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Nature|Waterfalls

This Tiered Waterfall And Swimming Hole In Colorado Must Be On Your Summer Bucket List

Devil's Punchbowl near Aspen, Colorado, offers a stunning natural swimming hole surrounded by cliffs and waterfalls, perfect for cooling off in the summer.

Updated Apr 26, 2023

Written by 

Annie

Summer in Colorado is a fantastic season. Hiking trails open up, the mountains are more accessible, and the hours of daylight are seemingly endless. Of course, there is one potential downside: the immense heat.

When the weather is warm, there is no better way to cool off than jumping into a beautiful all-natural pool -- especially when the said pool is fed by a tiered waterfall! Where can one find such a scenic gem and place to go swimming in Colorado? Look no further than Devil's Punchbowl. We recommend this Colorado swimming hole that must be on your summer bucket list:

Welcome to the sinful-sounding yet oh-so-divine Devil's Punchbowl!

A person jumps into a clear, green pool surrounded by large rocks and trees in a natural setting.
TripAdvisor/PaultheAdvisor

Tucked away just off Independence Pass near Aspen, the Devil's Punchbowl is one of the most picture-perfect spots in the Centennial State and features 10-to-25-foot-high cliffs encompassing beautiful blue water.

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A group of people on rocky cliffs near a river, with one person jumping into the water below. Lush greenery surrounds the scene.
TripAdvisor/garbagecollector

Doesn't this super-cold water look so inviting on a hot summer day?

A serene rocky landscape featuring a small waterfall flowing into a dark pool surrounded by lush greenery.
TripAdvisor/logandiana

Please note: It is essential to use caution if diving off the cliff. Before jumping in, be sure the landing is free of other swimmers.

Two people sit on rocky ledges by a river, surrounded by trees and boulders, with water flowing below.
TripAdvisor/flickrmac

As if the dramatic cliffs surrounding the pool were not incredible enough, the intricate waterfalls that feed the swimming hole (via the Roaring Fork River) make the area even more jaw-dropping.

A scenic waterfall cascades down rocky cliffs into a clear pool, surrounded by lush greenery and rugged terrain.
TripAdvisor/Thomas K

Located within the White River National Forest, the swimming hole and waterfall are accessible via an easy 2.2-mile trail that is best used between April and September.

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A mountain goat standing on a rocky outcrop against a clear blue sky.
TripAdvisor/Jeremy B

To learn more about the Devil's Punchbowl and everything else to see and do in the area, visit Travel Crested Butte's website.

A rocky landscape with a flowing river surrounded by trees and boulders, creating a serene natural scene.
TripAdvisor/Management

The Devil's Punchbowl can be found just past mile marker 50 on Independence Pass Road (Highway 82).

A serene river flows between rocky cliffs, surrounded by lush green trees under a clear blue sky.
TripAdvisor/PaultheAdvisor

Looking for a little travel inspiration? Check out the brief video below, which showcases some epic cliff-jumping at Devil's Punchbowl. This video footage really shows off just how beautifully blue the water at this Colorado swimming hole is. Trust us -- you'll be planning your trip there in no time!

Have you ever visited Devil's Punchbowl? If so, feel free to share your thoughts and experiences with us in the comments below -- we would love to hear all about your adventures there! For even more of our favorite places to go swimming in Colorado, check out these unforgettable lakes and other Colorado swimming holes.

Do you have a favorite attraction, event, or restaurant that you would like to see featured here on Only in Colorado? Remember to nominate it here! 

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Nature|Waterfalls

It’s Worth Driving Across Colorado To See This Stunning Waterfall For Yourself

Published Jul 19, 2024

Written by 

Christy Articola

Do you love waterfalls? Of course you do! If you want to see one of the most impressive waterfalls in Colorado, then you'll love this trail to Fish Creek Falls. We think that it's not only one of the best waterfalls near Steamboat Springs, Colorado, but that it's one of the best waterfalls in the whole state! The trail is rated difficult, but the prize at the end is well worth the effort. Read on to learn more about it and start planning your trip.

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Look at this beautiful waterfall! Fish Creek Falls is breathtakingly beautiful. It's 280 feet tall, and for most of the year, you can see it flowing with great gusto.

A cascading waterfall surrounded by lush green trees and rocky terrain, with a river flowing in the foreground.
David Blaine/Google Reviews

You can hike just a short distance on a paved trail to see Lower Fish Creek Falls if you'd like, or you can hike the 4.5-mile out-and-back trail to view the spectacular Upper Fish Creek Falls.

A wooden signpost in a forest, indicating directions to Fish Creek Falls and Long Lake, with mountains in the background.
Keith Youngblood/Google Reviews

After the first waterfall, this trail gets rather challenging. Over the course of your route, you'll experience 1,437 feet of elevation gain.

Map of Fish Creek Falls Recreation Area, showing trails, overlooks, and key features in Routt National Forest.
Kristin Fifield/Google Reviews

It's uphill the whole way after the first half mile.

However, en route, you'll be able to view incredible scenery that should keep your mind occupied. You'll pass through forests.

