LiDAR terrain view · USGS 3DEP
About Trinchera Falls
Tucked into the foothills of the Sangre de Cristo Mountains in southern Colorado, Trinchera Falls is a quiet, lesser-known cascade framed by mixed conifer and aspen forest. The falls sit on lands managed by the SLB within the Trinchera Cave SRMA, giving the spot a tucked-away, recreational feel that’s perfect for hikers seeking a peaceful outing and photographers looking for scenic compositions. Visitors find the setting serene and relatively uncrowded compared with more popular Colorado waterfalls. Access and stewardship are handled by the SLB (the land owner and manager), so it’s a good idea to check any SRMA guidelines before you go and leave no trace while visiting. The hike to the falls rewards modest effort with forested trails and changing light through the trees—an inviting short-day adventure for moderately fit hikers.
The Setting
Trinchera Falls sits at 5,420 feet within Trinchera Cave, in the high mountains of Colorado.
Trail & Hike Details
Trail Description
Specific USFS surface, grade, and technical class details are not provided in the available data; expect a typical forested singletrack or user path and be prepared for uneven footing. Carry a map or GPS, water, and appropriate footwear, and respect SLB/Trinchera Cave SRMA regulations while on the route.
What to Expect
Visitors can expect a peaceful and remote waterfall surrounded by dense forest. The area may be less crowded due to its relative obscurity.
Accessibility
The trail and waterfall are not likely to be accessible for individuals with mobility challenges due to rugged terrain and lack of developed infrastructure.
Frequently Asked Questions
🐶 Are Dogs Allowed at Trinchera Falls?
❌ Dogs are not allowed
Are There Any Fees or Permits Required?
🆖 No fees required
🏊 Is There Swimming at Trinchera Falls?
❌ Swimming is not allowed
When to Visit
Spring and early summer are ideal for visiting, as snowmelt typically enhances the waterfall's flow. Fall offers beautiful foliage, while winter access may be limited due to snow.
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 prepared for remote conditions, including potential wildlife encounters, sudden weather changes, and limited cell service. Carry a map and let someone know your plans.
7-Day Flow Outlook
Based on the USGS gauge VAN BREMER ARROYO NEAR MODEL, CO (20 km away).
Today
Barely Flowing
0 cfs
5/10Tomorrow
Barely Flowing
0 cfs
5/10Fri
Barely Flowing
0 cfs
5/10Sat
Low
0 cfs
3/10Sun
Low
0 cfs
4/10Mon
Barely Flowing
0 cfs
5/10Tue
Barely Flowing
0 cfs
3/10Best window: Today — barely flowing flow, sunny (trip score 5/10).
Best time of year: this gauge typically runs highest from late December to mid April, peaking in January.
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 Branson hit peak flow. We only send when conditions are worth the trip — no weekly newsletters, no spam.
Is Trinchera Falls Frozen?
Updated about 4 hours agoNot frozen highs above freezing lately
Trinchera Falls is not frozen right now; highs have been above freezing. Yesterday ran 70°F to 35°F.
- Days below freezing
- 0 of the last 14
- Current cold streak
- 0 days
- Freezing days ahead
- 0 of the next 7
- Flow
- 0 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.
1-meter lidar measures about 114 feet of descent through Trinchera Falls, a steep tiered drop rather than a single free fall. The brink sits at about 5,394 feet above sea level.
Steep ground runs through the entire stretch: about 92 feet of descent in the 500 feet above the pin and 85 feet in the 500 feet below it. Facing southeast, the falls catch soft morning light.
Drag to compare. The dot marks the waterfall. The frame is about a mile across.
- Ground elevation
- 5,394 feet
- Measured by 1-meter lidar
- Drop at the falls
- About 114 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
Trinchera Falls is located near the Trinchera Peak area in the Sangre de Cristo Mountains. Access typically involves driving on forest service roads, which may require a high-clearance vehicle. Specific trailhead details are not well-documented.
Get Directions on Google MapsParking
Parking availability is unclear, but visitors may need to park at a nearby trailhead or along forest service roads.
Elevation
5,420 feet above sea level
Coordinates
37.167798° N, -104.013579° W
Land Management
Managed by SLB
Visitor Tips & Gear
Check road and trail conditions before visiting, as access may be affected by weather or seasonal closures. Bring plenty of water, snacks, and appropriate gear for hiking in remote areas.
This trail sits at 5,420 ft above sea level
Elevated TrailUV radiation is roughly 22% stronger at this elevation than at sea level, and the dry air accelerates dehydration. Extra sun protection and fluids go a long way.
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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.
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
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Additional Information
Nearby Attractions
Nearby attractions include Trinchera Peak and other hiking opportunities in the Sangre de Cristo Mountains.
Wildlife
The area is home to a variety of wildlife, including deer, elk, and birds. Be cautious of bears and other potentially dangerous animals.
Cities near Trinchera Falls
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