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Lower Cascade Falls

Ouray, Colorado

3.0/5
based on 1 reviews

Details

Distance

0.5 miles

Route Type

Out-and-Back

Description

Added by Lucas Bremer

Hidden in plain sight, Lower Cascade Falls is a beautiful stop if you're passing through Ouray.

Located within the picturesque town of Ouray, Colorado, Cascade Falls is what most city parks strive to be. This park and amazing waterfall are located on the edge of town along the longer 5+ mile Perimeter Trail and provides a place for picnics, relaxing, and further days hikes through connector trails.

A quick .50 mile round trip hike begins at a parking lot. A small incline up to a great view of a mostly free falling 200 foot waterfall. You can see Cascade Falls from most spots within Ouray due to the height and sheer drop of the falls. 

Starting at the 8th street parking lot, it is a moderate .25 mile walk up the side of Cascade Creek to a nice shelter. If you continue on, you can view the falls from the base and splash in the creek. The Upper Cascade Falls is hidden, though there is a very difficult trail to reach it. Also close by is the great waterfall within Box Canyon.

Spend an hour or half a day enjoying this gem that is hidden in plain sight on a journey to the San Juan Mountains. 

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Features

Rock Climbing
Chillin
Photography
Running
Hiking
Bathrooms
Dog Friendly
Easy Parking
Family Friendly
Food Nearby
Forest
Picnic Area
River
Romantic
Scenic
Waterfall
Wildflowers
Wildlife

Lower Cascade Falls Reviews

The falls themselves are spectacular, but the area can be somewhat crowded. It is a good spot to hit on your way in or out or Ouray for a half hour or so.

Leave No Trace

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

Nearby

Soak at Ouray Hot Springs

Explore Yankee Boy Basin and the San Juan Mountains

Ice Climb the Ouray Ice Park

Box Canyon Falls

Backpack to Dragon's Back via Horsethief Trail

Mineral Creek OHV Trail