Bear Creek Falls
Ouray County, Colorado
Your visit at a glance
- Waterfall height
- Not recorded
- Location
- Ouray County, Colorado
- Access status
- Roadside overlook with parking documented
- The walk
- Roadside viewpoint; short walk from the lot
- Ground & access
- Short walk from the lot to a platform that extends over the cliff edge.
Drive south from Ouray on US 550 for 2.9 miles to the bridge over Bear Creek. Park in the lot on the west side of the road. An observation platform over the cliff edge looks at the falls, which pour out from under the highway. The falls are not visible while driving.
Plan your visit
US 550 overlook parking south of Ouray to the Bear Creek Falls viewing platform
The viewing platform is beside the parking area. The 2.9-mile figure is driving distance from Ouray, not a walk.
Short walk from the lot to a platform that extends over the cliff edge.
Where to start
Large parking area on the west side of US 550. Hiking Project says it is much easier to enter when driving south.
Timing & water
Uncover Colorado says it is accessible year round; spring and summer flow is best. Winter road conditions on US 550 vary.
Before you go
Uncover Colorado lists no fee.
Visitor informationMore waterfalls nearby
Within 40 straight-line miles. Road and trail distances will differ.
- Cascade FallsCity park route, parking and free entry documentedOuray County, CO1.8 miN
Lower Twin FallsOuray County, CO5.7 miW- Sneffels Creek FallsOuray County, CO5.7 miW
Upper Twin FallsOuray County, CO5.7 miW- Upper Ingram FallsPartial guide: upper and lower Ingram drops are not separated by any source; closer approach unconfirmedSan Miguel County, CO7.7 miSW
- Lower Ingram FallsPartial guide: lower and upper Ingram drops are not separated by any source; closer approach unconfirmedSan Miguel County, CO7.7 miSW
Bridal Veil FallsOfficial visitor route; winter hazards; distance not publishedSan Miguel County, CO8.2 miSW
Bear Creek FallsOfficial trail route and distance documentedSan Miguel County, CO11 miSW- Clear Creek FallsPublished route and trailhead documented; current trail condition unverifiedSan Juan County, CO14 miSW