LiDAR terrain view · USGS 3DEP
McElmo Falls
By Armen Suny · Last verified Oct 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. 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 Mcelmo Creek, in the high mountains of Colorado.
Trail & Hike Details
Trail Description
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
1,310 ft³/s
Current discharge — how much water is flowing
Much higher than usual for this time of year
Based on 33 years of record
7-Day Discharge Trend
What does this mean for your visit?
The water is flowing much higher than usual, expect an impressive display.
About This Gauge
7-Day Flow Outlook
Based on the USGS gauge MCELMO CREEK ABOVE TRAIL CANYON NEAR CORTEZ, CO (8 km away).
Today
Strong
194 cfs
10/10Tomorrow
Roaring
255 cfs
6/10Thu
Strong
256 cfs
10/10Fri
Strong
231 cfs
10/10Sat
Strong
224 cfs
10/10Sun
Strong
209 cfs
10/10Mon
Strong
224 cfs
10/10Best window: Today — strong flow, sunny (trip score 10/10).
Best time of year: this gauge typically runs highest from late July to mid October, peaking in September.
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.
Is McElmo Falls Frozen?
Updated about 11 hours agoNot frozen highs above freezing lately
McElmo Falls is not frozen right now; highs have been above freezing. Yesterday ran 52°F to 40°F.
- Days below freezing
- 0 of the last 14
- Current cold streak
- 0 days
- Freezing days ahead
- 0 of the next 7
- Flow
- 194 ft³/s
Winter safety. Frozen falls are the one waterfall trip with a documented injury pattern: falling ice, and ice-glazed rock and trail. Wear microspikes, keep well back from the base and from overhangs, and never walk out on ice over moving water.
Estimate from Open-Meteo daily temperatures at the falls, the LiDAR-measured facing direction, and the nearest stream gauge. It is a likelihood, not a report from the trail. See every frozen waterfall in Colorado.
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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