Snyder Falls
By Armen Suny · Last verified Sep 2026
LiDAR & 3D terrain
Photo Credits (4)
Trail Length
0.5 miles
About Snyder Falls
Snyder Falls is a quiet, scenic cascade tucked into the trees of San Isabel National Forest and managed by the U.S. Forest Service. The short approach threads through lush vegetation and rocky outcrops along Echo Canyon, rewarding visitors with a peaceful waterfall setting that feels off the beaten path. Hikers will appreciate the natural, forested character of the site and the low visitor density compared with more popular Colorado falls. Access is via USFS Echo Canyon Trail (Trail #1479), and though the falls are modest in scale, the setting makes a lovely half-day outing. Camping is available nearby at the historic Crescent Mining Camp campground, located about 9.0 km from the trailhead, making an overnight stay convenient for those who want to explore the area at a relaxed pace.
The Setting
Snyder Falls sits at 9,721 feet within San Isabel National Forest, fed by the Halfmoon Creek, in the high alpine of Colorado.
Trail & Hike Details
The Approach
The moderate hike follows Echo Canyon (#1479), a 0.5-mile out-and-back trail over natural surface. The trail is minimally developed (Class 1).
USFS Trail
ECHO CANYON #1479
Trail Class
Minimally Developed
Surface
USFS Segment
0.51 miTrail Description
Echo Canyon (Trail #1479) is an out-and-back route of about 2.4 miles total with approximately 350 feet of elevation gain; the Forest Service records the trail as Class 1 with a native-material surface. USFS GIS data also notes a 0.51-mile mapped segment on Trail #1479 associated with the falls. Expect a primarily natural tread of dirt and rock, generally easy-to-follow but with typical uneven footing; overall difficulty is rated moderate.
What to Expect
Visitors can expect a tranquil waterfall surrounded by natural beauty. The area may have rocky sections and dense vegetation.
Accessibility
Accessibility information is not available. The trail may not be suitable for individuals with mobility challenges.
Frequently Asked Questions
🐶 Are Dogs Allowed at Snyder Falls?
❌ Dogs are not allowed
Are There Any Fees or Permits Required?
🆖 No fees required
🏊 Is There Swimming at Snyder Falls?
❌ Swimming is not allowed
When to Visit
Spring and early summer are ideal for visiting Snyder Falls, as snowmelt typically enhances the water flow.
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 San Isabel National Forest for seasonal road closures.
Safety Information
Water temperature is currently 48°F — cold enough to cause numbness quickly. Avoid prolonged water contact and use caution near the falls.
Visitors should be cautious of slippery rocks, uneven terrain, and potential wildlife encounters. Always stay on marked trails if available.
Current Water Conditions
12 ft³/s
Current discharge — how much water is flowing
Lower than usual for this time of year
1.41 ft
Water depth at gauge
48°F
Very coldExpect numbness within minutes
7-Day Discharge Trend
What does this mean for your visit?
Flow is lower than usual for this time of year. Water temperature is very cold at 48 degrees F, expect numbness within minutes.
About This Gauge
This gauge is on a nearby waterway and may not reflect exact conditions at the falls.
7-Day Flow Outlook
Based on the USGS gauge HALFMOON CREEK NEAR MALTA, CO (12 km away).
Today
Low
12 cfs
6/10Tomorrow
Moderate
14 cfs
4/10Mon
Moderate
15 cfs
4/10Tue
Moderate
15 cfs
4/10Wed
Moderate
15 cfs
4/10Thu
Moderate
13 cfs
8/10Fri
Low
12 cfs
6/10Best window: Thu — moderate flow, sunny (trip score 8/10).
Best time of year: this gauge typically runs highest from mid May to mid August, peaking in June.
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 Leadville North 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.
Here the descent is spread out: 1-meter lidar measures about 81 feet of drop through Snyder Falls, stretched along the creek rather than stacked in one wall. The brink sits at about 9,728 feet above sea level.
The ground changes about 79 feet in the 500 feet above the falls and 38 feet in the 500 feet below. The falls face southeast and catch soft morning light.
Drag to compare. The dot marks the waterfall. The frame is about a mile across.
- Ground elevation
- 9,728 feet
- Measured by 1-meter lidar
- Drop at the falls
- About 81 feet
- Change in ground height within ~250 feet of the falls
- Faces
- Southeast
- Catches soft morning light.
A slice through the lidar ground surface, from above the falls to downstream (heading southeast).
Elevation data: USGS 3D Elevation Program. Aerial imagery: USGS The National Map. Public domain.
Location & Access
Getting There
Specific directions to Snyder Falls are not widely documented. It is recommended to consult local hiking guides or AllTrails for the most accurate route information.
Get Directions on Google MapsParking
Parking availability is unclear. Visitors should prepare for limited parking options and consider carpooling if visiting with a group.
Elevation
9,721 feet above sea level
Coordinates
39.069607° N, -106.444263° W
Land Management
Managed by USFS
Visitor Tips & Gear
Bring sturdy footwear and plenty of water. Check local weather conditions before visiting, as trails may become slippery after rain.
This trail sits at 9,721 ft — the air is noticeably thinner
High AltitudeSome visitors experience headaches, fatigue, or shortness of breath at this elevation. Take it slow, stay hydrated, and consider supplemental oxygen if you're coming from a lower altitude.
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.
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.
Where to Stay
The Timberline
Beautiful Mountain Views in Iconic Building
Roadhouse Lodge & Coffee Shop
Lake Flora Cabin
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
CRESCENT MINING CAMP
5.6 miles away · 1 sites
Overview Cabin campers can escape the city - and escape modern day amenities - by staying at the fully rustic, historic Crescent Mining Camp cabins. The cabins offer a true old fashioned taste of life on the mine in the 19th century, with no electricity or running water. Visitors can focus on the sounds of nature and the incredible views of the Rocky Mountains from its creekside location. The mining camp was built in the 1890s during the boom of mining and milling in Clear Creek Canyon. Miners so
Book on Recreation.govNearby Hot Springs
Hot springs near Leadville, Colorado
Rhodes Warm Spring
Rhodes Warm Spring emerges at 75°F at 10,172 feet elevation in the high mountain country of Park County near Fairplay, offering...
Conundrum Hot Springs
Conundrum Hot Springs reaches 100 degrees Fahrenheit at 11,229 feet elevation in the Maroon Bells-Snowmass Wilderness. The spec...
Cottonwood Hot Springs
Cottonwood Hot Springs emerges at an extraordinary 136 degrees Fahrenheit near Buena Vista, a scorching roadside spring in the ...
Cement Creek Hot Spring
Cement Creek Hot Spring flows at 77 degrees Fahrenheit near Crested Butte at 9,223 feet elevation. A moderate 430-foot walk thr...
Hortense Hot Spring
Hortense Hot Spring ranks among Colorado's most thermally impressive geothermal features, with water emerging at a blistering 1...
Aqua Hot Spring
Aqua Hot Spring emerges at 102 degrees Fahrenheit in Chaffee County, notable for its roadside access and balanced mineral compo...
Looking for a soak after your hike? Explore more hot springs near Leadville, Colorado on SoakingSprings.
Explore Colorado springsAdditional Information
Nearby Attractions
Other hiking trails and natural attractions in Colorado may be nearby, but specific recommendations are not documented.
Wildlife
The area may be home to typical Colorado wildlife, including birds, deer, and small mammals. Visitors should remain cautious of potential encounters with bears or mountain lions.
Cities near Snyder Falls
Nearby Waterfalls
Writing about Snyder Falls? Embed this waterfall on your site for free.