Agnes Vaille Falls
Photo Credits (5)
Difficulty
Easy
Trail Length
0.6 miles
Trail Type
Out And Back
Elevation Gain
100 ft
About Agnes Vaille Falls
Agnes Vaille Falls is a scenic waterfall located in the San Isabel National Forest near Nathrop, Colorado. It is a popular destination for its short hike and picturesque views, especially during the spring and summer when water flow is strongest.
USFS Trail
CASCADE CREEK TRAIL #1433
Trail Class
Developed
Surface
USFS Segment
0.88 miTrail Description
The trail to Agnes Vaille Falls is a short and relatively easy hike, making it suitable for most visitors. It features a well-maintained path with minimal elevation gain, leading to a beautiful waterfall surrounded by rocky cliffs. The area was impacted by a rockslide in 2013, so visitors should stay on marked trails for safety.
What to Expect
Visitors can expect a short, scenic hike with views of the surrounding mountains and a cascading waterfall. The trail is family-friendly and offers opportunities for photography and nature observation.
Accessibility
The trail is not wheelchair accessible due to uneven terrain and rocky sections.
Seasonal Closures
The trail is generally open year-round, but heavy snow or rockfall may cause temporary closures. Check with the local forest service for current conditions.
Safety Information
Stay on marked trails to avoid unstable areas affected by past rockslides. Be cautious of loose rocks and slippery surfaces near the waterfall. Check weather conditions before visiting, as storms can cause flash flooding.
Location & Access
Getting There
Agnes Vaille Falls is located off County Road 162 near Nathrop, Colorado. From Buena Vista, take US-285 south, then turn west onto County Road 162. Follow the road for approximately 8 miles to the trailhead parking area.
Get Directions on Google MapsParking
There is a designated parking area at the trailhead, but it may fill up quickly during peak seasons.
Elevation
9278 feet above sea level
Coordinates
38.720552° N, -106.234465° W
Land Management
Managed by USFS
Visitor Tips & Gear
Arrive early to secure parking, especially during weekends and summer months. Wear sturdy shoes as the trail may have uneven sections. Be cautious of loose rocks near the waterfall.
This trail sits at 9,278 ft — the air is noticeably thinner
High AltitudeSome visitors experience headaches, fatigue, or shortness of breath at this elevation. Take it slow, stay hydrated, and consider supplemental oxygen if you're coming from a lower altitude.
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Coppertone Sport SPF 50 Sunscreen
UV intensity jumps ~4% per 1,000 ft — at this elevation you can burn in half the time.
Sun Bum SPF 30 Lip Balm (3-Pack)
Lips have almost no natural UV protection and burn fast in thin, dry mountain air.
Liquid I.V. Electrolyte Packets
You lose moisture ~2x faster at elevation — electrolytes help you absorb water efficiently.
ROCKNIGHT Polarized UV400 Sunglasses
High-altitude glare off rock and water is intense — UV400 lenses block 99%+ of UVA/UVB.
Boost Oxygen 10L Canister (2-Pack)
Portable supplemental oxygen for quick relief from headaches and shortness of breath.
Altitude Rx OxyBoost Complex
Antioxidant formula designed to support your body's natural altitude acclimation.
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For this easy 0.6 miles trail, lightweight trail shoes and a water bottle are usually sufficient. Sun exposure on the trail makes good sun protection a must in summer.
Polarized Sunglasses (Knockaround)
Cuts glare off the water so you actually see the falls — and your photos turn out better too.
Columbia Watertight II Rain Jacket
Packs into its own pocket, seam-sealed, and keeps you dry from spray and surprise rain.
Earth Pak Waterproof Dry Bag
Keeps your phone and gear dry when waterfall mist soaks everything else.
Waterproof Phone Pouch (AiRunTech)
Cheap insurance — take photos right next to the falls without killing your phone.
JOBY GorillaPod Starter Kit
Wraps around railings and rocks for long-exposure waterfall shots — no flat surface needed.
Osprey Daylite Daypack
Light, organized, and just the right size for a day hike — fits water, snacks, and layers.
Where to Stay
Find hotels, lodges, and B&Bs near the trailhead
Browse vacation cabins and private rentals nearby
Unique outdoor stays — tents, yurts, and treehouses
Rent a campervan or RV for your waterfall road trip
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Nearby Campground
CHALK LAKE
0.5 miles away · 19 sites
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Explore Colorado springsFrequently Asked Questions
🐶 Are Dogs Allowed at Agnes Vaille Falls?
✅ Dogs are allowed
Are There Any Fees or Permits Required?
🆖 No fees required
🏊 Is There Swimming at Agnes Vaille Falls?
❌ Swimming is not allowed
Best Seasons to Visit
The best time to visit is during late spring or early summer when the snowmelt increases the water flow. Fall offers beautiful foliage, while winter may bring icy conditions.
Additional Information
Nearby Attractions
Nearby attractions include Mount Princeton Hot Springs, St. Elmo Ghost Town, and the Collegiate Peaks Wilderness.
Wildlife
The area is home to wildlife such as deer, marmots, and various bird species. Be cautious and respectful of wildlife.
