Chasm Falls
Colorado • Rocky Mountain National Park
By Armen Suny · Last verified Mar 2026
Photo Credits (5)
Difficulty
Easy
Trail Length
0.6 miles
Trail Type
Out And Back
Elevation Gain
100 ft
About Chasm Falls
Chasm Falls is a picturesque waterfall located in Rocky Mountain National Park, Colorado. It cascades down a rocky gorge along the Fall River, offering stunning views and a serene atmosphere. The waterfall is a popular stop for visitors exploring the Old Fall River Road.
The Setting
Chasm Falls sits at 9,055 feet within Rocky Mountain National Park, fed by the Michigan River, in the high alpine of Colorado.
Trail & Hike Details
The Approach
The easy 0.6-mile out-and-back trail gains 100 feet of elevation on the way to the falls.
Trail Description
The trail to Chasm Falls is a short and easy hike from the parking area. It follows a well-maintained path with minimal elevation gain, making it accessible for most visitors. The trail provides beautiful views of the surrounding forest and leads directly to a viewing area for the falls.
What to Expect
Visitors can expect a short, scenic hike to a stunning waterfall surrounded by lush forest. The falls are especially impressive in the spring and early summer when water flow is at its peak. The area is peaceful and offers great opportunities for photography.
Accessibility
The trail is short and relatively flat, but the surface may be uneven. Contact the managing agency for accessibility details.
Frequently Asked Questions
🐶 Are Dogs Allowed at Chasm Falls?
❌ Dogs are not allowed
Are There Any Fees or Permits Required?
🤑 Fee: $30.00
Permit required
A timed entry reservation is required to access Rocky Mountain National Park during peak season (May through October). Additionally, a park entrance fee is required.
🏊 Is There Swimming at Chasm Falls?
❌ Swimming is not allowed
When to Visit
The best time to visit Chasm Falls is in the late spring or early summer when the snowmelt increases the water flow. Fall is also a great time to visit for colorful foliage.
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 Rocky Mountain National Park for current conditions.
Safety Information
Be cautious of slippery rocks near the waterfall. Stay on designated trails and viewing areas to avoid accidents. Weather in the mountains can change rapidly, so be prepared for sudden storms or temperature drops.
Current Water Conditions
1 ft³/s
Current discharge — how much water is flowing
About average for this time of year
Based on 52 years of record
2.22 ft
Water depth at gauge
7-Day Discharge Trend
What does this mean for your visit?
Flow is about average for this time of year.
About This Gauge
This gauge is on a nearby waterway and may not reflect exact conditions at the falls.
Weather Forecast
Location & Access
Getting There
Chasm Falls is located along the Old Fall River Road in Rocky Mountain National Park. The road is a one-way, unpaved route that is typically open from late June to early October, depending on weather conditions. Visitors can access the falls by driving along this scenic road.
Get Directions on Google MapsParking
There is a small parking area near the trailhead for Chasm Falls along Old Fall River Road. Parking may be limited during peak times.
Elevation
9055 feet above sea level
Coordinates
40.416761° N, -105.672617° W
Land Management
Managed by NPS
Visitor Tips & Gear
Arrive early in the day to secure parking, especially during the summer months. Be prepared for cooler temperatures, as the area is at a higher elevation. Check the status of Old Fall River Road before visiting, as it may be closed due to weather conditions.
This trail sits at 9,055 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.
As an Amazon Associate, we earn from qualifying purchases.
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.
America the Beautiful Annual Pass
Covers entrance fees at 2,000+ federal recreation sites — required at most National Parks.
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
Riversong Inn Retreat
Boulder Brook on Fall River
Creekside Suites 12 by Estes Park Condos
Murphy's River Lodge
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
Tom Bennett Campground
11.9 miles away · 0 sites
Located near Pingree Park, this campground is situated adjacent to the South Fork Cache la Poudre River in a lodgepole pine forest setting. This campground provides a primitive camping experience in a remote location. There are ten sites, each with a picnic table and fire grate. This is an older facility and will not accommodate larger RVs. Popular activities include hiking and stream fishing.
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Nearby Attractions
Other attractions in Rocky Mountain National Park include Trail Ridge Road, Bear Lake, and Alberta Falls.
Wildlife
Visitors may encounter wildlife such as elk, deer, marmots, and various bird species. Always maintain a safe distance from wildlife.
Cities near Chasm Falls
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