Zapata Falls

Alamosa County, Colorado

4.7/5

based on 13 reviews

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Details

Distance

0.84 miles

Elevation Gain

325 ft

Route Type

Out-and-Back

Description

Added by Billy DiMirra

This is a hike is right outside of Great Sand Dunes National Park, that leads to a 30ft. cave waterfall.

Driving towards the Sand Dunes, you will see a sign marker that indicates the road up to Zapata Falls. Turn right onto the road a follow it for about 2 miles until you hit the parking lot at the top. The road is in pretty rough condition so if your car doesn't have high clearance make sure you take it slow. Once you reach the parking lot, you will see an 10ft sign indicating the trail head. You will follow the trail up for 1/2 mile leading to the cave entrance. Depending on the time of year you will continue into the cave, either on ice or through water and you will see the falls in the back of the cave.

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Zapata Falls Reviews

Explorer

Johnathan .

Explorer

Zapata Falls

03/11/16

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.

4.0

Leave No Trace

Always practice Leave No Trace ethics on your adventures and follow local regulations. Please explore responsibly!

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Zapata Falls

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Zapata Falls Reviews

Leave No Trace

Nearby

Summit Little Bear Peak

Mount Lindsey (CLOSED)

Summit Blanca and Ellingwood Peaks

Mosca Pass Trail

Star Dune and High Dune Loop

High Dune

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