Photo Credits (5)
Difficulty
Drive Up
Trail Length
0.1 miles
Trail Type
Out And Back
About Folsom Falls
Folsom Falls is a compact but striking cascade on the Cimarron River in Union County, northeastern New Mexico. Situated about 3 miles northeast of the town of Folsom along New Mexico State Highway 456 (east of Raton), the falls are best seen when runoff from spring snowmelt or heavy rains fills the river. The creek drops through a rugged, rocky setting that makes for attractive photos and a quick, rewarding stop for travelers exploring the Dry Cimarron corridor. Parking is available along NM-456 and the site is popular for short visits and day hikes from the roadside; services are limited, so plan to bring water and basic supplies from Folsom or Raton. The location’s riverine geology and easy highway access make Folsom Falls a pleasant outing for photographers and hikers looking to pair a scenic stop with a longer out-and-back walk in the area.
Trail & Hike Details
The Approach
No hiking required. Folsom Falls is accessible by vehicle with a roadside viewing area.
Trail Description
Though a short roadside approach brings you close to viewing points at the falls, many hikers follow a defined out-and-back route of approximately 2.4 miles round trip with about 350 feet of elevation gain. The route is rated moderate in difficulty and follows a natural footpath with rocky, uneven terrain—expect short pitches and modest grades rather than technical climbing. Access is from the pullout on New Mexico State Highway 456; the trail is suitable for day hikers comfortable on an unpaved, variable surface.
What to Expect
Dogs are welcome.
Accessibility
This waterfall is viewable from a vehicle-accessible area. No hiking is required.
Frequently Asked Questions
🐶 Are Dogs Allowed at Folsom Falls?
✅ Dogs are allowed
Are There Any Fees or Permits Required?
🆖 No fees required
🏊 Is There Swimming at Folsom Falls?
❌ Swimming is not allowed
When to Visit
Spring and early summer are typically the best times to visit, as the falls are more likely to have water during these seasons.
Seasonal Access
The best time to visit is Spring, Summer, and Fall. Access roads and trails may close during winter due to snow. Watch for flash flood warnings during monsoon season (July through September).
Safety Information
Be cautious of loose rocks and uneven terrain near the falls. Avoid visiting during heavy rain, as flash flooding may occur in the area.
Know when to go.
Get a free email alert when waterfalls near Folsom 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 the creek losing roughly 77 feet through Folsom Falls over a long run of ledges. Elevation at the pin is about 6,160 feet.
The ground changes about 156 feet in the 500 feet above the falls and 23 feet in the 500 feet below. The falls face northwest and stay mostly shaded, with soft, even light all day.
Drag to compare. The dot marks the waterfall. The frame is about a mile across.
- Ground elevation
- 6,160 feet
- Measured by 1-meter lidar
- Drop at the falls
- About 77 feet
- Change in ground height within ~250 feet of the falls
- Faces
- Northwest
- Mostly shaded, so the light stays soft and even all day.
A slice through the lidar ground surface, from above the falls to downstream (heading northwest).
Elevation data: USGS 3D Elevation Program. Aerial imagery: USGS The National Map. Public domain.
Location & Access
Getting There
Folsom Falls is located approximately 3 miles west of the town of Folsom, New Mexico, along NM-456. The falls are visible from the road, and there is a small pull-off area for parking nearby.
Get Directions on Google MapsParking
Limited roadside parking is available near the falls. Visitors should ensure their vehicles are parked safely off the road.
Elevation
6,155 feet above sea level
Coordinates
36.872716° N, -103.880920° W
Visitor Tips & Gear
Visit after recent rainfall or during spring snowmelt for the best chance to see the falls flowing. Wear sturdy shoes if you plan to explore the rocky area near the falls.
This trail sits at 6,155 ft above sea level
Elevated TrailUV radiation is roughly 25% stronger at this elevation than at sea level, and the dry air accelerates dehydration. Extra sun protection and fluids go a long way.
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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.
Where to Stay
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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Additional Information
Nearby Attractions
Capulin Volcano National Monument, Dry Cimarron Scenic Byway, and the town of Folsom.
Wildlife
The area is home to various bird species, small mammals, and reptiles. Visitors may also spot deer or pronghorn in the surrounding grasslands.
Cities near Folsom Falls
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