Rifle Falls State Park is home to three 60-foot waterfalls and lush vegetation that has reportedly drawn photographers and even movie crews from across the country to check out the tropical-like scenery. The park also features mysterious limestone caves and cliffs for visitors to explore. As an added bonus, the waterfalls in this park are quite close to a parking lot, making these scenic view on that’s very accessible.

History of the park:

According to Colorado Parks and Wildlife (CPW), Rifle Falls has been a tourist attraction since 1884. It first opened to ranching in 1883, and cabins were built for tourists to see the falls and explore the caves. James Watson created the Rifle Falls Ranch and charged admission to view the caves and waterfalls. Allan Zerbe operated the Zerbe Resort from 1890 until 1922, offering cabins for overnight visitors.

The town of Rifle built the Rifle Hydroelectric Plant at the falls in 1910, which changed the creek’s flow from one wide waterfall into the three falls it is today. The falls served as a source of hydroelectric power for Rifle from 1908 until 1959.

Rifle Falls became a state park in 1966, and recreation picked up in the area in a big way.

What recreation it’s known for:

Rifle Falls is known for its hiking, waterfalls, and caves. According to CPW, there are three unique hiking trails along the creek, and that go through riparian areas, that access the caves, the top of the falls, and the creek upstream and downstream from the park.

Popular camping/lodging options:

The park features 20 sites near the waterfall that require reservations.

There are also plenty of hotels in nearby Rifle, including the Hampton Inn & Suites Rifle and La Quinta Inn & Suites by Wyndham Rifle.

Popular trails:

Bobcat Trail – 1 mile, non-paved, one way

Squirrel Trail – 1.5 miles, non paved

Coyote Trail – 1.5 miles, non-paved, ADA accessible to the base of the falls

Other things to know:

There are ten individual picnic sites throughout the park. Visitors can also tour the Rifle Falls Fish Hatchery.

Where to eat:

Order Up – this is a casual local spot in Rifle that offers homestyle breakfast and lunch dishes.

Miner’s Claim Restaurant – located in Silt, this is a rustic steakhouse that offers American cuisine, seafood, and more.

Plan your visit to Rifle Falls State Park here.

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