Glacier Falls
Colorado • Rocky Mountain National Park
By Armen Suny · Last verified Mar 2026
Photo Credits (5)
Difficulty
Moderate
Trail Length
4.0 miles
Trail Type
Out And Back
Elevation Gain
800 ft
About Glacier Falls
Glacier Falls is a scenic waterfall tucked inside Rocky Mountain National Park and managed by the National Park Service. Framed by the park’s high-country terrain, the falls make a rewarding destination for hikers exploring Colorado’s alpine landscapes—an inviting spot for a picnic or a photo stop during a longer park outing. The approach to Glacier Falls is an out-and-back route of about 4.0 miles with roughly 800 feet of elevation gain, rated moderate. Hikers should expect a mixture of forested and rockier sections with some steep, uneven stretches; proper footwear and steady footing are recommended. The nearest developed campsite is Camp Dick, approximately 21.2 km away.
The Setting
Glacier Falls sits at 9,879 feet within Rocky Mountain National Park, in the high alpine of Colorado.
Trail & Hike Details
The Approach
The moderate 4.0-mile out-and-back trail gains 800 feet of elevation on the way to the falls.
Trail Description
Trail length: 4.0 miles (out-and-back); elevation gain: ~800 feet; difficulty: moderate. The route follows a mix of forested paths and rocky terrain with occasional steep sections and uneven footing. While the trail is commonly used by park visitors, expect some challenging stretches—sturdy shoes and basic hiking gear are advised. Managed and maintained within Rocky Mountain National Park by the National Park Service.
What to Expect
Visitors can expect a rewarding hike with stunning views of the waterfall and surrounding landscapes. The area is known for its natural beauty, including wildflowers in the summer and vibrant foliage in the fall.
Accessibility
The trail is not wheelchair accessible. Uneven terrain and elevation changes require steady footing.
Frequently Asked Questions
🐶 Are Dogs Allowed at Glacier Falls?
❌ Dogs are not allowed
Are There Any Fees or Permits Required?
🆖 No fees required
🏊 Is There Swimming at Glacier Falls?
❌ Swimming is not allowed
When to Visit
The best time to visit Glacier Falls is during late spring through early fall when the trails are typically clear of snow and the waterfall flow is strongest due to snowmelt.
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 prepared for rapidly changing weather conditions, including sudden storms. Carry sufficient water, and avoid hiking alone. Watch for slippery rocks near the waterfall.
Current Water Conditions
-218 ft³/s
Current discharge — how much water is flowing
Much lower than usual for this time of year
Based on 15 years of record
8.56 ft
Water depth at gauge
52°F
ColdBracing — limit time in water
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. Water temperature is a bracing 52 degrees F, limit your time in the water. Expect crystal clear visibility. PH is normal at 8.3 and mineral content is typical.
Water Quality
pH
NormalWithin healthy range (6.5-8.5)
Water Clarity
Crystal clearExcellent visibility
Conductance
Dissolved minerals in the water
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 Estes Park hit peak flow. We only send when conditions are worth the trip — no weekly newsletters, no spam.
Weather Forecast
Location & Access
Getting There
Glacier Falls is typically accessed via hiking trails in the surrounding area. It is located within a mountainous region, so visitors should plan for a drive to a trailhead followed by a hike.
Get Directions on Google MapsParking
Parking is available at nearby trailheads, but availability may vary depending on the season and time of day. Arrive early to secure a spot.
Elevation
9879 feet above sea level
Coordinates
40.293873° N, -105.645838° W
Land Management
Managed by NPS
Visitor Tips & Gear
Start your hike early to avoid crowds and ensure you have enough daylight for the return trip. Bring plenty of water, snacks, and layers, as weather conditions can change rapidly in the mountains.
This trail sits at 9,879 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 4.0 miles and 800 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.
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.
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
Riversong Inn Retreat
Boulder Brook on Fall River
Murphy's River Lodge
Taharaa Mountain 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
CAMP DICK
13.2 miles away · 42 sites
Overview Camp Dick is the site of a Civilian Conservation Corps camp that was established in the 1930s. It is located just off the Peak to Peak Scenic Byway, on the Middle Saint Vrain Creek.Recreation The Middle Saint Vrain Creek is a good fly-fishing stream where anglers cast for rainbow, brown and cutthroat trout. Many trails in the vicinity are open to hiking and biking, including Sourdough and Buchanan Pass trails. The Indian Peaks Wilderness boundary is four miles from the west end of the ca
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Nearby Attractions
Nearby attractions may include other hiking trails, alpine lakes, and scenic viewpoints in the surrounding area.
Wildlife
The area is home to a variety of wildlife, including deer, marmots, and birds. Be cautious of bears and other large animals, and follow proper wildlife safety guidelines.
Cities near Glacier Falls
Nearby Waterfalls
Other waterfalls named Glacier Falls
1 other waterfall shares this name across the U.S.
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