
Bear Creek Falls
A breathtaking roadside waterfall on Colorado's Million Dollar Highway, offering stunning views and hiking opportunities.

Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Clear skies, vibrant green

Bear Creek Falls
Best Time
Clear skies, vibrant green

Highlights
Must-see attractions
A breathtaking roadside waterfall on Colorado's Million Dollar Highway, offering stunning views and hiking opportunities.
"This dramatic cascade plunges into the Uncompahgre Gorge, directly beneath a bridge on the highway, making it a must-see stop."

🚗 Pull Over Safely
Use designated pull-offs on the Million Dollar Highway to safely admire the falls. Don't stop in traffic!
🥾 Hike Beyond the Bridge
The Bear Creek Trail offers more intimate views of the falls and surrounding nature. Wear sturdy shoes!

Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

The Iconic Bridge View
Million Dollar Highway (US-550)
Witness the dramatic cascade plunging into the gorge directly beneath the highway bridge. A true roadside wonder!

Bear Creek Trail Hike
Trailhead near the falls
Embark on a moderate hike to discover multiple waterfalls and stunning canyon scenery. A must for nature lovers!

Frozen Winter Spectacle
Bear Creek Falls
In winter, the falls transform into an icy wonderland. Snowshoes may be needed for closer access to the frozen cascades .
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Timing is Everything
Beyond the Bridge
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
🚗 Pull Over Safely
Use designated pull-offs on the Million Dollar Highway to safely admire the falls. Don't stop in traffic!
🥾 Hike Beyond the Bridge
The Bear Creek Trail offers more intimate views of the falls and surrounding nature. Wear sturdy shoes!
❄️ Winter Wonders
Frozen falls are stunning, but check conditions. Snowshoes might be necessary for closer access.
📸 Drone Views
Capture unique perspectives with a drone, but be mindful of regulations and safety.
Tips
from all over the internet
🚗 Pull Over Safely
Use designated pull-offs on the Million Dollar Highway to safely admire the falls. Don't stop in traffic!
🥾 Hike Beyond the Bridge
The Bear Creek Trail offers more intimate views of the falls and surrounding nature. Wear sturdy shoes!
❄️ Winter Wonders
Frozen falls are stunning, but check conditions. Snowshoes might be necessary for closer access.
📸 Drone Views
Capture unique perspectives with a drone, but be mindful of regulations and safety.
💰 It's Free!
Enjoy the breathtaking beauty of Bear Creek Falls without any admission fees.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors consistently praise Bear Creek Falls for its stunning roadside accessibility and the sheer power of its cascade, making it a must-see on the Million Dollar Highway. While many enjoy the quick view from the bridge, those who venture onto the Bear Creek Trail find even more beauty. Some note that winter conditions can impact closer access, requiring preparation.
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
Bear Creek Falls is conveniently located just south of Ouray, Colorado, directly off the Million Dollar Highway (US-550). You can easily access it by car. If you're coming from Telluride, it's a scenic drive, and some off-road trails like Black Bear Pass can lead you near the area, though they are more challenging.
Yes, Bear Creek Falls is a roadside attraction accessible by car. The main viewing area is right off the highway, making it a quick and easy stop for most travelers.
The highway (Million Dollar Highway) is built over the gorge where Bear Creek Falls cascades down, so you drive over it, not directly through it. There are overlooks to stop and view the falls.
The Million Dollar Highway is a famous stretch of US-550 known for its stunning mountain scenery, steep grades, and hairpin turns. Bear Creek Falls is one of its many scenic highlights.
There are designated pull-offs and parking areas along the Million Dollar Highway near Bear Creek Falls, allowing visitors to safely stop and admire the view.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
No, Bear Creek Falls is completely free to visit! It's a natural roadside attraction, so no tickets or admission fees are required.
Bear Creek Falls is accessible year-round, 24 hours a day, as it's a natural outdoor attraction. However, daylight hours are best for viewing and hiking.
There is no entrance fee for Bear Creek Falls. Enjoy this beautiful Colorado waterfall at no cost!
While you can view the falls from the highway, the Bear Creek Trail offers a hiking experience to get closer to the cascades and explore the surrounding area. Access to the frozen falls in winter might require snowshoes.
Yes, Bear Creek Falls is an outdoor natural attraction and is open year-round. However, winter conditions can affect accessibility and the appearance of the falls.
🎫 🏞️ Onsite Experience
You can admire the impressive waterfall from the highway overlook, take photos, and for a more adventurous experience, hike the Bear Creek Trail to see more cascades and enjoy the San Juan Mountains.
Viewing the falls from the roadside takes just a few minutes. If you plan to hike the Bear Creek Trail, allow at least 1-2 hours depending on your pace and how far you explore.
The roadside view is easily accessible for families. The Bear Creek Trail is moderate and may be suitable for older children who are comfortable with hiking. Always supervise children closely.
For roadside viewing, casual wear is fine. If hiking the Bear Creek Trail, wear comfortable hiking shoes or boots, layers of clothing, and bring water. In winter, warm, waterproof gear and possibly snowshoes are recommended.
Restroom facilities are not typically available directly at the Bear Creek Falls overlook. It's advisable to use facilities in nearby Ouray before or after your visit.
📸 📸 Photography
Mid-morning or late afternoon often provides the best light for photography, minimizing harsh shadows. Golden hour during sunrise or sunset can also yield dramatic shots.
Drones can offer unique perspectives, as seen in some content. However, always check current FAA regulations and local restrictions regarding drone usage in national forests and near protected areas before flying.
A wide-angle lens is great for capturing the scale of the falls and the surrounding gorge. A tripod can be useful for longer exposures, especially in lower light or to smooth out the water's movement.
The bridge itself offers a dramatic perspective. The Bear Creek Trail provides various vantage points as you ascend, allowing you to frame the falls against the canyon walls.
Capturing the sheer power of the water as it plunges into the gorge from the bridge is a classic shot. Hiking the trail offers opportunities to photograph smaller cascades and the lush vegetation.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
🚗 Road Trippers & Day-Trippers
📸 Photographers & Content Creators
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge


Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit