Reviews
Rifle Falls
Phuwandersalot
We recently visited Rifle Falls State Park, and it ended up being one of our favorite outdoor spots we've been to in Colorado. The first thing that stood out to us was how easy it was to access the main attraction. After parking, the waterfall is only a very short walk away, making it a great destination for families, casual hikers, or anyone who wants to enjoy nature without a strenuous hike. As soon as we saw the waterfall, we were impressed. Pictures really don't do it justice. The water flows down in multiple streams, creating a beautiful and relaxing scene. The sound of the rushing water and the cool mist in the air made the whole area feel peaceful and refreshing. We found ourselves just standing there for a while, taking it all in and enjoying the view. The trails around the park are easy to walk and well maintained. We enjoyed exploring the area at a relaxed pace without feeling rushed. There were plenty of spots to stop, take pictures, and appreciate the scenery. The park felt very welcoming and accessible, which made the experience enjoyable from start to finish. One thing we really appreciated was how much natural beauty is packed into such a small area. You don't have to spend hours hiking to see something amazing. Within minutes of arriving, you're already surrounded by beautiful views, trees, rock formations, and the incredible waterfall. It felt like the perfect place to disconnect from the busy day-to-day routine and simply enjoy being outdoors. Overall, Rifle Falls State Park exceeded our expectations. It's a place that is easy to visit but leaves a lasting impression. If you're looking for a beautiful waterfall, an easy hike, and a relaxing outdoor experience, we highly recommend making the trip. We will definitely be coming back again and would gladly bring friends and family to experience it with us.
Jered Johnson
This is a small park with three spectacular waterfalls! Parking is limited to see the falls so come early or late in the evening to avoid the rangers telling you to keep on driving. All the walk-in campsites in Squirrel Loop are amazing! You can buy 🔥 in the park for six dollars per bundle.
Charlene Sagapolu
A beautiful, family-friendly hike with stunning scenery and a peaceful atmosphere. The $10 day pass is cash only, so come prepared. Recommend arriving early, parking fills up quickly. Definitely worth the effort for such a memorable outdoor experience!
Carolyn Haney
If you don't have a park pass, make sure you have $10 in cash. It will get you into 3 parks for the day. I went walking in a few different areas. One had a few campers along the river, but there were several overnight and day spots open. The falls were gorgeous. It was fun to walk behind them to. I am 60, and overweight. I am coming from an elevation that is 2,000. I did find my lungs hurt and I had to stop and sit e erytime there was a table. The ground is flat except the stairs going up the wall. The elevation kicked my butt a bit, but I am glad I went there. It was such a beautiful place.
Jeremiah Pease
It's definitely a must see. And don't park next to the bathrooms on the right, after ranger fee station, rather drive thru camper slips sights straight ahead from ranger fee station and go up to the end. Falls are about a 3 min walk from there, the lower part is ♿ ok, and all the way to the amphitheatre. But not anything else. Saw brook trout swimming in the stream just below the falls. Falls themselves were breathtaking, and awesinspiring. Beaver trail was open past most of the caves, but the beginning of the bocat trail was closed for wildlife and vegetation recovery. And the view from behind the waterfalls wes absolutely B E A Utiful. We drove out for the day, and picnic, with quick turn around to head home. We also took time to go up and check out a couple of other spots which ended up being the very end of the bobcat trail, saw more fish in the streams but no fishing permitted there, and also the fishery above that. All was awesome and again totally worth the drive!
Joseph Leise
Rifle falls state park is a stand alone attraction. The water falls are steps away from the parking lot on a smooth dirt/paved path, with viewing areas all around. The coyote trail is fantastic and features caves and higher scenic areas. We will be back for some camping!
carson peugh
Great little place to visit. I think it's about 20 or 30 minutes off of I-70 but it's well worth the visit. Just a short hike to the falls and it is very easy. There are a few other things to see here like a small cave. You can walk up and around to the top of the falls. It is a little bit harder of a walk to get up there but it's mostly stairs and if you can walk stairs you can probably do it.
