Zapata Falls: A Hidden Waterfall Oasis
Discover Zapata Falls: A hidden Colorado oasis with stunning views, a refreshing waterfall, and a unique hiking experience near the Great Sand Dunes.
Zapata Falls is a unique 25-foot waterfall hidden inside a rocky crevice near the Great Sand Dunes National Park. A short hike and a wade through a chilly stream reveal this refreshing oasis, offering stunning views of the San Luis Valley and the Sangre de Cristo Mountains.
A brief summary to Zapata Falls
- Colorado, US
Local tips
- Wear shoes that can get wet and have good traction for walking on slippery rocks in the creek.
- Visit during sunrise or sunset for the best light and views of the Great Sand Dunes and San Luis Valley.
- Be prepared for cold water, especially during spring runoff. Bring extra socks and a towel.
- Arrive early, especially on weekends, as the parking lot can fill up quickly.
Getting There
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Driving
From Alamosa, drive east on US Highway 160 for 15 miles until you see signs for Great Sand Dunes National Park. Turn left onto Colorado 150 and drive north for 10.5 miles. The signed turnoff for Zapata Falls will be on your right. The road to the parking lot is a rough, steep gravel road for 3 miles. Passenger cars are generally fine, but drive slowly. Parking is free.
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Walking
From the parking lot, follow the well-marked trail for approximately 0.5 miles. The trail is mostly flat and easy to navigate until you reach Zapata Creek. To reach the falls, you must wade through the creek, walking over wet and slippery rocks. Use caution and wear appropriate footwear. The falls are located inside the cave at the end of the creek bed.
Discover more about Zapata Falls
Iconic landmarks you can’t miss
Great Sand Dunes Parking
13.8 km
Discover the breathtaking landscapes of the Great Sand Dunes National Park, the tallest dunes in North America, from this convenient parking area.
Sierra Blanca Historical Information Panels
16.3 km
Uncover the rich history of Alamosa at the Sierra Blanca Historical Information Panels, where stories of the past come alive amidst stunning landscapes.
The Secret Garden and Grotto
28.3 km
Explore the beauty of nature at The Secret Garden and Grotto, a tranquil escape in Alamosa, Colorado, perfect for relaxation and inspiration.
Amelia Earhart Memorial
30.9 km
Visit the Amelia Earhart Memorial in Alamosa, Colorado, and immerse yourself in the history of aviation while enjoying breathtaking mountain views.
La Veta Pass-Uptop Historic District
30.9 km
Explore the rich history and breathtaking scenery at La Veta Pass-Uptop Historic District, a hidden gem in Colorado's stunning landscapes.
Sbarro
31.3 km
Savor the authentic taste of Italy at Sbarro in Alamosa, offering delicious pizza, pasta, and more in a friendly, casual atmosphere.
State Ave River Trail access
31.9 km
Immerse yourself in the natural beauty of Alamosa at the State Ave River Trail, featuring scenic paths and abundant wildlife for an unforgettable hiking experience.
Alamosa City Hall
31.9 km
Explore the historic Alamosa City Hall, a charming civic landmark that reflects the community's heritage and dedication to public service.
Alamosa Public Library
31.9 km
Discover the Alamosa Public Library, a welcoming space in Colorado that offers resources, community events, and cultural insights for visitors and locals.
Nino's Del Sol LLC
32.0 km
Experience the vibrant tastes of Latin cuisine at Nino's Del Sol in Alamosa, Colorado, where every dish tells a story of culture and flavor.
Knee Knockers Bar & Grill
32.0 km
Discover the heart of American cuisine at Knee Knockers Bar & Grill in Alamosa—where every meal is a delicious adventure amidst stunning Colorado scenery.
Calvillo's Mexican Restaurant
32.0 km
Experience the authentic taste of Mexico at Calvillo's Mexican Restaurant, Alamosa's favorite spot for delicious cuisine and mouthwatering desserts.
Mi Taquito
32.0 km
Experience authentic Mexican cuisine at Mi Taquito in Alamosa, where delicious flavors and fast service await every visitor.
Sangre de Cristo National Heritage Area
32.1 km
Discover the breathtaking landscapes and rich cultural heritage of the Sangre de Cristo National Heritage Area in Colorado, a true gem for every traveler.
The Carver House
32.2 km
Discover Alamosa's business landscape at The Carver House, where office space rental meets the charm of Colorado's stunning landscapes.
Unmissable attractions to see
Zapata Falls Trailhead
0.6 km
Discover the hidden beauty of Zapata Falls near the Great Sand Dunes. A short hike to a refreshing and unique waterfall experience in Colorado.
