Hike to Zapata Falls

Escape from the dunes

After hiking up the dunes and getting sand in about every crevice of my body, Zapata falls was a nice little escape to cool down, Still iced over Memorial Day weekend.

Must See

Hiked to the falls in late April and most of the waterfall was still frozen over, but still so beautiful. The road out there was REALLY rough on my 2WD car, but it made it without falling apart. Win! If you're already in the area for the Great Sand Dunes I highly recommend checking the falls out as a part of your trip!

Awe-Inspiring

The pictures on this adventure are amazing, but in all honesty don't do the falls justice. We came in mid-February and had the place to ourselves (get there early, folks!) and honestly thought it was one of the coolest hikes we've ever done. We used YakTrax, but would have been fine with no traction at all. The road really isn't maintained, and also lasts long enough to make you question whether or not you went the right way. The trail was snowcovered, but the parking lot and road were clear!

Very short hike

The hike is SHORT but sweet. If you're already in the area I highly recommend checking this spot out. The cave is pretty awesome.

On my list

Visited Colorado a couple months back and was bummed i didnt make it out here to this amazing spot. Its definitely on my list the next time i'm back in the area.

Great short little hike. Prepare to get your feet wet!

The falls are spectacular as they're situated back in a little canyon, so you definitely will have to get your feet wet, there is no avoiding that. Typically what we'll do is hike one of the nearby trails, hit the falls on the way out (the cold water will feel great on your tired feet), and then head back to the dunes to lounge near the creek. This is a very short hike, but if you're camping in the area then it is a must see.