Browns Creek Falls is an exhilarating day hike in Colorado’s Mountains.

Reach the end of the trail and you suddenly happen upon Browns Creek Falls, it’s that unexpected and incredible. Rushing white water thundering down from a rocky ledge high above. You’ll just have to hike to Browns Creek Falls and see for yourself!

 

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Note: Many of the links are affiliate links which means I receive a very small commission (at no added cost to you).

 

I’ve hiked this trail several times and today I am taking up 2  friends to show it off. They are both approaching 70 years and what an inspiration to be in their energy and enthusiasm. Along with their pups (5 of them!), this was an exceptional day.

 

 

VIEWS OF MT ANTERO

Quickly the hike becomes a moderate incline through a couple of switchbacks. Views of Mt. Antero appear through the pines as we climbed steadily higher.

 

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Only 1.5 miles to go to the Falls.

For a more challenging hike continue past Browns Creek Falls to Browns Lake. It’s a beauty and it’s a steep 3 more miles. Here’s a sneak peek “Browns Lake Hike” 

 

 

 

 

TRAIL LEVELS OFF

Not much farther and the trail levels off to a nice stroll through the forest. It’s easy peasy from here to the Falls. Perfect hike for families!

 

 

 

Opening up to a beautiful meadow with numerous dreamy dispersed campsites throughout the trees. And the views!

CLICK HERE> for a look at Practical Gear that we love at Crazy About Colorado and have in our backpacks on every hike.

 

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WATER CROSSINGS

A couple of bridge crossings add a little adventure. In one area (not pictured) the trail leads to the water, you can walk through the water but just to the right of the trail, you’ll find another bridge for a much easier crossing.

 

 

 

 

At the turn to the Falls, you’ll find a large tree stump. There once was an old signpost, then later a Rock Cairn to point the way and now it’s a large tree stump with the word Falls carved on it with an arrow. Turn left here. 

 

When hiking in Colorado a couple of items I always have with me to consider: Counter Assault Bear Bell, HART Outdoor Day Hike First Aid Kit, NUUN Sport Hydration Tablets, & Sawyer Mini Water Filter.

 

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BROWNS CREEK FALLS

Just a few more feet to go and tucked inside the canyon almost hidden is Browns Creek Falls in all its glory. We heard, “amazing” “whoa”, “spectacular” from various other hikers and backpackers.

 

 

Scramble over a few rocks and find your happy spot and enjoy.

I’d recommend this hike even if you are new to hiking and have acclimated to a higher elevation. It’s moderate in the beginning, but If you can do the first mile and a half then the rest is a stroll. You’ll be excited about the next hike you do…

TIDBITS

Rated: moderate

6.2 miles out and back

Trail #1429

Start at 8,990 ft, elevation, End at 9,830 ft

Open to: leashed dogs, horses, mountain bikes

No motorized vehicles

San Isabel National Forest

Dispersed camping allowed but not at the Trailhead

Fire restrictions common

Salida Ranger District

LOCATED

Near Nathrop, CO between Pancho Springs and Buena Vista, CO off of Hwy 285. Take CR 270 and head west for 1.5 miles. You’ll come to an intersection. Continue straight onto FR 272 for about 2 miles. You’ll enter the National Forest lands and continue another 2 miles. At the next intersection, turn left and travel south for 1.5 miles to the trailhead where you’ll find a large parking area and restroom.

NEARBY HIKES 

Ptramigan Lake Trail

Kronenke Lake Trail

Hartenstein Lake Trail

HIKES TO DO!

13 Rugged Alpine Lake Hikes

Colorado Hikes, 23 Awesome Trails

Drop a comment below for any questions. Share your adventures with me. I’d love to hear from you, HAPPY TRAILS…

Connect with me on Instagram! I enjoy hanging out there and leaving tidbits of trails I’ve hiked in Colorado. Follow me and say hi – send me a message! Follow other hikers and be inspired!


 

Note: Many of the links are affiliate links which means I receive a very small commission (at no added cost to you).