Difficulty
Moderate
Trail Length
2.4 miles
Trail Type
Out And Back
Elevation Gain
350 ft
About Bessies Falls
Bessies Falls is a tucked-away cascade in Colorado, dropping through rocky ledges and sheltered by a mix of montane vegetation that gives the site a quietly scenic, off-the-beaten-path feel. The falls sit within the White River National Forest and are managed by the U.S. Forest Service, so the surrounding landscape retains a rugged, natural character that rewards hikers looking for a peaceful nature stop rather than a developed viewpoint. The U.S. Forest Service maps a nearby route as Himes Peak (Trail #1877), and hikers often use an approximately 2.4-mile out-and-back route with about 350 feet of elevation gain to reach the falls; the hike is generally rated moderate. If you’re planning an overnight stay, Shepherds Rim Campground is only about 3.15 km away, making Bessies Falls a pleasant day trip or short add-on to a camping stay in the White River National Forest.
The Setting
Bessies Falls sits at 9,281 feet within White River National Forest, in the high alpine of Colorado.
Trail & Hike Details
The Approach
The moderate hike follows Himes Peak (#1877), a 2.4-mile out-and-back trail over natural surface. Expect 350 feet of elevation gain. The trail is developed (Class 3).
USFS Trail
HIMES PEAK #1877
Trail Class
Developed
Surface
USFS Segment
0.11 miTrail Description
Trail: out-and-back, approximately 2.4 miles round trip with about 350 feet elevation gain; difficulty: moderate. The U.S. Forest Service lists the nearby official route as Himes Peak (Trail #1877) — a short mapped segment of roughly 0.11 miles with a native-material surface and a Class 3 rating. Expect primarily native trail surface; the Class 3 designation indicates short sections where hands-on scrambling or steeper, rockier footing is possible. Plan for variable footing and use caution on exposed or uneven sections.
What to Expect
Visitors can expect a quiet and scenic waterfall surrounded by natural beauty. The area may be less crowded compared to more popular waterfalls in Colorado.
Accessibility
The trail is not wheelchair accessible. Uneven terrain and elevation changes require steady footing.
Frequently Asked Questions
🐶 Are Dogs Allowed at Bessies Falls?
❌ Dogs are not allowed
Are There Any Fees or Permits Required?
🆖 No fees required
🏊 Is There Swimming at Bessies Falls?
❌ Swimming is not allowed
When to Visit
Spring and early summer are ideal times to visit, as snowmelt typically enhances the water flow.
Seasonal Access
The best time to visit is Spring, Summer, and Fall. Access roads and trails may close during winter due to snow. Check with White River National Forest for seasonal road closures.
Safety Information
The trail may be unmarked or involve rugged terrain. Be cautious of slippery rocks near the waterfall and watch for sudden weather changes.
Weather Forecast
Location & Access
Getting There
Specific directions to Bessies Falls are not widely documented. It is recommended to consult local hiking guides or AllTrails for the most accurate route information.
Get Directions on Google MapsParking
Parking availability is unclear. Visitors may need to park at a nearby trailhead or along the road, depending on the access point.
Elevation
9281 feet above sea level
Coordinates
40.000538° N, -107.278944° W
Land Management
Managed by USFS
Visitor Tips & Gear
Bring a detailed map or GPS device as the trail may not be well-marked. Wear sturdy footwear and be prepared for variable terrain.
This trail sits at 9,281 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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With 2.4 miles and 350 ft of elevation gain, sturdy boots and trekking poles will help on this moderate trail. Sun exposure on the trail makes good sun protection a must in summer.
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.
Timberland Euro Sprint Mid Waterproof
Trusted waterproof boot with premium leather and grippy rubber sole — reliable on rocky, wet trails.
TrailBuddy Trekking Poles
Lightweight aluminum, cork grips, and flip-locks that actually hold — a best-seller for good reason.
Polarized Sunglasses (Knockaround)
Cuts glare off the water so you actually see the falls — and your photos turn out better too.
Where to Stay
Rolling R Guest Ranch
Travelodge by Wyndham Yampa
Blue Spruce Inn-Meeker, Colorado
Deck and Pond Views! 2-Acre, Woodsy Rocky Mtn Haven
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
SHEPHERDS RIM CAMPGROUND
2.0 miles away · 16 sites
Overview Surrounded by mountains and nestled near the wilderness, the Shepherds Rim Campground at Trappers Lake has 15 scenic campsites. Located at 9,720 feet in elevation, visitors can locate this campground on the right side of the road as you travel south from the Trappers Lake Outlet area.Recreation Trappers Lake is known as the Cradle of Wilderness. At approximately 302 surface acres, the lake contains a strain of native cutthroat trout and the Colorado Parks and Wildlife operates a spawn co
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Nearby Attractions
Other hiking trails and natural attractions in the surrounding area may be worth exploring.
Wildlife
The area may be home to typical Colorado wildlife, including deer, birds, and small mammals.
Cities near Bessies Falls
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