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.
Pack List
- Hiking Shoes
- High Clearance 4WD Vehicle (optional)
- Camera + Telephoto Lens + Tripod + ND Filter
Reviews
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24 days ago
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.
Added by Jason Hatfield
Adventure and travel photographer based out of Denver, Colorado. I teach photography workshops and offer private guiding around the west. More at jasonjhatfield.com
FollowActivities:
Chillin, Photography, Hiking
Skill Level:
Beginner
Season:
Summer, Autumn
Trail Type:
Out-and-Back
Distance:
0.8 Miles
Elev. Gain:
300 Feet
Rating:
Features:
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