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Rifle Falls State Park
4.8 ★★★★★ 2,760 Google reviews · Running trail in Rifle, Colorado · Posted hours
Runner's snapshot
- Surface
- Natural surface
- Loop distance
- Not reported
- Shape
- Loop
- Shade
- Not reported
- Access
- Posted hours
Confirmed from Rifle Falls State Park's own listing, the park or land manager's website, and runner reviews. Blank cells mean we could not verify that fact — we would rather say "not reported" than invent one. There is no Easy / Moderate / Hard rating on this page on purpose: a one-word difficulty score tells you nothing about whether a trail suits your run. Surface, distance, shade and hours do.
What runners say about Rifle Falls State Park
“The trails around the park are easy to walk and well maintained.”
“Located approximately 180 miles from Denver, this park is famous for its triple waterfall, one of the most beautiful and scenic waterfalls in Colorado.”
“The sound of the rushing water and the cool mist in the air made the whole area feel peaceful and refreshing.”
“If you're looking for a beautiful waterfall, an easy hike, and a relaxing outdoor experience, we highly recommend making the trip.”
This is a very nice little park. The waterfalls were very cold but scenic. It was a very short walk to the falls. The cave was also a short walk. It was later in the evening so we didn't spend too long in the park and didn't hike the entire trail.
Rifle falls state park is a stand alone attraction. The water falls are steps away from the parking lot on a smooth dirt/paved path, with viewing areas all around. The coyote trail is fantastic and features caves and higher scenic areas. We will be back for some camping!
Such a beautiful place. No hike needed to see the waterfall but do recommend to walk the trail as it takes you to little caves created around the falls and around to the top of the waterfall and back down to the back of the falls. The water looks so crystal clear. 10/10 recommend such a beautiful landscape.
This waterfall felt like a hidden gem in Colorado. I loved the mysterious frozen world—it was stunning and surreal. It also made me appreciate how strongly life survives in the wild. Just a heads-up: it’s very slippery.
Trail conditions & character
“Located approximately 180 miles from Denver, this park is famous for its triple waterfall, one of the most beautiful and scenic waterfalls in Colorado.”
“Parking is limited to see the falls so come early or late in the evening to avoid the rangers telling you to keep on driving.”
“The sound of the rushing water and the cool mist in the air made the whole area feel peaceful and refreshing.”
“There’s a trail walk that takes you for a loop around the falls.”
Plan your run at Rifle Falls State Park
The practical stuff
- AccessPosted hours — posted hours below; park gates sometimes close earlier than the listing says
- SurfaceNatural surface — easiest on the joints and the most fun, but expect roots, rocks and mud after rain
- DistanceNot reported. Trail systems often quote total path mileage rather than a single loop, so measure the route you actually want before you drive out.
- ShadeNot reported. Assume some of it is exposed and carry water in summer.
- At the trailheadparking, restrooms — reported by runners
- DogsWelcome, per reviewers. Leash rules vary by park — the trailhead sign is the authority.
- Websitecpw.state.co.us
- Phone+1 970-625-1607
- Social Instagram · Facebook
Hours
| Monday | 8 am–10 pm |
| Tuesday | 8 am–10 pm |
| Wednesday | 8 am–10 pm |
| Thursday | 8 am–10 pm |
| Friday | 8 am–10 pm |
| Saturday | 8 am–10 pm |
| Sunday | 8 am–10 pm |
Running trails near Rifle
Other trails within easy driving distance — useful when this one is flooded, gated, or just not the run you had in mind today.
