Photo Credits (5)
Difficulty
Moderate
Trail Length
2.4 miles
Trail Type
Out And Back
Elevation Gain
350 ft
About Timberline Falls
Timberline Falls is a compact, scenic cascade tucked into Roosevelt National Forest in northern Colorado and managed by the U.S. Forest Service. The falls are reached via the USFS Beaver Creek Trail (Trail #911), which threads through mixed conifer and alpine meadows to a rewarding water feature framed by spruce and aspen. For campers, the historic Camp Dick campground sits about 3.57 km (roughly 2.2 miles) from the falls, making this a convenient day-hike-and-camp option for visitors seeking an overnight stay under the pines. The hike to Timberline Falls is a moderate out-and-back that offers a steady, scenic climb rather than technical mountaineering. Expect native tread, steadily sloped sections, and big-picture views of forested ridgelines — a peaceful, accessible waterfall destination managed by the USFS and well-suited to hikers looking for a relatively short but rewarding alpine outing.
The Setting
Timberline Falls sits at 9,219 feet within Roosevelt National Forest, fed by the Meadow Creek, in the high alpine of Colorado.
Trail & Hike Details
The Approach
The moderate hike follows Beaver Creek (#911), a 2.4-mile out-and-back trail over natural surface. Expect 350 feet of elevation gain with grades of +12-20%. The trail is moderately developed (Class 2).
USFS Trail
BEAVER CREEK #911
Trail Class
Moderately Developed
Surface
Avg Grade
USFS Segment
0.02 miTrail Description
Beaver Creek Trail (USFS Trail #911) is an out-and-back of approximately 2.4 miles round trip with about 350 feet of elevation gain and a moderate difficulty rating. The tread is native material throughout and USFS mapping records a short 0.02 GIS-mile mapped segment in the immediate falls area. Typical grade on the trail ranges from +12–20%, and the route is classified as Class 2 — primarily hiking on defined tread with occasional simple off-trail moves rather than technical climbing. The trail is managed by the U.S. Forest Service within Roosevelt National Forest; the nearest developed camping is Camp Dick, approximately 3.57 km away.
What to Expect
Visitors can expect breathtaking views of alpine scenery, cascading waterfalls, and the surrounding peaks. The final approach to Timberline Falls involves a rocky scramble, so proper footwear and caution are advised.
Accessibility
The trail is not wheelchair accessible. Uneven terrain and elevation changes require steady footing.
Frequently Asked Questions
🐶 Are Dogs Allowed at Timberline Falls?
❌ Dogs are not allowed
Are There Any Fees or Permits Required?
🤑 Fee: $30.00
Permit required
A timed entry permit is required to access Rocky Mountain National Park during peak season (May through October).
🏊 Is There Swimming at Timberline Falls?
❌ Swimming is not allowed
When to Visit
The best time to visit Timberline Falls is during the summer and early fall when the trail is free of snow and the weather is more predictable. Spring can also be beautiful, but snow may still cover parts of the trail.
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 Roosevelt National Forest for seasonal road closures.
Safety Information
The trail can be steep and rocky, especially near the falls. Be cautious of loose rocks and slippery surfaces. Weather can change rapidly, so be prepared for sudden storms or temperature drops. Altitude sickness may be a concern for some visitors.
Current Water Conditions
3 ft³/s
Current discharge — how much water is flowing
About average for this time of year
Based on 7 years of record
0.37 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.
Know when to go.
Get a free email alert when waterfalls near Hidden Lake hit peak flow. We only send when conditions are worth the trip — no weekly newsletters, no spam.
Weather Forecast
Location & Access
Getting There
Timberline Falls is accessed via the Glacier Gorge Trailhead in Rocky Mountain National Park. The trailhead is located off Bear Lake Road, which is accessible from Estes Park, Colorado.
Get Directions on Google MapsParking
Parking is available at the Glacier Gorge Trailhead, but it can fill up quickly, especially during peak seasons. Arrive early or use the park's shuttle system.
Elevation
9219 feet above sea level
Coordinates
40.135541° N, -105.559723° W
Land Management
Managed by USFS
Visitor Tips & Gear
Start early to avoid crowds and ensure you have enough time to complete the hike. Bring plenty of water, snacks, and layers, as weather can change quickly in the mountains. Trekking poles may be helpful for the steeper sections.
This trail sits at 9,219 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.
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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.
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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.
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
Taharaa Mountain Lodge
Rocky Mountain Panorama Cabin
Creekside Suites 12 by Estes Park Condos
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
CAMP DICK
2.2 miles away · 42 sites
Overview Camp Dick is the site of a Civilian Conservation Corps camp that was established in the 1930s. It is located just off the Peak to Peak Scenic Byway, on the Middle Saint Vrain Creek.Recreation The Middle Saint Vrain Creek is a good fly-fishing stream where anglers cast for rainbow, brown and cutthroat trout. Many trails in the vicinity are open to hiking and biking, including Sourdough and Buchanan Pass trails. The Indian Peaks Wilderness boundary is four miles from the west end of the ca
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Nearby Attractions
Nearby attractions include Alberta Falls, The Loch, and Sky Pond, all of which can be visited along the same trail.
Wildlife
Wildlife in the area may include elk, marmots, and various bird species. Be cautious of bears and mountain lions, and store food properly.
Cities near Timberline Falls
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