Updated July 2026
Bear Creek Falls
Bear Creek Falls cascades down a cliff face in the Uncompahgre National Forest above Telluride, reached by a roughly 4.7-mile out-and-back hike that climbs an old mining road from the end of South Pine Street in town. The trail gains about 1,095 feet, passing through the Bear Creek Preserve.
Before you go
Waterfalls are hazardous by nature — wet rock, cold water, and unstable edges — and flow varies enormously with season and recent rain. Trail figures here describe the route as documented, not conditions today. Check Uncompahgre National Forest (USFS) for closures and current conditions, and confirm land status before setting out.
Frequently Asked Questions
No measured height is on record for Bear Creek Falls in the land-manager and survey sources this inventory draws on. We list it without a height rather than estimating one.
The Bear Creek Trail reaches it about 4.7 miles (out-and-back) with roughly 1,095 feet of elevation gain, rated moderate. The nearest town is Telluride. That describes the route as documented, not conditions on the day — check with Uncompahgre National Forest (USFS) for closures and current conditions.
Late spring to early fall (Jun-Sep). Waterfall flow swings enormously with snowmelt and recent rain, so a fall that roars in spring can be a trickle by late summer.
More Colorado waterfalls
- Adams Falls · 55 ft
- Alberta Falls · 30 ft
- Booth Falls · 60 ft
- Box Canyon Falls · 285 ft
- Bridal Veil Falls · 365 ft
- Bridal Veil Falls (Hanging Lake)
- Cascade Falls (Ouray) · 270 ft
- Chasm Falls · 25 ft
Sources
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