Ingram Falls

Colorado

Uncompahgre National Forest NF · US Forest Service

Photo Credits (5)

Zruda CC BY-NC-SA 2.0 · Flickr

simpsora CC BY-NC 2.0 · Flickr

Zruda CC BY-NC-SA 2.0 · Flickr

Difficulty

Moderate

Trail Length

2.4 miles

Trail Type

Out And Back

Elevation Gain

350 ft

About Ingram Falls

Ingram Falls is a picturesque cascade just outside Telluride, Colorado, spilling off Bridal Veil Creek and framed by the rugged San Juan Mountains. The falls sit on U.S. Forest Service land within the Uncompahgre National Forest, and are often visible from the access road toward Bridal Veil Falls — making Ingram Falls an easy, scenic stop on a mountain drive or a short hike. For those on foot, the most direct approach uses the Silver Lake Trail (USFS Trail #5507.1A). The route to the falls is a moderate out-and-back experience of about 2.4 miles with roughly 350 feet of elevation gain, offering alpine views and classic native-surface tread maintained by the USFS. It’s a welcoming option for day hikers who want a relatively short outing with big mountain scenery.

USFS Trail

SILVER LAKE #5507.1A

Trail Class

Minimally Developed

Surface

Native Material

Avg Grade

12-20%

USFS Segment

1.01 mi

Trail Description

Access is via Silver Lake Trail (USFS Trail #5507.1A). The official trail segment is Class 1 with a native material surface and a typical grade between 12–20%. The maintained GIS segment records about 1.01 miles for the mapped portion, while the full route to the falls is commonly described as a 2.4-mile out-and-back with approximately 350 feet of elevation gain. Expect firm, rocky native tread and short, steeper pitches; overall difficulty is rated moderate.

What to Expect

Visitors can expect stunning mountain scenery, cascading waterfalls, and a moderately challenging hike. The trail may be busy during peak seasons, and the road can be rough, requiring a high-clearance vehicle for those driving.

Accessibility

The trail is not wheelchair accessible due to steep and rocky terrain.

Seasonal Closures

The trail may be inaccessible during winter months due to snow and ice.

Safety Information

The trail can be steep and rocky, so proper footwear is essential. Be cautious of loose rocks and off-road vehicles. Weather in the mountains can change rapidly, so be prepared for sudden rain or storms.

Location & Access

Getting There

Ingram Falls is located near Telluride, Colorado, along the road to Bridal Veil Falls. Visitors can access the area via a 4WD road that leads to Bridal Veil Falls, with Ingram Falls visible along the way.

Get Directions on Google Maps

Parking

Parking is available near the base of the Bridal Veil Falls trailhead. Visitors should be prepared for limited parking during peak seasons.

Elevation

10961 feet above sea level

Coordinates

37.922598° N, -107.761555° W

Land Management

Uncompahgre National Forest NF

Managed by USFS

Visitor Tips & Gear

Start early to avoid crowds and ensure you have enough daylight for the hike. Wear sturdy hiking shoes and bring plenty of water. Be prepared for rapidly changing weather conditions in the mountains.

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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.

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

Hotels & Lodges Booking.com

Find hotels, lodges, and B&Bs near the trailhead

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

South Mineral Campground

8.1 miles away · 0 sites

South Mineral Campground, located along South Mineral Creek, is one of the most popular campgrounds in the San Juan National Forest. The campground has 26 sites, all of which are first-come, first-serve. Most campsites are shaded and well-spaced thanks to spruce and fir trees. Some sites are handicapped accessible. Some sites have large parking areas.Services include water, trash pickup, fire grates, picnic tables, and pit toilets. Bear-safe food storage is recommended. No electricity. Between

Book on Recreation.gov