Rifle Falls waterfall
Live Conditions · 1 ft³/s · About average

Rifle Falls

Colorado 70 ft

By Armen Suny · Last verified Mar 2026

Rifle Falls State Park SP · USBR
Photo Credits (5)
1.
iagoarchangel CC BY-SA 2.0 · Flickr
2.
iagoarchangel CC BY-SA 2.0 · Flickr
3.
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Difficulty

Easy

Trail Length

1.5 miles

Trail Type

Loop

Elevation Gain

100 ft

About Rifle Falls

Rifle Falls is a stunning triple waterfall located in Rifle Falls State Park, Colorado. Known for its lush surroundings and unique limestone caves, it is a popular destination for nature enthusiasts and photographers.

The Setting

Rifle Falls sits at 6,604 feet within Rifle Falls State Park, fed by the Divide Creek, in the high mountains of Colorado. The falls drop 70 feet.

Height: 70 feet

Trail & Hike Details

The Approach

The easy 1.5-mile loop trail gains 100 feet of elevation on the way to the falls.

Trail Description

The trail to Rifle Falls is a short and easy loop that takes visitors to the base of the falls and through nearby limestone caves. The trail is well-maintained and suitable for most visitors, including families with children.

What to Expect

The falls drop 70 feet. Dogs are welcome.

Accessibility

The trail is not wheelchair accessible. Uneven terrain and elevation changes require steady footing.

Frequently Asked Questions

🐶 Are Dogs Allowed at Rifle Falls?

✅ Dogs are allowed

Are There Any Fees or Permits Required?

🤑 Fee: $9.00

🏊 Is There Swimming at Rifle Falls?

❌ Swimming is not allowed

When to Visit

spring summer fall winter

Spring and early summer are the best times to visit, as the falls are typically at their fullest due to snowmelt. However, the park is beautiful year-round, with fall offering vibrant foliage and winter showcasing frozen waterfalls.

Seasonal Access

The best time to visit is Spring, Summer, Fall, and Winter.

Safety Information

The rocks near the falls can be slippery, so exercise caution when walking close to the water. Be mindful of uneven terrain in the caves.

Current Water Conditions

Updated about 2 hours ago Barely Flowing

1 ft³/s

Current discharge — how much water is flowing

About average for this time of year

Based on 3 years of record

4.79 ft

Water depth at gauge

7-Day Discharge Trend

What does this mean for your visit?

Flow is about average for this time of year.

About This Gauge

This gauge is on a nearby waterway and may not reflect exact conditions at the falls.

USGS 09090785
10.3 mi from waterfall
Drainage: 201 sq mi
Altitude: 5,449 ft

Weather Forecast

Location & Access

Getting There

Rifle Falls is located approximately 14 miles north of the town of Rifle, Colorado. From Rifle, take Highway 13 north, then turn east onto Highway 325 and follow signs to Rifle Falls State Park.

Get Directions on Google Maps

Parking

Parking is available at Rifle Falls State Park, but it can fill up quickly during peak seasons. Overflow parking may be available nearby.

Elevation

6604 feet above sea level

Coordinates

39.677754° N, -107.698661° W

Land Management

Rifle Falls State Park SP

Managed by SPR

Visitor Tips & Gear

Arrive early to secure parking, especially during weekends and holidays. Wear sturdy shoes if you plan to explore the caves, as the ground can be uneven and slippery. Bring a camera to capture the scenic beauty of the falls.

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This easy 1.5 miles hike is straightforward — comfortable trail shoes and plenty of water should do. Icy conditions are common in winter — traction cleats are a smart addition.

Additional Information

Nearby Attractions

Rifle Gap State Park and Rifle Mountain Park are nearby and offer additional recreational opportunities such as hiking, fishing, and camping.

Wildlife

Visitors may encounter deer, birds, and small mammals in the area. Be cautious and respectful of wildlife.

Cities near Rifle Falls

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