Rifle Falls State Park: A Colorado Mountain Oasis

Rifle falls state park is a jungle-like oasis tucked away in the Colorado mountains. A breathtaking 70 foot triple waterfall steals the show but not to be forgotten are the unique limestone caves that dot the landscape, or the great fishing opportunities, or the amazing family friendly hikes.

Waterfall
Just a short walk from the parking area takes you to a landscape you didn’t know existed in the Colorado mountains, as East Rifle Falls cascades down the limestone cliff it splits into three falls, each individually beautiful, but together, breathtaking. The mist from this triple waterfall coats the surrounding ground providing the perfect habitat for greenery to flourish.

Caves
Dotting the cliffside are small limestone caves that make for perfect opportunities to explore and have fun for all ages. The adventure does not stop in the winter because these usual dry caves turn into magnificent ice caves. It is a landscape not found anywhere else in Colorado and attracts visitors from all over the country.

Fishing
Great opportunities for fishing are also found in the park. below the falls in East Rifle Creek reside rainbow, brown and cutthroat trout. Fish up to 19 inches have been caught out of this creek. Above the falls sits the states largest trout hatchery. It is open to the public year round and is a pretty cool place to visit.

Trails
Bobcat Trail- This is a fairly new moderate 1 mile trail that take you from the falls up to the state fish hatchery

Squirrel trail- A moderate 1.5 mile trail that follows Rifle Creek and then up into the forest to an overlook of the valley below

Coyote Trail- The main trail of the park. A moderate 1.5 mile trail that takes to the falls and the numerous limestone caves and then continuing along the creek.