East Fork Falls
By Armen Suny · Last verified Sep 2026
LiDAR & 3D terrain
Photo Credits (5)
Difficulty
Moderate
Trail Length
2.0 miles
Trail Type
Out And Back
Elevation Gain
300 ft
About East Fork Falls
East Fork Falls is a scenic, tucked-away cascade set amid quiet forest on public BLM lands. The falls are a peaceful stop for hikers who prefer a less-crowded outing, offering a serene atmosphere and classic Colorado riparian scenery. The site and access route lie within lands managed by the Bureau of Land Management’s Colorado River Valley Field Office (designation: PUB), so expect a natural, undeveloped setting rather than formal park infrastructure. Reaching the falls is a pleasant short hike that rewards visitors with seasonal flow and shaded woodlands—an inviting choice for anyone looking to escape the busier front-country spots. Because the area is managed by the BLM, visitors should practice Leave No Trace and be prepared for basic, minimally maintained trails.
The Setting
East Fork Falls sits at 7,579 feet within Colorado River Valley Field Office, fed by the Parachute Creek, in the high mountains of Colorado.
Trail & Hike Details
The Approach
The moderate 2.0-mile out-and-back trail gains 300 feet of elevation on the way to the falls.
Trail Description
This is a roughly 2.0-mile out-and-back route with about 300 feet of elevation gain; the Bureau of Land Management lists the route as moderate. The trail winds through forested terrain with occasional views of the East Fork and includes rocky sections and moderate inclines, so expect natural tread and some uneven footing. Suitable for hikers with some experience, the path is relatively short but can be rooted or loose in places—sturdy shoes and basic navigation awareness are recommended.
What to Expect
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 East Fork Falls?
✅ Dogs are allowed
Are There Any Fees or Permits Required?
🆖 No fees required
🏊 Is There Swimming at East Fork Falls?
❌ Swimming is not allowed
When to Visit
The best time to visit East Fork Falls is during late spring through early fall when the trail is free of snow and the waterfall flow is at its peak.
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 be cautious of slippery rocks near the waterfall and be prepared for changing weather conditions. Carry a first aid kit and let someone know your plans before heading out.
Current Water Conditions
4 ft³/s
Current discharge — how much water is flowing
Much lower than usual for this time of year
4.35 ft
Water depth at gauge
7-Day Discharge Trend
What does this mean for your visit?
Flow is well below normal for this time of year, so the waterfall may be a trickle.
About This Gauge
This gauge is on a nearby waterway and may not reflect exact conditions at the falls.
7-Day Flow Outlook
Based on the USGS gauge PARACHUTE CREEK AT PARACHUTE, CO. (13 km away).
Today
Barely Flowing
4 cfs
5/10Tomorrow
Barely Flowing
5 cfs
3/10Mon
Low
5 cfs
3/10Tue
Low
6 cfs
4/10Wed
Low
5 cfs
3/10Thu
Barely Flowing
5 cfs
5/10Fri
Barely Flowing
4 cfs
5/10Best window: Today — barely flowing flow, sunny (trip score 5/10).
Best time of year: this gauge typically runs highest from late March to late June, peaking in May.
How we calculate this
This is a transparent outlook, not a precise forecast. We take the waterfall's current flow strength (how it ranks against its historical normal for today, from the nearest USGS stream gauge), carry that ranking forward along the gauge's seasonal curve, and nudge it for forecast rain. Confidence is highest for the next day or two and falls further out. Always check official conditions and your own judgment before visiting — high flows can be dangerous.
Know when to go.
Get a free email alert when waterfalls near Battlement Mesa hit peak flow. We only send when conditions are worth the trip — no weekly newsletters, no spam.
Weather Forecast
The Terrain, Seen by LiDAR
Aircraft-mounted lasers measured this ground to within inches. Trees and buildings are digitally stripped away, leaving the bare shape of the land the water has carved.
1-meter lidar shows East Fork Falls dropping about 443 feet in a single sheer step. The brink sits at about 7,589 feet above sea level.
Steep ground runs through the entire stretch: about 287 feet of descent in the 500 feet above the pin and 157 feet in the 500 feet below it. Facing west, the falls glow in afternoon and evening light.
Drag to compare. The dot marks the waterfall. The frame is about a mile across.
- Ground elevation
- 7,589 feet
- Measured by 1-meter lidar
- Drop at the falls
- About 443 feet
- Change in ground height within ~250 feet of the falls
- Faces
- West
- Glows in afternoon and evening light.
A slice through the lidar ground surface, from above the falls to downstream (heading west).
Elevation data: USGS 3D Elevation Program. Aerial imagery: USGS The National Map. Public domain.
Location & Access
Getting There
East Fork Falls is located in the San Juan National Forest, Colorado. Access typically involves driving to a trailhead near the East Fork of the San Juan River. Specific directions may vary depending on the starting point, so consulting a map or GPS is recommended.
Get Directions on Google MapsParking
Parking is available at the trailhead, but spaces may be limited during peak seasons. Visitors should plan to arrive early to secure a spot.
Elevation
7,579 feet above sea level
Coordinates
39.562581° N, -108.013787° W
Land Management
Managed by BLM
Visitor Tips & Gear
Wear sturdy hiking shoes as the trail may be uneven or rocky in places. Bring plenty of water and snacks, especially during warmer months. Check weather conditions before visiting, as rain or snow can make the trail slippery.
This trail sits at 7,579 ft above sea level
Elevated TrailUV radiation is roughly 30% stronger at this elevation than at sea level, and the dry air accelerates dehydration. Extra sun protection and fluids go a long way.
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.
As an Amazon Associate, we earn from qualifying purchases.
With 2.0 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
Grand Vista Hotel Parachute
La Quinta by Wyndham Rifle
Western Slope Suites Parachute
Hampton Inn & Suites Rifle
Browse vacation cabins and private rentals nearby
Unique outdoor stays — tents, yurts, and treehouses
Rent a campervan or RV for your waterfall road trip
Some links are affiliate links. We may earn a commission at no extra cost to you.
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Nearby Attractions
The San Juan National Forest offers numerous hiking trails, scenic drives, and opportunities for wildlife viewing. Nearby attractions include Wolf Creek Pass and Treasure Falls.
Wildlife
The area is home to a variety of wildlife, including deer, elk, and birds. Visitors should be cautious of bears and other large animals.
Cities near East Fork Falls
Nearby Waterfalls
LiDAR
Other waterfalls named East Fork Falls
1 other waterfall shares this name across the U.S.
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