
Maxwell Falls Evergreen
A scenic hike near Evergreen, CO, leading to beautiful waterfalls through lush evergreen forests.

Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Avoid crowds, enjoy serenity

Maxwell Falls Evergreen
Best Time
Avoid crowds, enjoy serenity

Highlights
Must-see attractions
A scenic hike near Evergreen, CO, leading to beautiful waterfalls through lush evergreen forests.
"The hike to the falls is gorgeous, with lush forest and beautiful rock formations."

🗺️ Trail Navigation
Maps and signs can be tricky; ask locals or download offline maps. Some find the falls 'off the path' .
💧 Stay Hydrated
Bring at least two bottles of water, especially if you're not used to the elevation .

Quick Facts
Hours
Rating
4.5 · 849 reviews
Type
Hiking Area
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

Maxwell Falls
End of the main trails
The stunning cascades of Maxwell Falls, a rewarding sight after a scenic forest hike.

Maxwell Creek
Along the trails
Follow the babbling creek through lush forests, with opportunities for wildlife spotting.

Upper Maxwell Falls Trail
Trailhead near Evergreen
A shorter, kid-friendly 2.5-mile option with rewarding waterfall views and creek access.

Maxwell Falls Loop Trail
Trailhead near Evergreen
A 4.4-mile loop offering a more immersive forest experience and varied terrain.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Navigating Maxwell Falls Trails
Best Time to Visit for Scenery
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
🗺️ Trail Navigation
Maps and signs can be tricky; ask locals or download offline maps. Some find the falls 'off the path'.
💧 Stay Hydrated
Bring at least two bottles of water, especially if you're not used to the elevation.
👟 Wear Sturdy Shoes
Trails can be wet, muddy, and have roots/rocks. Waterproof boots are recommended.
🐶 Leash Your Dogs
Dogs are welcome but must be kept on a leash.
Tips
from all over the internet
🗺️ Trail Navigation
Maps and signs can be tricky; ask locals or download offline maps. Some find the falls 'off the path'.
💧 Stay Hydrated
Bring at least two bottles of water, especially if you're not used to the elevation.
👟 Wear Sturdy Shoes
Trails can be wet, muddy, and have roots/rocks. Waterproof boots are recommended.
🐶 Leash Your Dogs
Dogs are welcome but must be kept on a leash.
📸 Capture the Beauty
The forest and falls offer stunning photo opportunities year-round.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Maxwell Falls is a beloved natural gem offering beautiful waterfall views and a refreshing escape into nature. Visitors praise the stunning scenery, the sound of the creek, and the rewarding hike, especially on the shorter Upper Trail. However, some find the trail navigation challenging due to inconsistent signage and mention that the falls themselves can be a bit of a trek to reach.
"With better maps and signs, I would have given this trail 5 stars. We were saved by a super helpful man who drew us a map in the dirt, so we felt very thankful to find the falls after he warned us that they are a bit off the path. If you don't have much time and just want to see the falls, start at the Maxwell Falls trailhead further down the road. If you are a flatlander not used to elevation like me, take at least 2 bottles of water and snacks because there are some tiring uphill stretches. Gorgeous scenery and very nice people."
Kelly Drake Woodward
"Maxwell Falls Trailhead is an absolute gem! The hike to the falls is gorgeous, with lush forest, the sound of the creek, and beautiful rock formations. The falls themselves are absolutely stunning, and there are plenty of spots to relax and enjoy the view. It's a moderate hike, perfect for a day trip. Highly recommend!"
Sarita TrueBlood
"My first solo hiking trip and my mind was literally blown. The beauty and serenity of this. I went on a Thursday to avoid it being overcrowded and im in love with this place. It had a couple steep places but I loved it"
Jackie Norris
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
Maxwell Falls is located near Evergreen, Colorado, about 40 minutes from Denver. There are multiple trailheads, including the Maxwell Falls Trailhead, which is often recommended for a more direct route to the falls. Parking can be limited, especially on weekends.
Yes, parking is available at the trailheads, but it can fill up quickly, particularly during peak seasons and weekends. Arriving early is advised.
Public transportation options to Maxwell Falls are limited. It is generally recommended to drive to the trailhead. The closest major city with extensive public transport is Denver.
Some visitors have found the trail to the falls to be a bit off the main path and suggest asking locals for directions or downloading offline maps, as signage can be inconsistent.
The trails at Maxwell Falls are generally not wheelchair accessible due to the natural terrain, including rocks, roots, and inclines. The Upper Maxwell Falls Trail is noted as being more kid-friendly, but still requires walking.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
Maxwell Falls is located within the Arapaho & Roosevelt National Forests and generally does not require an entrance fee. However, parking may require a fee or a specific pass depending on the trailhead and season. It's always best to check current regulations before your visit.
As a natural area within a national forest, Maxwell Falls is typically open from dawn to dusk. There are no set operating hours, but it's advisable to plan your visit during daylight hours for safety and enjoyment.
Parking fees can vary. Some trailheads may require a fee or a recreation pass. It's recommended to check the U.S. Forest Service website for Arapaho & Roosevelt National Forests for the most up-to-date information on parking requirements and fees.
Yes, Maxwell Falls is a beautiful winter hike, offering views of frozen cascades. Be prepared for icy conditions and wear appropriate winter hiking gear.
Generally, no specific permits are required for day hiking at Maxwell Falls. However, if you plan on camping or engaging in other activities, you may need permits. Always check with the local ranger district for the latest information.
🎫 🧭 Onsite Experience
The Maxwell Falls hike is generally considered moderate. The 4.4-mile loop can be tiring with uphill stretches, while the Upper Maxwell Falls Trail is a shorter 2.5 miles and noted as kid-friendly. Be prepared for varied terrain with roots and rocks.
The 4.4-mile loop trail can take just over two hours, while the shorter 2.5-mile Upper Maxwell Falls Trail can be completed more quickly. Allow extra time for enjoying the scenery and the falls themselves.
Restroom facilities are typically limited at trailheads in national forests. It's advisable to use facilities before you arrive or be prepared for primitive conditions. Check with the local ranger district for specific trailhead amenities.
Yes, the Upper Maxwell Falls Trail is specifically mentioned as kid-friendly, offering a shorter hike with rewarding views. The 4.4-mile loop is also manageable for families with older children.
The trails wind through forests where you might spot wildlife. Some visitors have noted seeing squirrels and birds, and the area is known for potential wildlife sightings.
📸 📸 Photography
The waterfalls themselves are a primary subject. The creek, lush forest, and scenic valley views offer numerous picturesque opportunities throughout the hike.
Absolutely! Winter transforms Maxwell Falls with frozen cascades, creating a unique and beautiful scene for photographers.
Morning light can be beautiful for illuminating the forest and falls. Golden hour in the late afternoon can also provide stunning light, but be mindful of your return time before dusk.
Drone usage in national forests is subject to strict regulations. Generally, drones are prohibited in wilderness areas and near populated areas for safety and privacy reasons. Always check the latest FAA and U.S. Forest Service guidelines before flying.
The trails can be wet and muddy, requiring care with camera gear. Low light conditions within the dense forest can also be a factor, so a tripod might be useful for longer exposures.
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