What are Some of the BEST Rides in Colorado

Spring is just around the corner for Colorado riders, and we want to highlight some great riding routes. This route winds through picturesque National Forests, offering countless opportunities for extra stops and stunning photo ops. While some waterfalls require a hike, the breathtaking views and rewarding sights make every step worthwhile.

South Mineral Falls

South Mineral Creek Falls is unlike any other waterfall in Colorado. Its turquoise waters are like nothing you’ve seen before.

It’s located at the South Fork Mineral Creek, deep inside the San Juan National Forest.

This 55 feet picturesque waterfall drops in two steps. The first step into the blue pool of South Mineral Creek Falls is 35 feet high, followed by a 20-foot drop into the narrow gorge.

If you love swimming, this is the waterfall for you.

And that’s not all!

With proper permits, you can also camp at the spectacular South Mineral Camping ground, which is surrounded by reddish peaks.

Hike Type: Out and Back
Starting Point: South Mineral Creek Trailhead
End Point: Upper South Mineral Creek falls
Distance: 6.2 miles roundtrip
Elevation gain: 9950 feet
Difficulty: moderate
Kid-Friendly: Yes
Best Time to Visit: May 01 to September 30

North Clear Creek Falls

North Clear Creek is a 100-foot tall fall located near Lake City in the Southwestern Colorado landscape.

To get to the falls, follow the Silver Thread Scenic Byway to Forest Road 510 and turn off at Spring Creek Pass to get to the falls. Once at the trailhead, walk for a few minutes to get to the falls.

Take note that this trail is not available during winter.

Hike Type: Out and Back
Starting Point: Rifle Falls State Park
End Point: North Clear Creek falls
Distance: 0.1 miles roundtrip
Elevation gain: 10000feet
Difficulty: easy
Kid-Friendly: Yes
Best Time to Visit: Spring through Fall

Hanging Lake

The Hanging Lakes Falls are probably the cleanest and clearest of all falls on this list.

This Natural National Landmark with two waterfalls cascading into the still depths of a lake is located in the Glenwood Canyon in White River National Forest.

While not as grand as other waterfalls on this list, the lake below is spectacular. The lake gives a mirage of clinging to the mountain edge, thus the name Hanging Lake.

The hike to the lake is a short but intense one-mile walk, and some of it involves climbing.

Hike Type: Out and Back or Loop
Starting Point: Hanging Lake Trailhead
End Point: Hanging Lake
Distance: 2.4miles roundtrip
Elevation gain: 1000 feet
Difficulty: difficult
Kid-Friendly: Yes
Best Time to Visit: All year round

Be sure to request a permit before visiting the lake.

Rifle Falls

Located in Riffle Falls State Park, Riffle Falls is one of the best waterfalls to visit if you’re in Colorado with your family.

This three-tier waterfall cascades down a 70-foot limestone cliff into a magnificent pool surrounded by moss-covered rocks and flowers at the bottom.

In the summer, the mist from the falling water provides a cooling effect, making these waterfalls quite crowded.

Hike Type: Out and Back or Loop
Starting Point: Rifle Falls State Park
End Point: Riffle falls
Distance: 0.2- 1.5 miles roundtrip, depending on the trail
Elevation gain: 6500 feet
Difficulty: easy
Kid-Friendly: Yes
Best Time to Visit: All year round

Bridal Veil Falls

Bridal Veil Falls is the largest free-falling waterfall in Colorado. Its waters cascade a whooping 365 feet into a box canyon.

The trailhead located at Telluride is relatively new. However, this trail is quite popular despite being new, so expect crowds.

The trail is just over a mile long and 1000 feet high. The hike up to the falls passes through a lush forest and large boulders, making it an excellent place for photography. At the top of this fall, a power plant sits.

Other trails lead to smaller yet stunning waterfalls, so be sure to explore your surroundings.

You can visit this waterfall all through the year. If you’re a climbing enthusiast, you’ll love this waterfall during winter because there’s ice climbing. However, take caution, as in winter, t