Rifle Falls State Park is a state park in Colorado known for its unique geological formations and lush riparian environment. The park features a triple 70-foot waterfall where East Rifle Creek cascades over travertine dams, creating a distinctive landscape amidst the surrounding high desert. This setting provides a varied terrain suitable for several sports like hiking, offering opportunities to explore the creek, waterfalls, and surrounding natural areas.
Outdoor activities in Rifle Falls…
4
Routes
5
(1)
Average rating
13
People visited

766m
00:13
30m
Easy hike. Great for any fitness level. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.

4
hikers
1.01km
00:18
30m
30m
Easy hike. Great for any fitness level. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.

1.17km
00:20
30m
20m
Easy hike. Great for any fitness level. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.

5.0
(1)
9
hikers
3.10km
00:53
70m
70m
Easy hike. Great for any fitness level. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
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Rifle Falls State Park is known for its triple 70-foot (21-meter) waterfall, where East Rifle Creek cascades over travertine dams. The park also features a series of limestone caves and grottoes, some extending up to 90 feet (27 meters) in depth, located behind and beneath the waterfalls.
The primary outdoor activity at Rifle Falls State Park is hiking, with trails offering views of the waterfalls and access to limestone caves. Angling is also possible along East Rifle Creek, particularly near the Bobcat Trail. The park's unique features make it suitable for exploration and photography.
Rifle Falls State Park offers 3 main hiking trails. These include the Coyote Trail, Bobcat Trail, and Squirrel Trail, each providing different perspectives of the park's natural environment. For more details, refer to the Hiking in Rifle Falls State Park guide.
The Coyote Trail is approximately 1.5 miles (2.4 km) long, the Bobcat Trail is about 1 mile (1.6 km) long, and the Squirrel Trail is also around 1.5 miles (2.4 km) long. These trails offer various experiences, from waterfall views to creek-side walks.
Yes, Rifle Falls State Park offers easy hiking options. Portions of both the Coyote Trail and the Squirrel Trail are ADA accessible, providing gentle paths for visitors. The park is generally considered accessible for various skill levels, as detailed in the Easy hikes in Rifle Falls State Park guide.
Rifle Falls State Park is suitable for families, offering accessible trails and the opportunity to explore limestone caves. The unique triple waterfall provides an engaging natural attraction for all ages. Consider the Family-friendly hikes in Rifle Falls State Park guide for specific routes.
Yes, visitors can explore a series of limestone caves and grottoes located behind and beneath the waterfalls. Some caves extend up to 90 feet (27 meters) into the rock. It is advisable to bring a flashlight for navigating the darker sections.
The Coyote Trail is a popular 1.5-mile (2.4 km) path in Rifle Falls State Park. It offers views of the triple waterfall from both below and above, and provides access to the park's limestone caves. A portion of this trail is ADA accessible.
The Bobcat Trail is a 1-mile (1.6 km) non-paved trail that runs parallel to East Rifle Creek. It connects the state park with the Rifle Falls State Fish Hatchery and offers access to secluded fishing spots along the creek.
The Squirrel Trail is a 1.5-mile (2.4 km) path that meanders along Rifle Creek. It eventually leads to an overlook of the valley. The first 0.25 miles (0.4 km) of this trail are ADA accessible.
Rifle Falls State Park has 3 routes listed on komoot, with an average rating of 5.0 out of 5 stars. More than 70 visitors have shared their experiences in the park, primarily for hiking activities.
Komoot offers several guides for Rifle Falls State Park, including Hiking in Rifle Falls State Park, Easy hikes in Rifle Falls State Park, Family-friendly hikes in Rifle Falls State Park, and Waterfall hikes in Rifle Falls State Park.
The official website for Rifle Falls State Park is cpw.state.co.us/placestogo/parks/RifleFalls. The park can also be reached by phone at (970) 625-1607 for inquiries.

