Trio Falls
Colorado • Rocky Mountain National Park
By Armen Suny · Last verified May 2026
Photo Credits (1)
Difficulty
Moderate
Trail Length
3.0 miles
Trail Type
Out And Back
Elevation Gain
500 ft
About Trio Falls
Tucked into the wild heart of Rocky Mountain National Park and managed by the National Park Service, Trio Falls is a charming cascade that rewards a short hike with classic Colorado mountain scenery. The falls thread through a mixed-conifer forest and drop in stepped tiers, making them a favorite stop for photographers and hikers looking for a relatively peaceful outing inside one of the country’s most iconic parks. Rocky Mountain National Park — established in 1915 and known for protecting montane, subalpine, and alpine ecosystems — provides the dramatic backdrop of ridgelines and stands of spruce and fir that frame the falls. Access to Trio Falls feels suitably adventurous without being extreme: the hike is a moderate out-and-back that is well suited to day-use visitors who want a nature-rich experience within the park. Because it sits on NPS land, follow park regulations and trail signage, and plan your visit in summer and early fall for the most reliable trail conditions and water flow.
The Setting
Trio Falls sits at 11,319 feet within Rocky Mountain National Park, in the high alpine of Colorado.
Trail & Hike Details
The Approach
The moderate 3.0-mile out-and-back trail gains 500 feet of elevation on the way to the falls.
Trail Description
Trail type: out-and-back. Length: 3.0 miles round trip with approximately 500 feet of elevation gain; rated moderate. The route winds through forested terrain with occasional open views of surrounding ridges and valleys. Hikers will encounter well-defined footpaths with some rocky sections and moderate inclines—suitable for those with basic hiking experience and steady footwear. As this is inside Rocky Mountain National Park, expect maintained trails and posted regulations rather than backcountry route-finding.
What to Expect
Visitors can expect a tranquil hike through natural surroundings, culminating in a beautiful waterfall with multiple cascades. The area around the falls may be slippery, so caution is advised.
Accessibility
The trail is not wheelchair accessible. Uneven terrain and elevation changes require steady footing.
Frequently Asked Questions
🐶 Are Dogs Allowed at Trio Falls?
❌ Dogs are not allowed
Are There Any Fees or Permits Required?
🆖 No fees required
🏊 Is There Swimming at Trio Falls?
❌ Swimming is not allowed
When to Visit
Spring and early summer are ideal for visiting Trio Falls, as snowmelt enhances the water flow. Fall offers beautiful foliage, while summer provides warmer weather.
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 Rocky Mountain National Park for current conditions.
Safety Information
Water temperature is currently 48°F — cold enough to cause numbness quickly. Avoid prolonged water contact and use caution near the falls.
The trail may have uneven terrain, slippery rocks near the falls, and potential for sudden weather changes. Visitors should stay on marked paths and avoid getting too close to the edge of the falls.
Current Water Conditions
-365 ft³/s
Current discharge — how much water is flowing
Much lower than usual for this time of year
Based on 15 years of record
8.48 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 well below normal for this time of year, so the waterfall may be a trickle. Water temperature is very cold at 48 degrees F, expect numbness within minutes. Expect crystal clear visibility. PH is normal at 7.9 and mineral content is typical.
Water Quality
pH
NormalWithin healthy range (6.5-8.5)
Water Clarity
Crystal clearExcellent visibility
Conductance
Dissolved minerals in the water
About This Gauge
This gauge is on a nearby waterway and may not reflect exact conditions at the falls.
Weather Forecast
Location & Access
Getting There
Trio Falls is located within a remote area of Colorado. Access typically requires driving to a trailhead, followed by a hike. Specific directions may vary depending on the trailhead used.
Get Directions on Google MapsParking
Parking is available at the trailhead, though spaces may be limited during peak seasons. Visitors are advised to arrive early to secure a spot.
Elevation
11319 feet above sea level
Coordinates
40.235818° N, -105.641393° W
Land Management
Managed by NPS
Visitor Tips & Gear
Wear sturdy hiking shoes and bring plenty of water. Arrive early to avoid crowds and secure parking. Check weather conditions before your visit, as trails may become muddy or icy.
This trail sits at 11,319 ft — roughly 30% less oxygen than sea level
Extreme AltitudeAt this elevation, altitude sickness is a real concern. Monitor how you feel, take frequent rest breaks, and descend if symptoms worsen. Visitors arriving from lower elevations should allow time to acclimatize.
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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.
Fingertip Pulse Oximeter
Monitor blood oxygen in real time — SpO2 commonly drops to 85–90% above 10,000 ft.
As an Amazon Associate, we earn from qualifying purchases.
With 3.0 miles and 500 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.
America the Beautiful Annual Pass
Covers entrance fees at 2,000+ federal recreation sites — required at most National Parks.
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
Mountain Shadows Resort
Boulder Brook on Fall River
Murphy's River Lodge
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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Nearby Attractions
Nearby attractions may include other hiking trails, scenic viewpoints, and local wildlife areas.
Wildlife
The area is home to a variety of wildlife, including birds, deer, and small mammals. Visitors should be aware of potential encounters with bears or other larger animals.
