
Box Canyon Falls Park Ouray Colorado
Experience a powerful 85-foot waterfall plunging into a narrow slot canyon, accessible via a unique catwalk. A must-see in Ouray, Colorado.

Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Fewer crowds, cooler temps

Box Canyon Falls Park Ouray Colorado
Best Time
Fewer crowds, cooler temps

Highlights
Must-see attractions
Experience a powerful 85-foot waterfall plunging into a narrow slot canyon, accessible via a unique catwalk. A must-see in Ouray, Colorado.
"The enclosed nature of the waterfall and sheer volume of water vibrates your whole body as you are able to observe very close to the waterfall."

🚗 Easy Access & Parking
Drive directly to the park entrance. Parking can be limited, especially on busy days.
💰 Admission Fee
Expect to pay around $7 per adult for entry. Discounts available for seniors and military.

Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

The Main Catwalk
Base of the falls
Walk through a narrow slot canyon to feel the mist and thunder of the powerful waterfall up close.

Upper Canyon Trail
Above the falls
Hike to the top for panoramic views of the canyon and the charming town of Ouray.

Nature Center
Park entrance
Learn about the unique geology and local flora and fauna of the Box Canyon area.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Beat the Crowds & Altitude
Admission & Accessibility
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
🚗 Easy Access & Parking
Drive directly to the park entrance. Parking can be limited, especially on busy days.
💰 Admission Fee
Expect to pay around $7 per adult for entry. Discounts available for seniors and military.
👟 Wear Sturdy Shoes
Trails can be rocky and wet. Comfortable, closed-toe shoes are a must for exploring.
💧 Embrace the Mist
Get ready to feel the spray! The catwalk brings you right to the base of the powerful falls.
Tips
from all over the internet
🚗 Easy Access & Parking
Drive directly to the park entrance. Parking can be limited, especially on busy days.
💰 Admission Fee
Expect to pay around $7 per adult for entry. Discounts available for seniors and military.
👟 Wear Sturdy Shoes
Trails can be rocky and wet. Comfortable, closed-toe shoes are a must for exploring.
💧 Embrace the Mist
Get ready to feel the spray! The catwalk brings you right to the base of the powerful falls.
🚫 No Dogs Allowed
Leave your furry friends at home; dogs are not permitted in the park.
📸 Capture the Magic
The unique canyon and waterfall offer incredible photo opportunities.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors consistently praise Box Canyon Falls for its dramatic beauty and immersive experience, with many calling it a 'must-see.' The ability to get so close to the powerful waterfall via the unique catwalk is a major highlight. Some find the upper trails challenging due to steepness and altitude, and the parking lot can fill up quickly.
"Amazing experience. The climb to the top of the falls was definitely very steep and rocky but great view! Definitely not super athletic and the first outdoor exercise we did in the altitude so it kicked our butt a bit on the way up. Down was not too bad, just navigating the rocks down.
Lower view of the falls definitely allows you to experience the powerful falls more directly. Easy to navigate. A fair number of steps down to the very bottom but you can get a get experience opting out of that if you want."
Heather Bder
"Cool location we stumbled on by chance. But we are sure glad we did.
We are on a motorcycle tour and we ride each day. And we look for cool “lunch” locations to have a picnic lunch.
In our search we found Box Canon Falls.
While it is not a picnic ground it is an Awsome natural water fall worth seeing.
There is a charge to get in. About $7 per person. There are discounts for seniors and military members.
There is an entrance with a gift shop and public bathrooms. And a water dispensing station.
One picnic table near the entrance where we sat. But you could find locations along the way. But not as convenient!
The falls are about a 5 minute walk from the entrance. There are two (2) walking loops.
One goes over the top and is roughly a 1/2 mile walk with a 200’ climb up and down. The other is a much shorter walk to the lower level of the falls. Also has steps and a large catwalk that takes you to the mouth of the falls and the pools at the base.
You can walk down steps to the base and feel the mist and touch the water
It’s quite beautiful and you can feel the power of the falls.
Well worth the money to see and you can certainly do both loops if you feel fit enough.
If you want the less strenuous walk. Go to the base of the falls. 5 minutes to get to the falls. Maybe 10 minutes out of walking.
As they say with steps. Going down is optional. Coming up is mandatory.
Enjoy!"
Mike Ropicky
"A can't miss experience. If you are anywhere near this beautiful canyon and magnificent waterfall, you have to go.
The enclosed nature of the water fall and sheer volume of water falling vibrates your whole body as you are able to observe very close to the waterfall. Definitely memorable."
Scott Smith
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
Box Canyon Falls Park is conveniently located just a short drive from downtown Ouray, Colorado. It's about a 5-minute drive from the town center. Many visitors access it via car, and there's a dedicated parking lot. For those exploring Ouray on foot, it's also accessible via the town's Perimeter Trail, offering a more scenic approach.
Yes, Box Canyon Falls Park is walkable from Ouray, especially if you're utilizing the town's extensive Perimeter Trail system. It's a great way to combine your visit with a longer hike and enjoy the surrounding scenery.
If you're staying in Ouray without a vehicle, you can walk to Box Canyon Falls Park. It's also a stop on some local shuttle routes or can be reached by taxi. The Perimeter Trail offers a beautiful walking route.
Box Canyon Falls in Ouray is approximately a 5.5 to 6-hour drive from Denver, Colorado. It's a significant journey, often part of a longer road trip through the state.
Box Canyon Falls Park is open year-round, but the parking lot may close during winter months due to snow. You can still access the falls by parking across the street and walking.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
The admission fee for Box Canyon Falls Park is typically around $7 per adult and $5 for children. Prices can vary slightly, so it's always good to check the official park information.
