Treasure Falls Colorado
A stunning 105-foot waterfall in Colorado, easily accessible from Highway 160 with a short, rewarding hike.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Water flow is strongest
Treasure Falls Colorado
Best Time
Water flow is strongest
Highlights
Must-see attractions
A stunning 105-foot waterfall in Colorado, easily accessible from Highway 160 with a short, rewarding hike.
"This 105' waterfall is impressive. You have about a 1/4 mile trek to the falls that was rocky and an elevation gain of over 300'."
👟 Wear Sturdy Shoes
The trail can be slippery and steep, especially near the falls. Proper traction is key!
🚗 Easy Roadside Stop
Conveniently located right off Highway 160, making it a perfect pit stop.
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
The Roaring Cascade
Base of the falls
Witness the impressive 105-foot waterfall up close, feeling the mist and hearing its powerful roar.
Misty Deck Overlook
Trail to the falls
Get a refreshing spray and a dramatic perspective of the falls from this viewpoint.
Frozen Winter Wonder
Waterfall area
Experience the unique beauty of Treasure Falls when it freezes over in winter.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Easy Access, Big Reward
Timing is Everything
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
👟 Wear Sturdy Shoes
The trail can be slippery and steep, especially near the falls. Proper traction is key! 
🚗 Easy Roadside Stop
Conveniently located right off Highway 160, making it a perfect pit stop.
📸 Multiple Viewpoints
Enjoy views from the parking lot, a halfway point, and the base of the falls.
💧 Prepare for Mist
You'll likely get misted, especially at the Misty Deck. Embrace it!
Tips
from all over the internet
👟 Wear Sturdy Shoes
The trail can be slippery and steep, especially near the falls. Proper traction is key!
🚗 Easy Roadside Stop
Conveniently located right off Highway 160, making it a perfect pit stop.
📸 Multiple Viewpoints
Enjoy views from the parking lot, a halfway point, and the base of the falls.
💧 Prepare for Mist
You'll likely get misted, especially at the Misty Deck. Embrace it!
🐶 Dog-Friendly Trail
Leashed dogs are welcome on the trail, making it great for furry friends.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors consistently praise Treasure Falls for its impressive beauty and easy accessibility, calling it a 'must-see' and a 'wonderful falls.' The short hike to get closer is well worth the effort for many, though some note it can be steep and slippery. The frozen falls in winter are also a highlight for those who visit during that season.
"Wonderful falls! This 105’ waterfall is impressive. You have about a 1/4 mile trek to the falls that was rocky and an elevation gain of over 300’. They had 3 different views. A handicap parking lot level and a half way view and then the top view at the base of the falls."
DElightful Photography
"Beautiful waterfall. You can see this from the lot, for those unable to make the way up. A short uphill, relative easy hike for gorgeous view!"
Becki Shaufler
"The hike is well worth it. It’s a must see. My husband’s granny made the hike with us so it’s doable for most people."
Grace Petty
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
Treasure Falls is located east of Pagosa Springs, Colorado, directly off Highway 160 on Wolf Creek Pass. It's a very accessible stop, often visible from the highway.
Yes, the parking area is well-marked and situated right off the highway, making it easy to spot.
The drive along Highway 160, especially on Wolf Creek Pass, offers scenic mountain views. Be mindful of weather conditions, particularly in winter.
Yes, Treasure Falls can be visited in winter, often presenting a beautiful frozen spectacle. However, always check road conditions for Wolf Creek Pass before you go.
Absolutely! It's a perfect, quick stop for stretching your legs and enjoying a natural wonder without a long detour.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
No, Treasure Falls is free to visit. It's a public access point within the San Juan National Forest.
Treasure Falls is accessible year-round during daylight hours. There are no set operating hours as it's an outdoor natural attraction.
No advance booking is necessary. Treasure Falls is a free, open-access natural attraction.
Parking at the Treasure Falls trailhead is typically free.
Yes, there is a handicap-accessible parking lot and a level viewing area that allows you to see the falls from a distance without hiking.
🎫 🏞️ Onsite Experience
The main trail to get closer to the falls is about a 1/4 mile (0.25 miles) round trip, with some elevation gain.
The hike involves approximately 200-300 feet of elevation gain, making it a short but somewhat steep climb.
Wear comfortable, sturdy shoes with good traction, as the trail can be rocky and slippery. Layers are recommended due to changing mountain weather.
Yes, you can get quite close to the base of the falls via the trail, where you'll experience the mist and the full power of the water.
The accessible viewpoint from the parking lot is great for all ages. The main trail is short but steep, so it might be challenging for very young children or those with mobility issues, but many families manage it.
📸 📸 Photography Tips
Morning light can be beautiful, but the falls are impressive throughout the day. Consider late afternoon for softer light if you're aiming for golden hour.
A wide-angle lens is great for capturing the full height of the falls. A polarizing filter can help manage reflections and enhance colors. Bring a rain cover for your camera due to the mist.
Try capturing the mist rising from the falls, the surrounding lush greenery, or the dramatic frozen formations in winter.
Drone usage is subject to San Juan National Forest regulations. Check current FAA and forest service rules before flying.
Experiment with shots from the accessible viewpoint, the trail leading up, and the base of the falls for varied perspectives.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
+1 Just be sure to bring sturdy shoes for everyone, as the trail can be a bit challenging. It's a great way to break up a road trip with a dose of natural wonder.🚗 Road Trippers
+1 You can easily spot it from the parking lot, making it a perfect spot to stretch your legs, take photos, and experience a bit of Colorado's natural beauty without straying far from your route. Consider it a must-do stop between Pagosa Springs and South Fork. 📸 Photographers
+1 The surrounding San Juan National Forest provides a beautiful natural frame, especially during autumn foliage. Remember to protect your gear from the mist and consider a tripod for longer exposures, particularly in lower light conditions. Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
The Legend of Treasure Falls
This 105-foot waterfall is a significant landmark along the Silver Thread Scenic Byway, drawing visitors with its impressive height and accessibility. The San Juan National Forest surrounding the falls provides a stunning backdrop, making it a popular stop for road-trippers and nature enthusiasts alike.
The accessibility, combined with the intriguing history, makes Treasure Falls a unique destination in Southern Colorado.Navigating the Trails and Views
For a more immersive experience, a short but steep trail leads closer to the base of the waterfall. This approximately 0.25-mile hike involves around 200-300 feet of elevation gain and can be rocky and slippery, especially after rain or snow.
+2 Sturdy footwear with good traction is highly recommended. +1 Along this trail, you'll find various viewpoints, including the 'Misty Deck,' where the spray from the powerful cascade can reach you. Seasonal Spectacles at Treasure Falls
The surrounding San Juan Mountains are lush and green, providing a vibrant setting. Autumn brings a different kind of beauty, with the changing foliage painting the landscape in warm hues. The cooler temperatures make for pleasant hiking conditions.
Winter offers a truly magical sight: the falls freeze into stunning ice formations. 
Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit