Cascade Falls Park Ouray Colorado
A breathtaking 270-foot waterfall in Ouray, Colorado, accessible via a short, steep hike with stunning mountain views.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Fewer crowds, better light
Cascade Falls Park Ouray Colorado
Best Time
Fewer crowds, better light
Highlights
Must-see attractions
A breathtaking 270-foot waterfall in Ouray, Colorado, accessible via a short, steep hike with stunning mountain views.
"Absolutely gorgeous! It's a steep hike but definitely worth it."
🚗 Trailhead Parking
Limited parking at the trailhead; consider parking on Main Street and walking if you have a large vehicle.
👟 Steep but Rewarding
The hike is short but steep. Wear sturdy shoes and be prepared for an uphill climb.
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
Cascade Falls
Cascade Falls Park
A stunning 270-foot waterfall cascading down the mountainside, offering a refreshing mist and incredible photo opportunities.
Perimeter Trail Views
Adjacent to Cascade Falls Park
A short hike up from the falls rewards you with panoramic views of Ouray and the surrounding San Juan Mountains.
Walking Behind the Falls
Base of Cascade Falls
Experience the power of the waterfall up close by venturing behind the cascading water for a unique perspective.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Timing is Everything
Beyond the Falls
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
🚗 Trailhead Parking
Limited parking at the trailhead; consider parking on Main Street and walking if you have a large vehicle.
👟 Steep but Rewarding
The hike is short but steep. Wear sturdy shoes and be prepared for an uphill climb.
📸 Capture the Mist
Protect your camera from the waterfall's mist, especially if you plan to walk behind it.
💧 Wade in the Creek
Enjoy the cool creek waters at the base of the falls on a warm day.
Tips
from all over the internet
🚗 Trailhead Parking
Limited parking at the trailhead; consider parking on Main Street and walking if you have a large vehicle.
👟 Steep but Rewarding
The hike is short but steep. Wear sturdy shoes and be prepared for an uphill climb.
📸 Capture the Mist
Protect your camera from the waterfall's mist, especially if you plan to walk behind it.
💧 Wade in the Creek
Enjoy the cool creek waters at the base of the falls on a warm day.
🐶 Dog-Friendly (with caveats)
Dogs are allowed, but be mindful of other visitors and clean up after your pet.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors consistently praise Cascade Falls for its stunning beauty and the rewarding, albeit steep, short hike. The ability to get close to the waterfall and enjoy the surrounding mountain views is a major draw. Some find it crowded, especially on weekends, and note the challenging parking situation for larger vehicles.
"Absolutely gorgeous!👌 it's a steep hike but definitely worth it. You can even walk behind the falls. And if you've made it that up there you might as well take a walk a ways on the perimeter trail and get some amazing views of ouray 😏"
Captain Davy
"Well worth the 10 minute walk up! There are lots of people and I’m guessing the view is even better later in the day due to the Sun’s position."
Liam Lewis
"Really pretty waterfall with an easy hike. There is parking at the base of the entrance (i would recommend this). we hiked it from the main street in town, and although doable, it is quite a steep clim to the base parking lot. You dont have to hike the trail to see the waterfall, before the entrance is a covered bench and some history of the town and falls, but if you would like to go to the falls it's a short and easy path."
Kayla Erickson
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
The trailhead is located at the east end of 8th Avenue in Ouray. Drive up 8th Ave, and the road dead ends at the Cascade Falls Park parking lot. 
Yes, there is a gravel parking lot at the trailhead. However, it's quite small and can be challenging for larger vehicles like campers or trailers.
Yes, you can walk from downtown Ouray. Be prepared for a steep climb to the trailhead parking lot.
The easiest access is via the parking lot at the end of 8th Avenue, which leads to a short, moderate trail.
Yes, there are restrooms available near the parking lot at the trailhead.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
No, there is no admission fee to visit Cascade Falls Park. It is a public park.
Cascade Falls Park is generally accessible year-round during daylight hours. However, it's always a good idea to check local conditions, especially during winter.
There is no entrance fee for Cascade Falls Park. Parking at the trailhead is also free.
