falls
Cascade Falls, as the name suggests, cascade down 100 feet of a granite wall of rock. The 6.8-mile round trip hike is the perfect moderate day hike. So, pack a picnic lunch and enjoy the peaceful sounds of the North Inlet Stream trickling alongside your hike.
Fern Falls
Fern Falls is a 60-foot waterfall that plunges into Fern Creek. The 5.6-mile round-trip hike begins at the Fern Lake Trailhead, following along the Big Thompson River to The Pool. Hikers will immediately recognize this area as it is the confluence of the Big Thompson River and Fern Creek. This is a great place to fish or plan a stop to enjoy a picnic lunch.
Copeland Falls
As one of the most accessible waterfalls in Rocky Mountain National Park, Copeland Falls is only a short 0.6-mile hike but with big rewards. First, you will spot Lower Copeland Falls and then continue on to see Upper Copeland Falls. And with only 15 feet in elevation gain, this is a perfect hike for the entire family!
Ouzel Falls
If you are looking to add on to your trip to see Copeland Falls, then continue your hike to Ouzel Falls. The 2.7-mile hike to Ouzel Falls leads hikers through beautiful scenery and the Calypso Cascades. The impressive 40-foot cascading waterfall plunging into Ouzel Creek is best observed by staying on the trail and viewing from the footbridge.
Stay at Valhalla Resort
Complete your Rocky Mountain adventures with a restful night at Valhalla Resort. Less than two miles from the main entrance to Rocky Mountain National Park, Valhalla Resort offers its guests some of the best accommodations for a rustic mountain retreat. Our rustic-style cabins are made to embrace the spirit of the old frontier and hold true to Estes Park’s beginnings, while still providing modern amenities for your comfort. We look forward to seeing you this summer!