Zapata Falls Campground
0.7 km
High-altitude camping with stunning views & a hidden waterfall near Great Sand Dunes National Park in the San Luis Valley.
Zapata Ranch Preserve
4.3 km
Explore a unique Colorado landscape where conservation meets ranching, bordering the Great Sand Dunes National Park.
Zapata Ranch
5.2 km
Experience the American West at Zapata Ranch: a unique blend of ranching, conservation, and stunning landscapes near Great Sand Dunes National Park.
Great Sand Dunes Oasis
8.2 km
Your adventure begins here! Campground, cabins, restaurant, and store at the entrance to Great Sand Dunes National Park and Preserve.
Mountain Master Off-Road Tours
10.9 km
Experience the thrill of off-road adventures and the stunning landscapes of Colorado with Mountain Master Off-Road Tours, your gateway to the great outdoors.
Great Sand Dunes Visitor Center
13.2 km
Start your adventure at Great Sand Dunes National Park with interactive exhibits, expert advice, and essential resources at the Visitor Center.
Wellington Ditch Trail
13.4 km
An easy, scenic trail in Great Sand Dunes National Park, following a historic ditch with views of dunes and mountains.
Piñon Flats Campground
14.7 km
Camp beneath the towering dunes and majestic peaks at Great Sand Dunes National Park's premier campground.
Star Dune
14.8 km
Hike North America's tallest dune at Great Sand Dunes National Park for panoramic views and a challenging desert experience.
Blanca Wetlands, BLM
15.3 km
Discover a restored wetland paradise in the San Luis Valley, teeming with diverse birdlife and unique natural beauty. Open July 16 to February 14.
San Luis State Wildlife Area
17.3 km
Discover stunning views, camping, fishing, and wildlife near Great Sand Dunes National Park at San Luis State Wildlife Area in Colorado.
Great Sand Dunes National Park and Preserve
17.5 km
Explore the breathtaking beauty and adventure at Great Sand Dunes National Park and Preserve, where towering dunes meet stunning mountain landscapes.
Escape Dunes
17.7 km
Discover solitude and stunning views at Escape Dunes, a backcountry camping spot in Great Sand Dunes National Park.
Indian Grove
19.3 km
Discover a unique blend of nature and Native American history at Indian Grove, where scarred ponderosa pines whisper tales of the past.
Essential places to dine
The Great Sand Dunes Oasis Restaurant
8.2 km
Experience delicious American cuisine surrounded by breathtaking views at The Great Sand Dunes Oasis Restaurant near Colorado's iconic sand dunes.
Country Kitchen - Alamosa
31.1 km
Discover comfort food at Country Kitchen in Alamosa – where family-friendly dining meets delicious American breakfasts.
4th Street Grille
32.0 km
Discover the delicious blend of American comfort food, refreshing bubble tea, and delightful ice cream at Alamosa's 4th Street Grille.
El Super Taco
32.0 km
Experience authentic Mexican flavors at El Super Taco in Alamosa – where every dish tells a story.
Hunan
32.1 km
Experience authentic Chinese cuisine and fresh sushi at Hunan in Alamosa - a culinary journey awaits!
All Valley Cafe
32.1 km
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Thai House
32.2 km
Experience authentic Thai cuisine in Alamosa at Thai House - where every dish tells a story of flavor and tradition.
Mammoth Spud Cafe
32.3 km
Experience deliciously creative potato dishes at Mammoth Spud Cafe in Alamosa, Colorado - where every bite tells a story.
Thai Hut
32.4 km
Discover authentic Thai flavors in Alamosa at Thai Hut – where every dish tells a story.
Pizza Hut
32.6 km
Enjoy delicious pizza and chicken wings at Pizza Hut in Alamosa - perfect for families and travelers craving comfort food.
Siam Cuisine Alamosa Thai & Sushi
32.7 km
Experience authentic Thai cuisine in Alamosa at Siam Cuisine – where every dish tells a story of flavor and tradition.
Domino's Pizza
32.9 km
Discover delicious pizza and chicken wings at Domino's Pizza in Alamosa - your go-to spot for tasty takeout!
Pizza Hut Express
33.0 km
Discover delicious pizzas at Pizza Hut Express in Alamosa - the perfect stop for hungry travelers seeking quick bites.
Sonic Drive-In
33.1 km
Discover Sonic Drive-In in Alamosa: A classic fast food experience with delicious burgers and refreshing drinks perfect for every traveler.
Campus Café
33.1 km
Experience the heartwarming flavors of America at Campus Café - Alamosa's top destination for delicious breakfasts and friendly service.
