Rifle Falls State Park is located in Rifle, Colorado and is home to the beautiful Rifle Falls waterfall. This 70-foot triple cascade waterfall is a sight to behold as it plunges into a large pool below. The scenic falls are surrounded by forest and rock formations that add to its beauty and grandeur.
Details about Rifle Falls
Overlooks are available from both sides of the falls, allowing visitors to take in the beauty of this natural wonder. The first waterfall drops over 70 feet into a large pool below, while two smaller ones follow right after it with shorter drops but still plenty of power behind them.The falls are created by the confluence of two small streams which tumble down from an elevation of 6,800 feet into a deep pool below.
Rifle Mountain Park offers several trails for hikers of all skill levels so visitors can explore the area surrounding the falls. From these trails one can also view other natural wonders such as caves, hoodoos, wildflowers, wildlife, and more! It’s easy to spend hours exploring this magical place with its unique geological features.
Anglers will find plenty of trout in Rifle Creek. Camping options are also available and include both RV sites with hookups and primitive tent camping sites scattered throughout the grounds.
Hiking trails around Rifle Falls
Canyon Trail – This trail winds through Rifle Creek Canyon and provides views of the falls from various overlooks as well as access to several fishing spots along the creek.
Cave Trail – This trail leads to two natural limestone caves that are open for exploration by visitors.
Homestead Trail – This easy 0.5-mile loop takes hikers past the old homestead of early settlers who lived at Rifle Falls in the late 1800s and early 1900s.
Rim Rock Nature Trail – A 1-mile loop with interpretive signs that highlight local flora, fauna, geology, archeology, history and more!
Camping in Rifle Falls
The park features three campgrounds – Rifle Falls North, South and East. All sites are equipped with picnic tables, fire pits and grills for cooking. Camping at Rifle Falls is the perfect way to explore the stunning natural beauty that this area offers. The campgrounds offer RV and tent camping options with both electric and non-electric hookups available depending on your needs. There are also some primitive sites if you’re looking for a more rustic experience.
Each site has its own unique view of the Rifle falls or nearby mountain peaks so you can find a spot that suits your preferences perfectly!
Directions to Rifle Falls
Address: 13885 Co Rd 217, Rifle, Colorado 81650
From Denver – Map
To get to the park from Interstate 70, take Exit 90 onto Highway 13 south for about 5 miles. Turn right onto County Road 234 and follow it for 6 miles until you reach the entrance of the park.
Once inside the park, keep driving straight on County Road 234 until you come to a split in the road where County Road 234 turns left and becomes West Rifle Creek Road. Follow this road until you see signs directing you toward Rifle Falls State Park (about 4 miles). Turn left at these signs; then turn right into an unpaved parking lot after another mile or so.
From there, head east along a trail that will lead directly to Rifle Falls. The falls are visible from anywhere near them. However, if you would like closer access to explore behind and around them, continue east down a steep hillside with plenty of switchbacks leading up towards the base of the waterfall.
Check out our Map of Colorado waterfalls for other amazing natural attractions to enjoy.
Diamond Creek Falls