Explore Nellie Creek Falls
Details
Distance
0.8 miles
Elevation Gain
300 ft
Route Type
Out-and-Back
Added by Jason Hatfield
A small but photogenic falls tucked in the mountains near Lake City, Colorado. Make sure to visit in the fall when the surrounding aspens start turning a vibrant gold.
Nellie Creek Falls is a beautiful little falls, up County Road 23. The waterfall is surrounded by a forest of aspens leading up the valley. To get to the falls take the northern route of the Alpine Loop from Lake City towards Engineer Pass. In about 5 miles you come to Nellie Creek Road on the right. The waterfall is just under a mile up the road, which you'll need a high-clearance 4WD vehicle for or just hike along the road.
There really isn't anywhere near the falls to park and the road is very narrow. The best place I found was a couple of pull-outs before the falls next to a disused BLM sign. If you continue up the road 3 miles you'll reach the trailhead for Uncompahgre Peak, the tallest fourteener in the San Juans. There are some great viewpoints along the way so make sure to take your time.
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Beautiful 4 x 4
4×4 only, or hike. Beautiful senery & winding Roads with a lot off runoff springs & waterfalls. Beautiful Autumn Color with Aspen trees. Short trip up leaving lots of time to explore.
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