Markets, malls and hidden boutiques
Great sand dunes Oasis sled rental
8.2 km
Experience the thrill of sliding down the majestic Great Sand Dunes at Oasis Sled Rental in Alamosa, Colorado – a true outdoor adventure awaits!
SpinDrift SandBoards
20.7 km
Discover the thrill of sandboarding in Blanca, Colorado, at SpinDrift SandBoards, your go-to spot for equipment rental and outdoor adventure.
Red Rock General Store
20.7 km
Explore Red Rock General Store in Blanca, Colorado for unique specialty goods, rare beers, and a friendly shopping experience.
Primitive Road Campsites
24.3 km
Discover the tranquility of Primitive Road Campsites amidst Colorado's stunning Rocky Mountain landscapes, perfect for camping and outdoor adventures.
Sinclair Gas Station
28.2 km
Discover convenience and local charm at Sinclair Gas Station in Mosca, your go-to stop for fuel and essentials on your Colorado adventure.
Heaven To Home
31.0 km
Discover unique home goods and local craftsmanship at Heaven To Home in Alamosa, Colorado, perfect for enhancing your space or finding the ideal gift.
Dagglebeez
31.4 km
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Alamosa Cycles
32.1 km
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Tienda Y Comida Guatemala Shaloom
32.1 km
Discover the flavors of Guatemala at Tienda Y Comida Guatemala Shaloom in Alamosa, CO - a delightful blend of convenience and authentic cuisine.
Mijares Boutique
32.1 km
Explore Mijares Boutique in Alamosa, where unique fashion meets local artistry, perfect for finding distinct gifts and souvenirs.
Sand Dunes Recreation
32.1 km
Experience the perfect blend of relaxation and adventure at Sand Dunes Recreation, a family-friendly oasis in Colorado featuring a heated pool, restaurant, and gift shop.
Habitat For Humanity ReStore Alamosa
32.1 km
Uncover hidden gems and support a noble cause at the Habitat For Humanity ReStore in Alamosa, where every purchase helps build homes.
Hunt Avenue Boutique
32.2 km
Explore Hunt Avenue Boutique, Alamosa's charming antique store filled with unique treasures and nostalgic finds that capture the essence of Colorado's history.
Wild Roses
32.2 km
Explore Wild Roses, a charming gift shop in Alamosa, offering antiques, vintage clothing, and festive treasures for every occasion.
Rainbow's End Thrift Store
32.2 km
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Essential bars & hidden hideouts
Great Sand Dunes Lodge
8.2 km
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Rustic Rook Resort
21.8 km
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The Hooper Junction & Ruby Rose Bakery / Cafe
32.0 km
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Prep Fuel SLV
32.0 km
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The Steel Box Bar
32.1 km
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The Sanctuary
32.2 km
Discover The Sanctuary in Alamosa, where delicious coffee meets creative cocktails in a cozy, welcoming atmosphere.
Bank Shot Sports Bar & Pool Hall
33.2 km
Discover the vibrant ambiance of Bank Shot Sports Bar & Pool Hall, Alamosa's go-to destination for sports, games, and great drinks.
Alpine Lodge
51.1 km
Discover the charm and flavors of Alpine Lodge in Westcliffe, Colorado, where rustic ambiance meets exquisite cuisine.
Crafty Canary Brewery
68.0 km
Experience the best craft beers and local flavors at Crafty Canary Brewery in Walsenburg, Colorado, a must-visit for every traveler.
Mellow Moon Lodge
70.2 km
Experience tranquility and charm at Mellow Moon Lodge, your ideal retreat in Del Norte, Colorado, surrounded by stunning natural beauty and adventure.
Bernies Bar
94.2 km
Bernies Bar in Cañon City, Colorado: Your go-to spot for great drinks, friendly faces, and a welcoming atmosphere in the heart of the Royal Gorge.
Defiance Night Club
95.3 km
Experience the energetic nightlife at Defiance Night Club in Cañon City, Colorado, where fun, music, and great drinks await.
McClure's Saloon at World's End
95.3 km
Experience the vibrant atmosphere and local charm at McClure's Saloon in Cañon City, Colorado, where great drinks and friendly faces await.
The Handlebar
95.3 km
Discover The Handlebar in Cañon City, where delicious food and a cozy atmosphere await travelers seeking a memorable dining experience.
My Brother's Place
95.6 km
Experience the warmth and charm of My Brother's Place, a local bar in Cañon City, offering an extensive drink menu and a friendly atmosphere for all.
