Rifle Falls – Waterfalls You Won’t Want to Miss  [Podcast Ep. 18]

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Listen to This Podcast Episode About Rifle Falls

Welcome to this episode of Tick It Before You Kick It! 🌲🌊 Today, we’re diving into the enchanting world of Rifle Falls, one of Colorado’s hidden gems.

Picture three cascading 70-foot waterfalls, lush hiking trails, and secret caves waiting to be explored.

Whether you’re planning your next adventure or just dreaming of escaping into nature, this guide will give you everything you need to make the most of your visit.

Grab your hiking boots and let’s get started! 🎧✨

In this Episode…

• 0:46 – Small History of Rifle Falls
• 1:41 – What Makes Rifle Falls Special
• 2:40 – Comparison of Rifle Falls and Hanging Lake
• 2:50 – Easy Trails Around the Waterfalls
• 3:37 – Stumbling Upon Caves
• 4:34 – How to Get to Rifle Falls
• 7:34 – Camping at Rifle Gap
• 8:54 – The Best Time to Go
• 11:36 – Accessibility
• 13:04 – Would You Add This To Your Bucket List?

Show Resources to Get You To Rifle Falls

How to Get to Rifle Falls State Park

Unfortunately for out-of-towners, you might need to fly into Denver. You can find flights below👇

Once you find yourself in Denver, you will either have to take a train or rent a car. Again, it is about a 3.5 hour drive. Luckily, the journey will be filled with mountain epic-ness!

Find accommodation near Rifle Falls

Camping

As mentioned in this episode, I did an entire guide on camping at both Rifle Falls State Park as well as Rifle Gap State Park.

And as promised, I scouted out the best spots and these are the winners:

• Rifle Gap: Site #6, electric and water.
• Rifle Falls: Site #4 or #6, water only.

Camping? No Thanks…

Not into camping? No worries, there are several places to stay within Rifle itself. The main town of Rifle is about a 20 minute drive from Rifle Falls State Park.

Read the Full Guide to Rifle Falls

You can also take a look at the brochure 👉 here.

Tour Rifle Falls with a Mermaid

Episode Overview about rifle Falls (Episode 18)

If you think you’ve seen all that Colorado has to offer, it’s time to think again. This week on Tick It Before You Kick It, the Alexandra and her mother take us on a journey to discover one of Colorado’s best-kept secrets: Rifle Falls State Park.

This hidden gem boasts breathtaking triple waterfalls and an array of fascinating caves, all easily accessible and perfect for any nature enthusiast’s adventure bucket list.

Brief History of Rifle Falls

The episode also delves into the historical background of this epic destination. Established in 1966, the area was originally part of a settlement used by early pioneers in the late 1800s.

The natural beauty of the falls has always been the main attraction, drawing visitors from near and far.

Alexandra and her mother discuss how the park’s history adds to its charm, making it a must-visit destination for those interested in both natural beauty and historical significance.

Rifle Falls Location

This CO hidden gem is conveniently located near the towns of Rifle and Glenwood Springs, making it an ideal destination for both locals and travelers.

Alexandra and her mother, who travel full-time in an RV, were initially skeptical about the park’s allure.

However, their doubts quickly dissipated as they found themselves enchanted by the natural beauty that awaited them.

The park’s triple waterfalls, standing 70 feet high, are just a brief two-minute walk from the parking lot, making them easily accessible for visitors of all ages and physical abilities.

For those planning a visit, the episode provides valuable logistical details.

This CO State Park is about 14 miles north of the town of Rifle and approximately 45 minutes away from Glenwood Springs.

The park is accessible via I-70, a major highway in Colorado, making it an easy day trip from Denver or other nearby cities.

However, Alexandra humorously notes the challenges of navigating Colorado’s notoriously rough roads, particularly with a large RV.

Despite these challenges, the destination is well worth the effort.

Trails in Rifle Falls

One of the highlights of the episode is the interconnected trail network that offers multiple vantage points of the falls.

Visitors can explore different angles of the waterfalls, including an option to hike above them for a unique perspective.

The trails are well-maintained and provide a relatively easy hike, making the park a suitable destination for families, casual hikers, and seasoned adventurers alike.

Coyote Trail Stats

• Difficulty: Easy
• Length: 0.7 miles
• Elevation Gain: 82 feet
• Type: Loop

The trail around the waterfall that is mentioned is the Coyote Trail. Alexandra prefers to head to the right of the waterfalls from the bridge and then loop around.

This is due to some steep stairs that are on the left side that might be unsettling for some hikers to climb up. However, you can go either direction.

Caves in Rifle Falls

Additionally, the discovery of several caves near the waterfalls adds an element of surprise and excitement to the visit.

These caves are not just shallow dents in the mountain but offer chambers that visitors can explore, adding a sense of adventure to the experience.

What Else to Do Besides Waterfalls and Caves

The episode also touches on the various activities available at Rifle Falls State Park. In addition to hiking and caving, visitors can enjoy wildlife watching and camping.

Alexandra and her mother stayed at Rifle Gap State Park, located just eight minutes away.

This park offers beautiful green waters for paddleboarding and panoramic lake and mountain views, making it an excellent option for RV travelers.

Rifle Falls itself has 13 camping spots, which fill up quickly, so advance reservations are recommended.

Best Time to Visit Rifle Falls

Timing your visit is crucial for the best experience. The hosts suggest visiting in either summer or winter.

summer at Rifle Falls

Summer offers warm weather and the opportunity to explore the waterfalls and caves comfortably. However, the park can be crowded during this peak season.

It is important to note that the parking lot is small and when it fills up, they start to turn people away. Go on a weekday or early in the morning!

Winter at Rifle Falls

Winter, on the other hand, provides a unique experience as the constant flow of water creates stunning ice structures and caves.

The park’s accessibility makes it possible to visit even in snowy conditions, as the main attractions are just a short walk from the parking lot.

Other Things to Do around the Area

If you are in the area already, it would be a shame to miss the iconic Glenwood Springs and Hanging Lake.

Although more popular, they are, without a doubt, a great addition to your adventure bucket list when you are done with the waterfalls at Rifle Gap.

Would You Add rifle Falls to Your Bucket List?

Overall, this episode is a compelling invitation to explore Rifle Falls State Park. Whether you’re a seasoned traveler or a local looking for a new adventure, this hidden gem in Colorado’s wilderness promises to leave you in awe.

The combination of stunning waterfalls, intriguing caves, and accessible hiking options makes it a destination worth adding to your adventure bucket list.

As Alexandra and her mother conclude their episode, they encourage listeners to step off the beaten path and discover the lesser-known marvels of nature.

Rifle Falls State Park is a testament to the beauty that awaits those who venture beyond the popular tourist spots.

Articles Related to This Episode

• Rifle Falls State Park Guide and Review
• Rifle Gap State Park Guide and Review
• Hanging Lake Guide From a Local
• Glenwood Springs Bucket List
• Colorado Bucket List

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