While the park is accessible, the falls are not typically lit up at night, unlike some other locations named Cascade Falls. However, the experience of seeing the falls during the day is spectacular.
Parking at the Cascade Falls Park trailhead is free.
🎫 🏞️ Onsite Experience
The hike from the parking lot to the base of Cascade Falls is a short, approximately 0.25 to 0.5 miles, but it is steep.
The elevation gain is around 134 feet for the short hike to the falls. Some sources mention a moderate but short hike up behind the falls.
Yes, it is possible to walk behind the falls, offering a unique and immersive experience.
The hike is short but steep, so it's manageable for most, but beginners should be prepared for the incline.
You can connect to the Ouray Perimeter Trail from near Cascade Falls for more extensive hiking and incredible views of Ouray. +2
📸 📸 Photography
Early mornings or late afternoons offer softer light and fewer crowds, making them ideal for photography.
A wide-angle lens is great for capturing the scale of the waterfall. Consider a polarizing filter to manage reflections and enhance colors.
The base of the falls offers a direct view, and a short hike up the Perimeter Trail provides panoramic vistas of the falls and the town.
Use a lens hood and consider a rain cover for your camera. Wiping your lens frequently with a microfiber cloth is essential.
Experiment with low angles to emphasize the height of the falls and try capturing the mist for a dramatic effect.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
Consider bringing a change of clothes if kids want to play in the creek at the base. The nearby Ouray Hot Springs are also a fantastic family-friendly activity for a relaxing afternoon. For longer outings, the Ouray Perimeter Trail can be partially hiked with children, focusing on sections with easier terrain and rewarding views.
Pack plenty of snacks and water, as options can be limited once you leave the main town area. 💰 Budget Travelers
Combine your visit with other free or low-cost activities in Ouray, such as exploring the downtown shops, walking the Perimeter Trail, or simply enjoying the mountain scenery.
Many of the most memorable experiences in Ouray, like the stunning views and the refreshing waterfall, don't require an entry fee.❤️ Couples & Romantic Getaways
The short, steep hike can be a fun shared challenge. Consider extending your visit by exploring the charming town of Ouray, known for its 'Switzerland of America' ambiance.
Enjoy a meal at one of the local restaurants, perhaps with a reservation at Brickhouse 737. For a truly relaxing experience, the Ouray Hot Springs provide a perfect setting for couples to unwind together. Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
The Cascade Creek Water System
For those seeking a more challenging adventure, the trail continues beyond the main falls towards Upper Cascade Falls. This path is significantly steeper and leads to the historic Chief Ouray Mine, offering a glimpse into the region's mining past.
The journey to the upper falls is a rewarding extension for experienced hikers looking for more rugged terrain and historical context.Visitors often describe the water as ice cold, even in the summer, a testament to its mountain origins.
This refreshing aspect makes it a popular spot for cooling down, though caution is advised when wading in the creek. Navigating the Hike and Trail Conditions
Parking at the trailhead is a significant consideration. The lot is small and can be difficult to navigate, especially for larger vehicles like RVs or trailers.
Beyond the immediate falls, the Ouray Perimeter Trail offers a more extensive hiking experience. This 6-mile loop encircles the town and provides breathtaking panoramic views of the valley and the surrounding San Juan Mountains.
+1 Connecting to this trail from Cascade Falls allows visitors to extend their exploration and truly appreciate the 'Switzerland of America' moniker Ouray has earned. Ouray: The 'Switzerland of America'
Cascade Falls Park is a prime example of the natural beauty that draws visitors to this charming mountain town. The town itself offers a delightful experience with its historic architecture, unique shops, and excellent dining options. Beyond Cascade Falls, Ouray boasts several other natural attractions. Box Canyon Falls & Park is another must-visit, featuring a dramatic waterfall accessible via a short, paved path.
For ultimate relaxation, the Ouray Hot Springs provide a perfect way to unwind after a day of hiking and exploring. For the adventurous, jeep tours into the San Juan Mountains offer unparalleled access to rugged backcountry landscapes.
The Ouray Perimeter Trail, which can be accessed near Cascade Falls, is a popular choice for hikers seeking stunning vistas and a comprehensive tour of the area's natural splendor. +1
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