Waterfall Trails

Waterfall Hikes in Ouray, Colorado

Ouray is surrounded by waterfalls — some a five-minute walk from downtown, others tucked into backcountry canyons accessible only on foot or 4x4 roads.

At a Glance

  • Box Canyon Falls: 285 ft drop
  • Walk from Town: 5–15 min
  • Season: May–October
  • Dog Friendly: Leash Required

Ouray's Most Stunning Waterfalls

Box Canyon Falls plunges 285 feet through a narrow gorge barely 20 feet wide — you can feel the spray from the viewing platform and hear the roar blocks before you arrive. It's one of the most dramatic short hikes in Colorado and costs only a small entrance fee.

Cascade Falls is a gentler alternative, reached by a 2-mile round-trip trail along the Uncompahgre River. The falls spill over wide granite shelves into a series of clear pools popular with photographers.

Backcountry Waterfall Destinations

Twin Falls in Yankee Boy Basin reward hikers willing to earn their views. The road to Yankee Boy Basin passes numerous unnamed falls fed by snowmelt throughout June and July.

Bridal Veil Falls near Telluride (an hour away) is one of Colorado's most iconic — 365 feet tall with a restored powerhouse at the top. Bring a camera and plan for the unexpected on any backcountry waterfall outing.

Your Waterfall Base at The Lumberyard

The Lumberyard Condos is within walking distance of both Box Canyon Falls and Cascade Falls — you can hit two waterfalls before breakfast without moving your car. Our central location makes Ouray's natural highlights genuinely effortless to reach.

Bring your dog, lace up your boots, and book your stay at ouraycondos.com for the best direct rate.

Book Direct — No Platform Fees

Skip Airbnb and VRBO. Book directly at The Lumberyard and save 10–14% in guest service fees on every stay.

55 4th Avenue · Ouray, CO 81427 · 303-588-4472 · moerman120@hotmail.com