A person in a yellow jacket walks along a forest trail surrounded by tall trees and vibrant greenery.
Dana Davidson/Google Reviews

You'll pass through open spaces.

A scenic view of a lush green valley surrounded by trees under a partly cloudy sky.
Jimmy Fairchild/Google Reviews

You'll be soothed by the relaxing sounds of the creek.

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Close-up of a textured tree trunk with a lush forest and a flowing stream in the background under a blue sky.
Jeanette Weiser/Google Reviews

You'll probably encounter some local wildlife.

A squirrel sitting on a rock, holding food with its paws, in a sunny outdoor setting.
David de la Junta/Google Reviews

And, if you do this hike during the warmer months of the year, you'll love looking at all the beautiful wildflowers.

A cluster of small yellow flowers surrounded by green leaves, set against a blurred background.
Jo Owens Murray/Google Reviews

Just before reaching Fish Creek Falls, you'll cross this bridge. It's a great spot for taking photos.

Two people and a dog walk towards a wooden bridge near a waterfall surrounded by lush green trees.
Jo Owens Murray/Google Reviews

You can get closer to the falls too, though. Spend some time relaxing by the water before you start your descent back to your car.

A waterfall cascades down rocky terrain, with two people near the water's edge surrounded by trees and nature.
Alexei Yanuaria/Google Reviews

The views are just as exceptional on the return trip - and it's downhill all the way.

A scenic trail surrounded by colorful autumn trees, leading towards a mountain under a partly cloudy sky.
Randy Martin/Google Reviews

This hike is a memorable one at any time of the year. You'll love it in spring, summer, and fall. If you attempt it in the winter, though, it will be even more challenging. Be sure to come prepared with the proper equipment, and know ahead of time that this area may be prone to avalanches. Be safe out there!

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It's easy to see why we think that Fish Creek Falls is one of the best waterfalls near Steamboat Springs, Colorado and one of the best waterfalls in the state! You're going to love the falls and this hike overall. It's certainly worth driving across Colorado to see Fish Creek Falls. Have a great hike!

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Nature|Waterfalls

The Bear Creek Falls Trail Is One Of The Best Waterfall Hikes In Colorado

Published Jun 28, 2024

Written by 

Christy Articola

Looking to go on a hike to a spectacular waterfall this year? The trail to Bear Creek Falls near Telluride, Colorado is an excellent choice! This is one of the best waterfall hikes in Colorado and you're going to love everything about it. Not only is there an incredible, 80-foot waterfall at the end of this trail, but the entire journey is breathtakingly beautiful. This hike offers some of the best nature immersion that Colorado can provide. Read on to learn more about it and get ready to take it on!

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Do you like waterfall trails? If so, you're going to love this one!

A stunning waterfall cascades down rocky cliffs, surrounded by lush green trees and towering mountains under a clear blue sky.
Troy Badger/Google Reviews

You can reach Bear Creek Falls by hopping on the trail at the end of South Pine Street in Telluride, Colorado by hiking the Bear Creek Trail. You can hop in this trail in Telluride and then you'll hike mostly uphill for 2.3 miles to the waterfall.

A dirt path winds through lush green trees, leading towards snow-capped mountains under a clear blue sky.
Stacy Albin/AllTrails

This hike is rated moderate and is very well-rated by hikers who have already completed it. It's uphill and you'll gain about 1,000 feet of elevation during your ascent to the falls, but the prize at the end of the trail makes the effort well worth it.

A scenic mountain landscape featuring green trees, a field of yellow flowers, and snow-capped peaks under a blue sky.
Linda Phillips/AllTrails

Along the way, you'll get to see beautiful vistas like this one. They'll keep you happy and moving forward!

A scenic view of a mountainous landscape with lush greenery and a clear blue sky, seen from a wooden overlook.
Meera Aminova/Google Reviews

You'll be amazed at the spectacular mountains that surround you on your hike.

A rugged mountain landscape with steep cliffs, patches of snow, and lush green trees in the foreground.
Bryce Jones/AllTrails

This trail is open all year. During the warmer months, you'll likely see lots of wildflowers and wildlife along the way, too.

Vibrant red wildflowers grow beside a twisted aspen tree in a lush green forest.
Laura Freese/AllTrails

When you finally reach the falls, you'll feel rewarded! This 80-foot cascading waterfall is amazing.

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A stunning waterfall cascades down rocky cliffs, surrounded by lush green trees and mountains under a blue sky.
Chloe Ciotti/AllTrails

This is one of the most beautiful waterfalls in Colorado! You'll surely want to spend some time here before heading back down the trail the same way you came to return to your car. Enjoy!

A stunning waterfall cascades down rocky cliffs, surrounded by lush green trees and a bright blue sky.
Kyle Jackson/Google Reviews

The trail to Bear Creek Falls near Telluride, Colorado is a fantastic trail that everyone should try! You'll love the journey just as much as the destination. Have a great hike!

Need some hiking gear for your adventure? Check out Colorado-based REI.com for all your outdoor gear needs!

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