Explore Nellie Creek Falls
Colorado › Nellie Creek Falls
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Activities:
Chillin, Photography, Hiking
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Skill Level:
Beginner
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Season:
Summer, Autumn
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Trail Type:
Out-and-Back
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RT Distance:
0.8 Miles
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Elevation Gain:
300 Feet
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
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.
3 months ago
Jason HatfieldExplorer
Adventure and travel photographer based out of Denver, Colorado. I teach photography workshops and offer private guiding around the west. More at jasonjhatfield.com
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