Advance booking is generally not required for Box Canyon Falls Park. You can purchase tickets upon arrival at the park entrance.
Yes, discounts are often available for seniors and military members. It's advisable to inquire at the entrance for current discount offerings.
Box Canyon Falls Park is typically open year-round. However, specific hours can vary seasonally, and the parking lot may close in winter. It's best to check the official park website or local tourism information for the most up-to-date hours.
Most likely, credit cards are accepted for admission fees, but it's always a good idea to have some cash on hand as a backup, especially in smaller parks or during off-peak times.
🎫 🏞️ Onsite Experience
The main attraction is the spectacular waterfall that plunges into a narrow, 1,250-foot box canyon. You can walk on a catwalk right up to the base of the falls to experience its power and mist.
A visit to Box Canyon Falls can be quite short if you focus on the main catwalk, perhaps 30 minutes to an hour. If you explore the upper trails and nature center, you could easily spend 1-2 hours.
The main catwalk to the base of the falls is relatively easy and short. However, the upper canyon trail involves steep, rocky climbs and steps, which can be challenging, especially at altitude.
While some sources mention a total drop of 285 feet, the visible portion of the waterfall is approximately 85 to 95 feet tall, plunging into a narrow slot canyon.
Swimming is generally not permitted in the immediate area of the falls due to the powerful currents and rocky terrain. The focus is on viewing the waterfall from designated paths.
🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining
Box Canyon Falls Park has a visitor center with restrooms and a water dispensing station. While there isn't a full restaurant, there is one picnic table near the entrance, and you might find other spots along the trails for a snack.
Ouray offers a variety of dining options, from casual cafes to breweries and restaurants. You can find places to eat before or after your visit to the falls.
There is one picnic table available near the entrance of Box Canyon Falls Park. While not an extensive picnic area, you can enjoy a meal there or find suitable spots along the trails if you pack your own.
Food truck availability can vary, but Ouray is a popular tourist town, so you might find some during peak season. It's best to check local listings or ask at the visitor center for current options.
Ouray offers typical mountain town fare, including American cuisine, burgers, pizza, and local specialties. You'll also find coffee shops and bakeries.
📸 📸 Photography
The main catwalk at the base of the falls offers dramatic shots with the water plunging into the narrow canyon. The upper trails provide panoramic views of the canyon and the town of Ouray.
The mist can be intense near the base of the falls, so protect your camera gear with a waterproof cover or lens cloth. Shooting from the catwalk can be challenging but rewarding.
Early morning or late afternoon often provides the best light for photography, with softer shadows and warmer tones. Midday sun can be harsh.
Drone usage is typically restricted in national and state parks to protect wildlife and visitor experience. It's best to check the park's specific regulations regarding drones before flying.
A wide-angle lens is great for capturing the scale of the canyon and falls. A sturdy tripod can help with low-light conditions. Don't forget a lens cloth for the mist!
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
While the upper trails can be steep and rocky, the nature center provides educational opportunities. Remember to bring water and snacks, and be mindful of the altitude. The $7 admission fee is reasonable for the experience. Ensure children are supervised closely, especially near the water's edge.
💰 Budget Travelers
To maximize your budget, consider packing your own picnic to enjoy at the designated picnic table or finding a scenic spot along the trails. Visiting during the shoulder seasons or on weekdays can also help avoid peak pricing for accommodations in Ouray.
🚶♀️ Hikers & Nature Enthusiasts
Nature enthusiasts will appreciate the unique geological formations and the chance to learn about the local ecosystem at the nature center. The surrounding San Juan Mountains provide endless opportunities for further exploration, from alpine lakes to challenging peaks.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
The Geology of Box Canyon
The surrounding area of Ouray is also known for its mineral-rich hot springs, a testament to the volcanic and geothermal activity that shaped this region. The vibrant colors and textures of the rock formations are a direct result of these geological processes. Visitors can learn more about this fascinating history at the park's nature center.
Experiencing the Falls: Trails and Views
For those seeking a more challenging adventure and different perspectives, the Upper Canyon Trail provides a more strenuous hike. This trail involves climbing steep, rocky paths and numerous steps, leading to viewpoints above the falls. From these vantage points, you can enjoy panoramic views of the canyon and the picturesque town of Ouray, often referred to as the "Switzerland of America."
There's also a Nature Center at the park entrance, offering insights into the local environment and geology. This is a great starting point to understand the natural forces that created this remarkable landscape before you embark on your exploration.
Ouray: The Switzerland of America
Beyond the falls, Ouray boasts attractions like the Million Dollar Highway, renowned for its breathtaking scenic drives and hairpin turns. Visitors can also enjoy the Ouray Hot Springs, relax in local breweries, or explore the numerous hiking trails that radiate from the town. Box Canyon Falls is often a highlight on a broader Ouray itinerary, complementing other activities like off-roading and visiting nearby alpine lakes.
The accessibility of Box Canyon Falls makes it an ideal stop for day-trippers and those on longer road trips through the San Juan Mountains. Its proximity to other attractions means you can easily combine a visit to the falls with other memorable experiences in this stunning corner of Colorado.
Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit