Grace Falls
Colorado • Rocky Mountain National Park
By Armen Suny · Last verified May 2026
Photo Credits (4)
Difficulty
Moderate
Trail Length
2.4 miles
Trail Type
Out And Back
Elevation Gain
350 ft
About Grace Falls
Grace Falls is a stunning waterfall located in Rocky Mountain National Park, Colorado. It cascades down a steep cliff face and is fed by snowmelt, making it most impressive during late spring and early summer. The waterfall is surrounded by alpine scenery, offering breathtaking views.
The Setting
Grace Falls sits at 10,269 feet within Rocky Mountain National Park, fed by the Colorado River, in the high alpine of Colorado.
Trail & Hike Details
The Approach
The moderate 2.4-mile out-and-back trail gains 350 feet of elevation on the way to the falls.
Trail Description
The trail to Grace Falls begins at the Wild Basin Trailhead and follows a well-maintained path through dense forests, crossing several streams and passing other waterfalls like Copeland Falls and Calypso Cascades. The final stretch to Grace Falls involves some off-trail navigation and may require careful footing.
What to Expect
Visitors can expect a moderately challenging hike with beautiful scenery, including forests, streams, and alpine meadows. Grace Falls itself is a dramatic sight, especially during the spring and early summer when water flow is at its peak.
Accessibility
The trail is not wheelchair accessible. Uneven terrain and elevation changes require steady footing.
Frequently Asked Questions
🐶 Are Dogs Allowed at Grace Falls?
❌ Dogs are not allowed
Are There Any Fees or Permits Required?
🤑 Fee: $30.00
Permit required
A timed entry permit is required to access Rocky Mountain National Park during peak season (May through October).
🏊 Is There Swimming at Grace Falls?
❌ Swimming is not allowed
When to Visit
Late spring to early summer is the best time to visit Grace Falls, as snowmelt ensures a strong flow. Fall offers beautiful foliage, while summer provides warmer weather for hiking.
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
Water temperature is currently 50°F — cold enough to cause numbness quickly. Avoid prolonged water contact and use caution near the falls.
Be prepared for sudden weather changes, including thunderstorms. Carry a map or GPS device, as parts of the trail may be poorly marked. Watch for slippery rocks near the waterfall.
Current Water Conditions
102 ft³/s
Current discharge — how much water is flowing
About average for this time of year
Based on 72 years of record
5.13 ft
Water depth at gauge
50°F
Very coldExpect numbness within minutes
7-Day Discharge Trend
What does this mean for your visit?
Flow is about average for this time of year. Water temperature is very cold at 50 degrees F, expect numbness within minutes. Expect crystal clear visibility and excellent dissolved oxygen levels. PH is normal at 7.6 and mineral content is typical.
Water Quality
Dissolved Oxygen
ExcellentSupports aquatic life
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.
Weather Forecast
Location & Access
Getting There
Grace Falls is located in the Wild Basin area of Rocky Mountain National Park. To access the trailhead, visitors typically start at the Wild Basin Trailhead, which is accessible via a paved road off Highway 7 near Allenspark, Colorado.
Get Directions on Google MapsParking
Parking is available at the Wild Basin Trailhead, but it can fill up quickly during peak seasons. Arrive early to secure a spot.
Elevation
10269 feet above sea level
Coordinates
40.323069° N, -105.688661° W
Land Management
Managed by NPS
Visitor Tips & Gear
Start early to avoid crowds and ensure parking. Wear sturdy hiking boots and bring plenty of water, as the trail can be long and uneven in places. Check weather conditions before heading out, as storms can develop quickly in the mountains.
This trail sits at 10,269 ft — roughly 30% less oxygen than sea level
Extreme AltitudeAt this elevation, altitude sickness is a real concern. Monitor how you feel, take frequent rest breaks, and descend if symptoms worsen. Visitors arriving from lower elevations should allow time to acclimatize.
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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.
Fingertip Pulse Oximeter
Monitor blood oxygen in real time — SpO2 commonly drops to 85–90% above 10,000 ft.
As an Amazon Associate, we earn from qualifying purchases.
With 2.4 miles and 350 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
Murphy's Resort
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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Grandview Campground
13.2 miles away · 0 sites
Grandview Campground is a small, tents-only facility with nine campsites. It is located near the west end of Long Draw Reservoir with views of the reservoir and Rocky Mountain National Park. There is a common parking area for all the sites with paths to the individual walk-in campsites. Vegetation varies from open grass to conifers. Each site has a tent pad, picnic table and fire grate. The most popular activity in the area is fishing but it also provides access to hiking opportunities in the nea
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Nearby Attractions
Other attractions in the Wild Basin area include Copeland Falls, Calypso Cascades, and Ouzel Falls. The nearby town of Estes Park offers dining and lodging options.
Wildlife
Wildlife in the area includes elk, deer, black bears, and various bird species. Always maintain a safe distance from animals.
Cities near Grace Falls
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