Day Trips from Colorado Springs
← All Colorado Springs day tripsDay Trips from Colorado Springs: Waterfalls & Swimming Holes
The best waterfalls and swimming holes within driving distance of Colorado Springs, CO. Dramatic cascades, hidden gorges, and swimmable falls that reward the drive. Trail info, drive times, and ratings included.
4 waterfalls near Colorado Springs
Ouzel Falls
Colorado 80510, USA
Just 2 hrs 29 min from Colorado Springs, rated 4.9 stars by 128 visitors, perfect for hiking, scenic views, and getting outdoors.
Best time to visit: Spring through fall for trails and foliage. Fall colors peak mid-October.
Helen Hunt Falls
Colorado 80906, USA
Just 20 min from Colorado Springs, rated 4.8 stars by 709 visitors, perfect for hiking, scenic views, and getting outdoors.
Best time to visit: Spring through fall for trails and foliage. Fall colors peak mid-October.
Eldorado Canyon State Park
Eldorado Springs, CO 80025
Just 1 hr 37 min from Colorado Springs, rated 4.8 stars by 4,076 visitors, perfect for hiking, scenic views, and getting outdoors.
Best time to visit: Spring through fall for trails and foliage. Fall colors peak mid-October.
Paradise Cove / Guffey Gorge
Guffey, CO 80820
Just 1 hr 2 min from Colorado Springs, rated 4.6 stars by 779 visitors, perfect for hiking, scenic views, and getting outdoors.
Best time to visit: Spring through fall for trails and foliage. Fall colors peak mid-October.
Frequently Asked Questions About Waterfalls Day Trips from Colorado Springs
What are the best waterfalls near Colorado Springs, CO?
The best waterfalls near Colorado Springs range from roadside cascades to backcountry falls requiring a hike. Check the cards above for top-rated options with drive times and real visitor ratings.
Are there swimmable waterfalls near Colorado Springs?
Some waterfalls near Colorado Springs have designated swimming areas at their base. Always check current conditions and posted rules before swimming. State park waterfalls with established trails are generally the safest options.
How hard are the hikes to waterfalls near Colorado Springs?
Difficulty varies widely. Some waterfalls near Colorado Springs are visible from parking areas or short boardwalks. Others require moderate to strenuous hikes of 2-6 miles round trip. Check individual trail descriptions before heading out.
When is the best time to see waterfalls near Colorado Springs?
Spring (March-May) typically offers the highest water flow after snowmelt and rain. Waterfalls are beautiful year-round though. Winter ice formations are dramatic, and fall foliage framing a waterfall is hard to beat.
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