Bear Creek Falls Trail is one of Telluride’s most popular hikes with an impressive, very scenic waterfall at the end. I loved this hike!
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A wide path winds through the 325 acre Bear Creek Preserve lined with Aspens, pines, and views of the high peaks ahead.
VIEWS BEFORE SUNRISE OVER THE PEAKS
We started the trail early in the morning before the sun rose above the peaks. It was chilly and crispy at the start as we went deeper into the canyon. I was hurrying down the trail to get to the sunshine but stopped often to take in the views. Gorgeous purple majestic mountains before us.
Quiet, no other hikers about, lots of birdsong and an occasional breeze,
The sun came sweeping over the peaks and filled the air with warmth. Off with the coat, the gloves, the hat! It’s summer feeling again in early September. Several trail runners passed us but otherwise, still very quiet. Getting closer to the falls you can hear the rushing waters up ahead as we hiked through the aspens & pines.
This is a popular trail, so do expect crowds especially in the summer months.
Our goal today is to keep going on the Wasatch Trail but could not resist going to see Bear Creek Falls first. Passing the signpost for Wasatch Trail we keep going straight and found ourselves scrambling over a few boulders while hiking a short narrow path to the Falls.
ARRIVING BEAR CREEK FALLS
What a sight to behold! It’s beautiful at 80 feet high. Took us by surprise at how stunning it was with the startling bold colors in the rocks. I can see why this is so popular in summer with water pools and mist at the bottom. Lots of room for everyone.
Not a hard hike to the Falls, but a hike that anyone will enjoy, avid, or beginner. New to Colorado, or visiting Colorado this trail would be perfect to acclimate to the altitude or spend a day with the kids. Would also be a great beginner snowshoe trail in the winter.
Want to keep going up the mountain?
Read more here, the Wasatch Trail Hike to Nellie Mine
LOCATED: At the end of Pine Street in downtown Telluride. No parking at the Trailhead. Limited parking on the streets nearby but they have a 3-hour limit with a fee. We found free parking at the Carhenge Lot on the southwest corner of town off of West Pacific Ave.
Walk a 1/2 mile from the free parking along the San Miguel River Path to the trailhead. This is a nice walk too!
TIDBITS
Rated: easy/moderate
5 mile out and back
Elevation gain: 1,100 ft
Open to leashed dogs, mountain bikes, horses
Family-friendly
No restrooms at the trailhead
Uncompahgre Wilderness
MORE HIKES YOU MIGHT ENJOY
Easy Trails in Colorado’s Wilderness
Hope Lake Trail, a Must Do Hike!
Ouray Perimeter Trail, is Full of Surprises!
Alpine Lakes Hikes, to Win Your Heart
Note: Many of the links are affiliate links which means I receive a very small commission (at no added cost to you).
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