Rifle Falls State Park is small yet offers much more than expected. From caves & caverns to crawl through to a triple waterfall to hiking trails along the creek, it’s a hidden unique paradise. A hidden gem and a total surprise just 14 miles from Rifle, CO.
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HEADING TO THE TOP OF THE FALLS
We can hear the Falls, thundering down as soon as we stepped out of the car. Finding a trail leading us into the unusual limestone rocks, instead of heading to the Falls, we ended up on top of them. Don’t miss this, it’s beautiful from above and has several overlooks.
Hiking along a well-trodden trail we assumed we were heading back down to the other side of the falls. The roar of the falls is continuous, yet we haven’t seen them yet.
We are on Coyote Trail, 1.5 miles – winds past the base of the falls and caves and then looping back above the falls. We passed Bobcat Trail Signpost on Coyote Trail which takes you to the Rifle Falls State Fish Hatchery. 1 mile out and back.
Still venturing in and out of caves, some requiring getting on our hands and knees it’s taking us forever to hike this short trail!
A headlamp or flashlight would be an item to consider bringing.
RIFLE FALLS APPEARS
One last cavern and the Falls! Three powerful waterfalls cascading down, spraying mist across moss-covered rocks into the lush green foliage and a pool of water before heading down Rifle Creek to Rifle Gap Lake. Breathtaking really. It’s hard to keep your eyes off of it.
We explored every angle and found stairs to the left of the falls that lead upward and behind the Falls. It’s like being a little kid in an amusement park, yet it’s all nature.
Found more caves and caverns before heading to the last trail on Rifle Falls Trail Map.
TIME TO HIKE OUR LAST TRAIL
One more trail to go, Squirrel Trail 1.5 miles. This one first leading us through the tent-sites campground which had beautiful camping spots tucked in the trees as we hiking alongside Rifle Creek.
Hiked through a thick Gambel Oak forest up an area of rocky terrain to views and ended with a pleasant long walk on a wide flat path along the Grass Valley Canal.
NOTE: You can head straight to the Falls then head out on all the trails if desired. It’s ADA accessible to the Falls.
Took us 2.5 hours to discover all the park has to offer. With kids, you might be here all day! If in Glenwood Springs or heading to or from Grand Junction I highly recommend taking the time to check out Rifle Falls State Park. If visiting Colorado, put this on your list!
LOCATED: 5775 Highway 325, Rifle, CO 81650
Open Year Round
Hiking: RIfle Falls Trail Map
Fees at Entrance
Restrooms
Bring water and food, no amneties in the Park
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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).
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