Hiking Treasure Falls: Pagosa Springs CO

For those of you who have never been to the Western Slope of Colorado – I just want you to know you’re missing out! My favorite area of Colorado is that southwest corner that includes Pagosa Springs, Durango, the Million Dollar Highway, Ouray and Telluride! So if you’re thinking of visiting Colorado, I strongly suggest looking into this area!!

Treasure Falls is located about 15 miles east of Pagosa Springs – one of my favorite small towns in Colorado!  It falls an impressive 105 feet and is less than a half mile from the parking area, which makes it pretty accessible without taking too much time from your day!

Once you’ve seen Treasure Falls, don’t forget to check out Pagosa’s famous hot springs!!

Directions: (from Pagosa Springs) head east on HWY 160 for about 15 miles.  Parking will be well marked directly on your left (eastbound).  There is additional parking around the corner on the westbound side of 160.  Parking can accommodate around 3 travel trailers.

Restrooms: Yes

Distance of Hiking trail: 1/2 mile one way to falls, in and out and loop option

Difficulty: Easy

Elevation Gain: between 200 – 300 feet

Pets OK? Dogs are allowed on leash

Crowds: Seasonal. It was a moderate amount of people this last summer and no people whatsoever in the winter

Fees/Permits: free

Tips:

• There is a trail on either side of the parking lot that takes you to the falls.  The left trail is a better trail with a gradual incline over the switchbacks and a wider path.  The right trail is more narrow and has some pretty steep ascents/descents, as well as a seasonal creek crossing.  It would be better for those who have a little more difficulty hiking to take the left trail in and out.
• The trail can be slippery according to the weather. Tennis shoes or hiking boots would be optimal.
• Some people have suggested bringing bug spray, but I did not have an issue with bugs (my visits were in early June and December)
• There are two observation decks for viewing.  The lower deck is Blowout and the upper is Misty Deck.  Be prepared to get wet either way!
• The waterfall is actually visible from the parking lot on the far right side
• Summertime in Colorado often sees afternoon showers, so be prepared for the possibility!

Below is the first view of the falls from the trail:

In what felt like no time at all, we came to the fork in the road and chose to walk down to Blowout Deck first!

Below is a view from Blowout Deck looking back out toward the pass:

We decided to brave Misty Deck, but I will admit to you that (with a Nikon around my neck) I chickened out and got as far as hiding behind a tree at the Deck.  See my cowardly view of the falls below:

The first time I saw Treasure Falls was in the winter (pictured below).  It was cool to see it all iced over, but I think y’all will agree it’s better in the summer!

We decided to hike the trail as a loop and followed the trail from the opposite side of Blowout Deck.  The above picture is from that side of the trail.

As I said above, the trail on the right side of the parking lot is more narrow and crosses what I would assume is a seasonal creek but could be year round.  We made it through this trail fine, but I think it would pose problems for people with difficulty hiking/getting around.

Props to my sister and my husband for being bada$$es and hiking the trail in flip flops!

We made it back to our car and enjoyed one last look from the Overlook on the far right side of the parking lot:

Overall, a pretty easy hike and a beautiful waterfall!

I’m sure when your hike is done you’ll be as famished as we were! Check out Kip’s Grill and Cantina in Pagosa Springs off HWY 160! They are my very favorite place to eat here!

What do you guys think?? Have you been to Pagosa Springs?? Did you hike this trail?? What other trails should I check out??

Until next time!