

However, once you’ve made the 12 mile hike, you’ll see why it’s one of the best. Elk Falls – ConiferĮlk Falls in Conifer is one of the closest waterfalls to Denver, but that doesn’t mean it’s easy to reach as the hike itself is fairly long and difficult. Both the upper and lower trailheads additionally provide access to loop trails that add a bit of length to your hike but also will take you to the waterfall. The Upper trailhead offers the shortest hike, a 0.8 mile walk, one way, directly to the falls. Both are easy to find with GPS navigation. There are two trailheads, aptly named the Upper and Lower Maxwell Falls Trailheads. The trailhead for Maxwell Falls requires about a 50 minute drive from Denver to reach. Even though the trail is popular, it’s easy to make a wrong turn as several unmarked trails split off from the main one, so pay close attention as you hike. Dogs are allowed on the trail, but must be kept leashed. This hike is a very popular waterfall hike near Denver, so it’s advisable to get started early in the day if you want to enjoy the hike in relative peace. There are several routes to the falls ranging from 0.8 to 4 miles round trip. It’s best to come here in the late spring and early summer when the tiered waterfall has the most water flow. Maxwell Falls near the town of Evergreen is a popular day trip from Denver. Maxwell Falls – Evergreen Maxwell Falls in Evergreen. Park here and find the paved trail that takes you under I-70 and you can’t miss the waterfall on this short loop. There is a big parking area behind the historic district, sandwiched between I-70 and downtown.

Take I-70 west from Denver to Idaho Springs.

The Charlie Tayler Water Wheel is located about 40 minutes drive from Denver, requiring a simple 10 minute hike.
#Falcon colorado scenery how to
How to get to Charlie Tayler Water Wheel: Bridal Veil Falls thunders down into Clear Creek throughout the spring, summer and fall, before freezing in the winter. He generated power with the wheel to fuel his gold mill for his claim on Ute Creek. Story says he lived until 94 because he never kissed girls or took baths. The Charlie Tayler Water Wheel was built in 1893, by a local miner by the same name. There are two places to cross under I-70 (it’s a loop) and both take you past this wonderful water wheel and waterfall. It leads under the highway to the opposite side. However, it’s only a short walk south, toward I-70 from downtown and you’ll reach a paved trail. It’s quite hidden from those bustling streets of the historic district. This one’s tucked away on the south side of Interstate-70 in the town of Idaho Springs. Bridal Veil Falls & Charlie Tayler Water Wheel – Idaho Springs Bridal Veil Falls & Charlie Tayler Water Wheel, Idaho Springs. Here are the best waterfalls near Denver, CO, in order of proximity: 1. Remember to wear proper footwear with good traction around these wet waterfalls. The city of Denver itself, doesn’t offer any waterfalls, so we’ll be traveling west into the foothills and front range mountains to explore these gems. Some are short, simple hikes, others require patience and planning. They lie within an hour and a half drive of the city. We’ve rounded up seven of the best waterfalls closest to Denver, Golden and Boulder, with something for every ability level. If you don’t have the time to drive deep into the mountains to see an amazing waterfall, how about hitting the trails closer to Denver? While many of Colorado’s best waterfalls involve trekking deep into the backcountry, there are a number of fabulous waterfalls relatively near the city.
