Who doesn’t find beauty and inspiration in cascading waterfalls? Along with the drama of the waterfall itself, the negative ions released in the water’s spray is enough to energize you and relieve stress.
A simple walk in nature has been shown to have many positive health benefits, so combined with a waterfall, your experience should leave you relaxed and refreshed.
Let’s explore some of the most scenic waterfalls in the Four Corners region that you may want to add to your bucket list.
When to Visit Waterfalls
These waterfalls are on rivers that are fed by snowmelt, which happens in spring and early summer. Depending on the amount of winter snow, the waterfalls can continue roaring into fall.
Summer is a popular time to visit, but will be more crowded with tourists looking to enjoy the same waterfall you plan to experience. If you go on a summer weekend, expect trails and parking to be even more crowded.
Check trail conditions before heading out. Be prepared with sunscreen, good hiking shoes, water, snacks, and make sure you know your route. Take water shoes if you plan to do some wading.
If you have a dog as a hiking buddy, check to see if they’re allowed on the trail and keep him leashed to avoid unfortunate encounters with wildlife or other dogs. Other than that, have your camera ready for some gorgeous shots!
Waterfalls in New Mexico
Jemez Falls is in the Santa Fe National Forest, north of Albuquerque and east of Santa Fe, New Mexico. It’s the highest waterfall in the Jemez Mountains. You can find the trailhead at the Jemez Falls Group Area past the Jemez Falls Campground. A quarter-mile trail takes you to Jemez Falls Overlook, where you can watch the water pour down below you.
Waterfalls in Colorado
A popular waterfall to visit in Colorado is South Mineral Creek Falls not far from Silverton. Part of the San Juan National Forest, this waterfall is famed for its beautiful turquoise water contrasting with the gray and red mountains.
The waterfall drops in two steps, with the first 35 feet, then a second 20-foot drop. If you want to stay longer, check out the South Mineral Forest Service campground.
The small town of Ouray, Colorado, north of Durango and Silverton on U.S. 550, has several waterfalls you can visit, with Box Canyon Falls on the southwest edge of town and Cascade Falls just a quarter-mile hike away from the center of town.
Box Canyon Falls has a dramatic 285-foot drop into a narrow canyon. Another easy-to-reach waterfall from Ouray is Bear Creek Falls. The town’s location in the Uncompahgre National Forest means there’s plenty of other natural beauty and hiking to be explored.
Nearby Telluride is home to Bridal Veil Falls, the tallest free-falling waterfall in Colorado with a height of 365 feet. Not only do people enjoy the spectacular views in warm weather, but some daring souls climb the frozen waterfall in winter!
Hikers can park at the bottom of the falls and either hike up the road or Bridal Veil Falls Trail, where you’ll encounter two more waterfalls.
Another waterfall near Telluride is Bear Creek Falls, reached by a 4.5-mile out-and-back trail.The trailhead can be found at the end of South Pine Street downtown. Bear Creek Falls tumbles 80 feet. From September through spring, snow may be found on the ground and it can be muddy.
Leave No Trace
Remember, whenever you’re exploring nature, to practice the Leave No Trace principles. On these outings, one of the most important is to take out with you anything you bring in, including water bottles, food wrappers, and diapers. Help make sure the waterfall you visit is as beautiful after you leave as before you arrived.