Eddie Toledo
An awesome experience. Keep going towards the cascades, it's worth it. The fishery is amazingly keeped clean. The map and what was actually open for a trail was really confusing, ( take pictures of the maps people). Try doing the Bobcat trail and got lost for a minute, but we made it to the cascades. Took a break for some snacks and liquids, ( also took amazing pictures). Got some rain along the way, exactly what to expect in Colorado weather. I would recommend this stop along your visit/drive-thru Colorado I-70. Would recommend camping here. Go to there website for more information. Be safe everyone.
Monica Ayon
Such a beautiful place. No hike needed to see the waterfall but do recommend to walk the trail as it takes you to little caves created around the falls and around to the top of the waterfall and back down to the back of the falls. The water looks so crystal clear. 10/10 recommend such a beautiful landscape.
Ashley Kirk
Pretty great and easy little hike, featuring some amazing views. Came for the waterfalls, fell in love with the caves. Very neat. More garbages would be preferred, since pets are allowed and therefore some garbage accumulates along trail. People should be more respectful and responsible and this wouldn't be an issue. Also, would like more signage indicating which trails/paths lead to where. As well as which caves are safe to enter.
j p
Just beautiful. It's short and sweet, the falls are directly off from the parking lot and the loop around the falls is pretty short. Still, between the caves, the views and the ponds there's plenty to check out.
Doreen O'Donovan
Nice park with interesting things to do like go into many caves. You can’t wade or swim in the stream. In the last week of March there was only snow on the trail in one spot. Stairs are steep in some places. You can fish and you can see the fish.
Robin Marymathew
Rifle Falls State Park is an absolute must-visit! The waterfalls are stunning, with a heavy gush of water flowing from the overhead reservoir, making for a breathtaking sight. Right now is the perfect time to go—less crowded, and the snow has already melted. The park is well-maintained, with clean toilet facilities and plenty of walking space around the falls. If you take the Coyote Trail, it’s a short but exciting hike that leads to multiple caves and a view of the overhead reservoir. The caves are massive, dark, and thrilling to explore. They are marked as bat caves, and if you're feeling adventurous, bring a headlamp and a buddy to explore the eerie depths—I wasn’t fully prepared, but it looked like an unforgettable experience! The park has a peaceful, secluded feel, with the road leading there passing through quiet ranches and open fields. It reminded me a bit of the waterfalls at Hanging Lake but with a unique charm of its own. If you're from Colorado, this is one park you shouldn't miss—I regret not visiting sooner! Be sure to bring food and water, as there aren’t many facilities nearby. Plan to spend at least three hours here to truly soak in the beauty and tranquility. There’s plenty of parking, and pets are allowed on a leash, which is a great bonus. I have no doubt this hidden gem will become more popular in the years to come!
Sav_cc33
What an easy and wonderful experience!! Definitely family friendly. Easy access bathrooms, parking and the trailhead is right next to both. Can’t possibly get lost once you’re in the park and on the trail but the ride there has no reception, though it is beautiful. The caves were so cool to walk in! The waterfalls were stunning, serene. Beware there is spray and you will get wet if you’re close. The trail was VERY icey so spikes are recommended. The trail was shockingly short to get to the falls but the loop is great if you want more than a stroll.
Johnny Hopkins
I can't believe I had never been here before. As much as I go by the creed "Take nothing but photos, leave nothing but footprints, kill nothing but time," I DID concede to the temptation to refill my water bottle with water from the spring. Darned good too. Friendly staff and knowledgeable of local lore and history. If you're a geology nut like me, you'll enjoy the various views and caves. Yet be careful! One of the cave entrances is tight. I'm sure people have become stuck. It was kind of a contortionist trick to get back out, but no worries. This is why I like leather. :-D Oh, and if you visit here, the other parks in the area will recognize your pass! Might as well if you've got the time! Rifle Gap Dam has views of its own!