Cornet Falls
Colorado • 80 ft
By Armen Suny · Last verified May 2026
Photo Credits (5)
Difficulty
Moderate
Trail Length
1.0 miles
Trail Type
Out And Back
Elevation Gain
300 ft
About Cornet Falls
Cornet Falls is a striking 80-foot cascade tucked into a red rock canyon just outside Telluride, Colorado. The falls drop dramatically over rust-colored cliffs, creating a photogenic torrent that rewards hikers willing to tackle a short, moderately steep approach. Its compact setting and wild rock framing make Cornet Falls a favorite quick outing for visitors in the Telluride area. The hike to Cornet Falls is an out-and-back of roughly 1.0 miles with about 300 feet of elevation gain, rated moderate for fitness and footing. Because the route is short but uphill in places, many visitors combine the walk with other nearby trails or plan a relaxed visit to enjoy the viewpoint. The nearest developed campground is Matterhorn, about 12.57 km away, so plan overnight stays accordingly.
The Setting
Cornet Falls sits at 9,186 feet along the South Fork San Miguel River, in the high alpine of Colorado. The falls drop 80 feet.
Height: 80 feet
Nearby Falls Worth Visiting
Bridal Veil Falls, the tallest waterfall in Colorado at 365 feet, lies 2.8 miles to the southeast.
Trail & Hike Details
The Approach
The moderate 1.0-mile out-and-back trail gains 300 feet of elevation on the way to the falls.
Trail Description
Trail type: out-and-back; length: 1.0 miles; elevation gain: ~300 ft; difficulty: moderate. The route follows a dirt path that includes some rocky sections and a few steep inclines, winding through a scenic, forested stretch before opening onto the red rock canyon that frames the falls. Surface is primarily dirt with intermittent rock and root exposure; grade is moderately steep in places, and short steeper pitches lead to the waterfall viewpoint. Expect uneven footing—sturdy shoes and careful footing on wet rock are recommended.
What to Expect
The falls cascade 80 feet. Dogs are welcome.
Accessibility
The trail is not wheelchair accessible. Uneven terrain and elevation changes require steady footing.
Frequently Asked Questions
🐶 Are Dogs Allowed at Cornet Falls?
✅ Dogs are allowed
Are There Any Fees or Permits Required?
🆖 No fees required
🏊 Is There Swimming at Cornet Falls?
❌ Swimming is not allowed
When to Visit
The best time to visit Cornet Falls is in late spring or early summer when the water flow is at its peak. Fall also offers beautiful foliage along the trail.
Seasonal Access
The best time to visit is Spring, Summer, and Fall. Access roads and trails may close during winter due to snow.
Safety Information
The trail can be slippery, especially after rain or during icy conditions in winter. Exercise caution near the waterfall, as rocks may be unstable or slick. Always stay on the marked trail.
Current Water Conditions
68 ft³/s
Current discharge — how much water is flowing
About average for this time of year
Based on 14 years of record
1.88 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.
Know when to go.
Get a free email alert when waterfalls near Telluride hit peak flow. We only send when conditions are worth the trip — no weekly newsletters, no spam.
Weather Forecast
Location & Access
Getting There
Cornet Falls is located approximately 1 mile from downtown Telluride. To reach the trailhead, head to the Jud Wiebe Trail access point near North Aspen Street and Tomboy Road. The trail to the falls begins here.
Get Directions on Google MapsParking
Limited parking is available near the trailhead in Telluride. Visitors are encouraged to park in town and walk to the trailhead if parking is full.
Elevation
9186 feet above sea level
Coordinates
37.943065° N, -107.810384° W
Visitor Tips & Gear
Start your hike early in the day to avoid crowds, especially during peak summer months. Bring sturdy shoes, as the trail can be slippery in wet conditions. Be cautious near the waterfall, as rocks may be slick.
This trail sits at 9,186 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.
With 1.0 miles and 300 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.
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.
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.
Where to Stay
The Hotel Telluride
Mountain Lodge Telluride
Ouray Riverside Resort - Inn & Cabins
The Victorian Inn
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
MATTERHORN
7.8 miles away · 28 sites
Overview Matterhorn Campground is located along the San Juan Skyway (Colorado Highway 145), near the quaint town of Telluride, at an elevation of 8,500 feet. Visitors enjoy the area for its beautiful scenery, hiking and off-road opportunities.Recreation The Galloping Goose Trail #449 can be accessed from the campground. This 8.4-mile trail leads past a restored train trestle, over two trail bridges and along segments of the historic Rio Grande Southern Railway. The trail is open to hiking, biking
Book on Recreation.govNearby Hot Springs
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Looking for a soak after your hike? Explore more hot springs near Telluride, Colorado on SoakingSprings.
Explore Colorado springsAdditional Information
Nearby Attractions
Nearby attractions include the town of Telluride, the Jud Wiebe Trail, and Bridal Veil Falls.
Wildlife
Visitors may encounter wildlife such as deer, birds, and small mammals along the trail.
Cities near Cornet Falls
Nearby Waterfalls
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