Hanging Lake Falls

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Hanging Lake is a beautiful sight, teal-green water below mountains and replenished by crystal-clear waters falling over the rock faces. It is not the height of the waterfalls that is impressive but the number of cascades of water, which vary by season. It is a tranquil place that even the sound of falling water does not interrupt. You have an uphill hike to get to the lake – certainly more than a couple of hours – but the effort is certainly worth it because you will have some great photographs to show your friends. Unfortunately, swimming is not permitted. Located in Glenwood Springs.

Treasure Falls

Lars Leber Photography

If you are driving along Highway 160 from South Fork on the way to Pagosa Springs, you will be able to see Treasure Falls. It is certainly worth stopping to get a closer look if you have time. You’ll find Treasure Falls at the foot of Wolf Creek Pass and can access it along a hiking trail. The water drops from 105 feet into Falls Creek to ultimately reach the San Juan River. The name comes from the legend that the mountain contains gold, which French invaders found in this Spanish territory in the late 18th century but only 2 of 300 returned to tell the tale.

Helen Hunt Falls

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Helen Hunt Falls in North Cheyenne Canon Park are fairly close to the parking lot. The trail goes on to a second falls known as Silver Falls. Because of its proximity to Colorado Springs, and because it is a beautiful setting, Helen Hunt Falls are fairly popular. Visitors come from late spring onwards, with the snowmelt meaning they are in full flood. There is a visitor center with videos and exhibits as well as a gift shop. Your dog is welcome if under your control and make sure you wear comfortable footwear.

Seven Falls

If you don’t want to hike up the 224 steps beside the Seven Falls, take the elevator. The drop is 181 feet in different segments and the views from the top over Colorado Springs and the surrounding area are spectacular. It was included in National Geographic’s list of waterfalls and some suggest it is the best piece of scenery in a very scenic state. They are lit at night in the summer and the Eagle’s Nest Lookout is a great place to take it all in. A restaurant is a fairly recent addition to the site.

Boulder Falls

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Boulder Falls have been a popular tourist destination since the 1800’s. Some of the trails closed a few years ago after serious floods and things have only just got back to normal, they are busy once more. It is worth getting there early in the day if you want a parking spot. There are warning signs to stick to the designated trails which stress that climbing is not permitted. Some of the rocks to the left of the falls near the viewing area are now being retained by wiring, so there are some issues.