WaterfallNear Me

Columbine Falls

Larimer County, Colorado

Your visit at a glance

Waterfall height
Not recorded
Location
Larimer County, Colorado
Access status
Park trail with falls views documented; entrance pass required
The walk
Under 8.5 miles return
Ground & access
Strenuous high-altitude trail with about 2,500 feet of gain to the lake. Exposed above treeline; lightning, wind and rapid weather changes are hazards.
Rocky Mountain Hiking Trails: Chasm Lake

Follow the East Longs Peak Trail from the Longs Peak Ranger Station uphill through forest and above treeline to the Chasm Lake Trail junction. The Chasm Lake Trail runs along the wall of a deep gorge with views down to Peacock Pool and Columbine Falls, then passes over the top of the falls. Return the same way.

Plan your visit

Longs Peak Trailhead via the East Longs Peak Trail and Chasm Lake Trail to views of Columbine Falls

Rocky Mountain Hiking Trails gives 8.5 miles round trip to Chasm Lake. The trail passes above Columbine Falls shortly before the lake, so the walk to the falls is somewhat shorter; the exact figure is not given.

Strenuous high-altitude trail with about 2,500 feet of gain to the lake. Exposed above treeline; lightning, wind and rapid weather changes are hazards.

Where to start

Longs Peak Trailhead lot at the ranger station, one mile off Highway 7. The lot fills very early; limited roadside parking. Car camping is not allowed in the lot.

Timing & water

Snow can cover the high trail outside summer. Start early to avoid afternoon thunderstorms.

Before you go

A park entrance pass is required at all hours; the standard pass is $15 to $35. In 2026, timed entry reservations were needed to enter between 9 a.m. and 2 p.m. from May 22 to October 12. Dates for 2027 not yet verified.

Visitor information
Visit sources

More waterfalls nearby

Within 40 straight-line miles. Road and trail distances will differ.

Explore Colorado

Waterfall location

Larimer County, Colorado.

Open location map