Visit Cascade Falls in Ouray, CO!

Ahhhhh, the Million Dollar Highway! I’ve seen Aspen, I’ve seen Vail, Breckenridge and Crested Butte have been done, and still, the Million Dollar Highway-slash-Telluride area is hands down my favorite part of Colorado!

Ok, so I’ve just driven through a lot of those places on day trips… but seriously, this area/Telluride is still the prettiest in my opinion!!

My post for today is going to be short and sweet! It’s based in Ouray, CO. Ouray (which is pronounced “your-ay”) is at the end of the Million Dollar Highway, or as it’s also known as, the “Switzerland of America”. For the past two years we have made our way through the Million Dollar Highway on our way to Telluride, which unfortunately means I have never stopped to spend any significant amount of time in Ouray. The only thing I have made time for there was Cascade Falls, which is located just off Main St.

Cascade Falls is visible from many spots in Ouray as you drive in. It’s just a short hike – so short it can hardly even be called a hike. Really, it’s more of a very steep but short walk! It didn’t take much time out of our trip, and I highly recommend seeing it if you are in the area! There’s really no reason not to!!

Directions: From Main St, head east on 8th street (there will be signs for Cascade Falls).  Drive up to the parking area and voila!

Trail Type: Out and back

Restrooms: No but you are literally just a few blocks from Main St

Distance: 0.3 miles

Difficulty: Moderate – only because it is very steep

Pets OK? Yes

Kid friendly? Pretty kid friendly up to the bridge for sure. After that, the walk up to the bottom of the falls is steep and has loose soil, so maybe not the best mix for toddlers

Crowds: Moderate to heavy depending on the time of year

Fees/Permits: None

Tips:

• Be prepared for a steep walk/drive from Main St…would definitely recommend driving over walking even though it is a short distance
• Hike up past the initial viewing deck to get a closer view!
• Make sure and wear a hat if it’s the summer! The sun is very direct up here!
• …that’s pretty much it. It’s a super short walk lol!

So the above picture shows the bridge right next to the viewing area, and below is looking back from the bridge to the parking lot. As you can see, it’s not far at all!

Above is your view from the deck and below was taken after walking up to it

Below is the path that led you up to the waterfall. It was pretty loose dirt so be careful on your way up!

My husband and dog enjoying the view!

Well, that pretty much wraps it up! Cascade Falls is a nice waterfall and definitely worth the stop! We all enjoyed seeing it before heading on to Telluride!

Don’t forget to leave me a comment and let me know what you guys think!!!

Until next time!!