Lyric Falls
Colorado • Rocky Mountain National Park
By Armen Suny · Last verified May 2026
Photo Credits (2)
Difficulty
Moderate
Trail Length
2.4 miles
Trail Type
Out And Back
Elevation Gain
350 ft
About Lyric Falls
Tucked into Rocky Mountain National Park and managed by the National Park Service, Lyric Falls is a lesser-known cascade that rewards hikers with a peaceful, picture-perfect setting. The falls sit amid the park’s mountain vegetation and offer a quiet escape from the busier trailheads—an inviting spot for photographers and anyone seeking a short nature break within one of the nation’s best-loved parks. Access is straightforward but satisfying: the route to Lyric Falls is a moderate out-and-back hike of about 2.4 miles with roughly 350 feet of elevation gain. Because the falls lie on NPS land in Rocky Mountain National Park, check park trail reports before you go for current conditions and seasonal water flow. Pack water, wear sturdy footwear, and plan for changing mountain weather to make the most of this tranquil stop on your Rocky Mountain outing.
The Setting
Lyric Falls sits at 10,171 feet within Rocky Mountain National Park, 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
Trail length: 2.4 miles (out-and-back). Elevation gain: approximately 350 feet. Difficulty: Moderate. Trail type: out-and-back. This route is managed within Rocky Mountain National Park by the National Park Service; consult the park’s current trail conditions and alerts for up-to-date information. Surface, grade, and official trail class details were not provided in the available data—expect typical natural trail conditions and be prepared for uneven footing and variable terrain.
What to Expect
Visitors can expect a tranquil waterfall surrounded by natural beauty. The area may have uneven terrain and limited signage, so navigation skills may be required.
Accessibility
The trail is not wheelchair accessible. Uneven terrain and elevation changes require steady footing.
Frequently Asked Questions
🐶 Are Dogs Allowed at Lyric Falls?
❌ Dogs are not allowed
Are There Any Fees or Permits Required?
🆖 No fees required
🏊 Is There Swimming at Lyric Falls?
❌ Swimming is not allowed
When to Visit
Spring and early summer are typically the best times to visit, as snowmelt increases water flow. Fall offers beautiful foliage, while summer provides warmer weather.
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 uneven terrain and potential weather changes. Carry sufficient water and inform someone of your plans before heading out. Wildlife encounters are possible, so stay alert.
Current Water Conditions
-158 ft³/s
Current discharge — how much water is flowing
Much lower than usual for this time of year
Based on 15 years of record
8.61 ft
Water depth at gauge
58°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 58 degrees F, limit your time in the water. Expect crystal clear visibility. PH is normal at 8.4 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 Allenspark hit peak flow. We only send when conditions are worth the trip — no weekly newsletters, no spam.
Weather Forecast
Location & Access
Getting There
The exact location of Lyric Falls is not widely documented, but it is believed to be accessible via hiking trails in the area. Visitors should consult local trail maps or guides for precise directions.
Get Directions on Google MapsParking
Parking availability is unclear. Visitors may need to park at nearby trailheads or designated parking areas.
Elevation
10171 feet above sea level
Coordinates
40.224152° N, -105.596113° W
Land Management
Managed by NPS
Visitor Tips & Gear
Bring a detailed map or GPS device, as the trail to Lyric Falls may not be well-marked. Wear sturdy hiking shoes and be prepared for changing weather conditions.
This trail sits at 10,171 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
Mountain Shadows Resort
Boulder Brook on Fall River
Murphy's River 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 Attractions
Other hiking trails and natural landmarks in the surrounding area may be worth exploring.
Wildlife
The area may be home to various wildlife, including birds, deer, and small mammals. Be cautious of potential encounters with larger animals such as bears or mountain lions.
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