Are there fees or permits required for Crooke Falls?

No, there are no fees required to visit Crooke Falls.

Is swimming allowed at Crooke Falls?

No, swimming is not allowed at Crooke Falls.

Live Conditions · 74 ft³/s · About average

Crooke Falls

Q: Are dogs allowed at Crooke Falls?

No, dogs are not allowed at Crooke Falls.

Colorado

By Armen Suny · Last verified May 2026

Difficulty

Moderate

Trail Length

3.0 miles

Trail Type

Out And Back

Elevation Gain

500 ft

About Crooke Falls

Crooke Falls is a lesser-known Colorado cascade tucked into a quiet, forested setting that feels a world away from more crowded trailheads. The falls themselves offer a peaceful reward — a modest drop framed by evergreens and rocky ledges, ideal for hikers seeking a scenic, contemplative stop rather than a strenuous outing. The overall vibe is intimate and wooded, perfect for photographers and day-hikers who favor solitude. Access to the falls comes via a modest hike: the route is an out-and-back of about 3.0 miles round trip with roughly 500 feet of elevation gain and is typically rated moderate. Expect a natural singletrack that winds through mixed forest with some rocky, uneven sections; sturdy footwear and steady footing make the approach more enjoyable. The nearest developed campsite is Mill Creek Campground, about 13.85 km away, so plan accordingly for water and overnight options.

The Setting

Crooke Falls sits at 8,724 feet along the Henson Creek, in the high alpine of Colorado.

Nearby Falls Worth Visiting

Treasure Falls (105 ft) lies 2.8 miles to the west.

Treasure Falls

Trail & Hike Details

The Approach

The moderate 3.0-mile out-and-back trail gains 500 feet of elevation on the way to the falls.

Trail Description

Trail length: 3.0 miles (out-and-back). Elevation gain: approximately 500 feet. Difficulty: moderate. The path follows natural singletrack through forested terrain with mixed surface conditions—mainly dirt tread interspersed with rocky and uneven sections. Grade is generally moderate with occasional short, steeper pitches; the trail is suitable for hikers comfortable on rocky, uneven trails. Footwear with good traction is recommended. The route leads directly to the falls and a small viewing area where the cascade and pool can be enjoyed before returning the same way.

What to Expect

Visitors can expect a moderately challenging hike through a forested area, leading to a beautiful waterfall. The area around the falls is typically quiet and offers opportunities for photography and relaxation.

Accessibility

The trail is not wheelchair accessible. Uneven terrain and elevation changes require steady footing.

Frequently Asked Questions

🐶 Are Dogs Allowed at Crooke Falls?

❌ Dogs are not allowed

Are There Any Fees or Permits Required?

🆖 No fees required

🏊 Is There Swimming at Crooke Falls?

❌ Swimming is not allowed

When to Visit

spring summer fall

The best time to visit Crooke Falls is during the spring and early summer when water flow is at its peak due to snowmelt. Fall also offers beautiful foliage, making it a great time for a visit.

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

Visitors should exercise caution on the trail, especially near the waterfall, as rocks may be slippery. Be prepared for sudden weather changes and carry a first aid kit.

Current Water Conditions

Updated about 2 hours ago Roaring

74 ft³/s

Current discharge — how much water is flowing

About average for this time of year

Very Low Low Normal High Very High

Based on 6 years of record

7.19 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

HENSON CREEK AT LAKE CITY, CO

USGS 09124010

0.8 mi from waterfall

Drainage: 84 sq mi

Altitude: 8,667 ft

Weather Forecast

Location & Access

Getting There

Crooke Falls is located within a forested area in Colorado. Access typically involves driving to a nearby trailhead and hiking to the falls. Specific directions may vary depending on the trailhead used.

Get Directions on Google Maps

Parking

Parking is available at the trailhead, but spaces may be limited during peak seasons. Visitors are advised to arrive early to secure a spot.

Elevation

8724 feet above sea level

Coordinates

38.014164° N, -107.311722° W

Visitor Tips & Gear

Start your hike early to avoid crowds and secure parking. Bring plenty of water, snacks, and appropriate footwear. Be prepared for changing weather conditions, as Colorado's weather can be unpredictable.

This trail sits at 8,724 ft — the air is noticeably thinner

High Altitude

Some 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.

As an Amazon Associate, we earn from qualifying purchases.

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 3.0 miles and 500 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

Forbes 5 Star Luxury Hotel - 1 Br Ski-in Ski-out Residence in Mountain Village Colorado

10.0 8 reviews

See all hotels near Lake City

Cabins & Rentals VRBO

Browse vacation cabins and private rentals nearby

Glamping Hipcamp

Unique outdoor stays — tents, yurts, and treehouses

RV Rentals Outdoorsy

Rent a campervan or RV for your waterfall road trip

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Nearby Campground

Mill Creek Campground (CO)

8.6 miles away · 22 sites

Reservable

Overview Mill Creek Campground is located 14 miles southwest of Lake City, Colorado at 9,500 feet above sea level. Nestled along the Lake Fork of the Gunnison River, the campground offers a fishing access trail for anglers and river access (though boating is not recommended from this location). The campground is surrounded by the Redcloud Peak and Handies Peak Wilderness Study Areas with world class hiking opportunities just a short drive away, including trails to three 14,000-foot peaks. From th

Book on Recreation.gov