LiDAR terrain view · USGS 3DEP
McElmo Falls
By Armen Suny · Last verified Sep 2026
LiDAR & 3D terrainAbout McElmo Falls
McElmo Falls is a low-profile, seasonal cascade tucked into McElmo Canyon in southwestern Colorado. The falls are at their best after heavy rains or spring snowmelt, when runoff brings a sudden, short-lived surge of water over the ledge — otherwise the feature can be a quiet cliff and dry seep. Because it’s a lesser-known spot, visits here feel exploratory rather than crowded, appealing to hikers who like off-the-beaten-path discoveries and changing seasonal scenery. Reaching the falls typically involves a short hike and some route-finding: the most commonly used approach is an out-and-back trip of about 2.4 miles round trip with roughly 350 feet of elevation gain. The hike is generally rated moderate and can involve unmarked, unmaintained terrain, so come prepared with a good map, footwear for uneven ground, and water. The nearest developed campground is McPhee Recreation Complex, roughly 20.9 km (about 13 miles) away, so plan camping or services accordingly.
The Setting
McElmo Falls sits at 5,886 feet along the Mud Creek, in the high mountains of Colorado.
Trail & Hike Details
Trail Description
Length: ~2.4 miles round-trip (out-and-back). Elevation gain: ~350 feet. Difficulty: Moderate. Trail type: out-and-back. Official USFS trail name/number and detailed surface/grade/class data are not available for the route to McElmo Falls; expect largely natural, unmaintained terrain and occasional route-finding over rocky or uneven ground rather than a well-signed, graded trail.
What to Expect
McElmo Falls is a seasonal waterfall, so water flow is not guaranteed. The surrounding area is characterized by desert landscapes and unique rock formations, offering a scenic backdrop for exploration.
Accessibility
Accessibility information is not available. The area may not be suitable for individuals with mobility challenges due to rugged terrain.
Frequently Asked Questions
🐶 Are Dogs Allowed at McElmo Falls?
❌ Dogs are not allowed
Are There Any Fees or Permits Required?
🆖 No fees required
🏊 Is There Swimming at McElmo Falls?
❌ Swimming is not allowed
When to Visit
The best time to visit is typically in the spring or after heavy rains, when the waterfall is most likely to be flowing.
Seasonal Access
The best time to visit is Spring, Summer, and Fall. Access roads and trails may close during winter due to snow.
Safety Information
Visitors should be cautious of remote conditions, lack of cell service, and potential wildlife encounters. Always carry sufficient water and navigation tools.
Current Water Conditions
0 ft³/s
Current discharge — how much water is flowing
Much lower than usual for this time of year
Based on 38 years of record
1.30 ft
Water depth at gauge
64°F
CoolRefreshing for swimming
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 refreshing 64 degrees F, good for a quick swim. Mineral content is elevated.
Water Quality
Conductance
Dissolved minerals in the water
About This Gauge
7-Day Flow Outlook
Based on the USGS gauge MUD CREEK AT STATE HIGHWAY 32, NEAR CORTEZ, CO. (4 km away).
Today
Barely Flowing
0 cfs
5/10Tomorrow
Barely Flowing
0 cfs
5/10Mon
Barely Flowing
0 cfs
5/10Tue
Low
0 cfs
3/10Wed
Low
0 cfs
3/10Thu
Low
0 cfs
3/10Fri
Low
0 cfs
4/10Best window: Today — barely flowing flow, sunny (trip score 5/10).
Best time of year: this gauge typically runs highest from early August to mid September, peaking in July.
How we calculate this
This is a transparent outlook, not a precise forecast. We take the waterfall's current flow strength (how it ranks against its historical normal for today, from the nearest USGS stream gauge), carry that ranking forward along the gauge's seasonal curve, and nudge it for forecast rain. Confidence is highest for the next day or two and falls further out. Always check official conditions and your own judgment before visiting — high flows can be dangerous.
Know when to go.
Get a free email alert when waterfalls near Cortez 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.
The ground through the falls loses about 64 feet in steep steps rather than one leap. The ground at the falls is roughly 5,893 feet above sea level.
The ground changes about 22 feet in the 500 feet above the falls and 49 feet in the 500 feet below. The falls face west and glow in afternoon and evening light.
Drag to compare. The dot marks the waterfall. The frame is about a mile across.
- Ground elevation
- 5,893 feet
- Measured by 1-meter lidar
- Drop at the falls
- About 64 feet
- Change in ground height within ~250 feet of the falls
- Faces
- West
- Glows in afternoon and evening light.
A slice through the lidar ground surface, from above the falls to downstream (heading west).
Elevation data: USGS 3D Elevation Program. Aerial imagery: USGS The National Map. Public domain.
Location & Access
Getting There
McElmo Falls is located in McElmo Canyon, near the southwestern corner of Colorado. The exact location and access details are not well-documented, and visitors may need to explore the area carefully or consult local resources for guidance.
Get Directions on Google MapsParking
Parking availability is unclear. Visitors should prepare for limited or informal parking options in the area.
Elevation
5,886 feet above sea level
Coordinates
37.319399° N, -108.615897° W
Visitor Tips & Gear
Check weather conditions before visiting, as the waterfall may only flow after significant rainfall or snowmelt. Bring plenty of water and be prepared for remote conditions.
This trail sits at 5,886 ft above sea level
Elevated TrailUV radiation is roughly 24% stronger at this elevation than at sea level, and the dry air accelerates dehydration. Extra sun protection and fluids go a long way.
As an Amazon Associate, we earn from qualifying purchases.
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
Some links are affiliate links. We may earn a commission at no extra cost to you.
Nearby Campground
MCPHEE RECREATION COMPLEX
13 miles away · 97 sites
Overview McPhee Recreation Complex is located on the south shore of McPhee Reservoir near the town of Dolores in southwestern Colorado. Visitors enjoy the area for its boating, water skiing and fishing opportunities. Recreation McPhee Reservoir, the largest within the San Juan National Forest and second-largest in Colorado, has 50 miles of shoreline. Boating, water skiing and fishing are popular activities. A boat ramp and fish cleaning station are located within the complex. The half-mile Can Do
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Nearby Attractions
The McElmo Canyon area is known for its scenic beauty and proximity to archaeological sites, including Hovenweep National Monument.
Wildlife
The area may feature desert wildlife such as lizards, birds, and small mammals. Visitors should also be cautious of snakes.
Cities near McElmo Falls
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