Chasm Falls: A Rocky Mountain National Park Jewel

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Discover the beauty of Chasm Falls, a roadside gem in Rocky Mountain National Park, offering easy access to stunning natural scenery.

Chasm Falls is a picturesque 25-foot waterfall nestled within Rocky Mountain National Park near Estes Park, Colorado. Easily accessible via a short trail from Old Fall River Road, it's a popular destination for families and those seeking a quick nature escape. The falls cascade through a narrow granite chasm, offering stunning views and a tranquil atmosphere.

A brief summary to Chasm Falls

Estes Park, Colorado, 80517, US

From Eve

Know before you go

Hi, I'm Eve. Here are a few practical things to know before exploring Chasm Falls.

Arrive early, especially during peak season, as parking near the trailhead can be limited.
Check the status of Old Fall River Road before your visit, as it's typically open to vehicles from July through September.
Consider hiking from the Endovalley Picnic Area for a longer, more immersive experience.
Bring water and snacks, especially if you plan to hike.
Be aware of the timed entry permit requirements for Rocky Mountain National Park during certain times of the year.

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Getting There

Driving

From Estes Park, follow Highway 34 west towards Rocky Mountain National Park. Pass the Fall River Entrance Station and continue for approximately 2.1 miles. Turn right onto Endovalley Road and drive 1.7 miles to the Endovalley Picnic Area. From here, you have two options: hike 1.4 miles up Old Fall River Road to the falls or drive up Old Fall River Road if it is open. Note that a timed entry permit may be required to enter the park. Parking is available at the Chasm Falls pull-off or at the Endovalley Picnic Area. Parking at either location can be limited, especially during peak season.
Walking

From the Endovalley Picnic Area, walk back out to Old Fall River Road. Turn right and follow the road uphill for approximately 1.4 miles to reach the Chasm Falls Trailhead. The walk is moderately uphill and takes about 90 minutes. Be aware of vehicle traffic on the road. Once at the trailhead, a short 0.1-mile path leads down to the viewing platform. There are no fees associated with walking to the falls, but a park pass may be required to enter Rocky Mountain National Park.

Discover more about Chasm Falls

Chasm Falls is a captivating waterfall located in Rocky Mountain National Park, near Estes Park, Colorado. This accessible natural attraction offers visitors a chance to witness the power and beauty of the Fall River as it plunges 25 feet through a narrow granite gorge.The falls are easily reached from Old Fall River Road, a historic road that was the first to cross Rocky Mountain National Park. Opened in 1920, the road provides a unique journey through diverse ecosystems, from montane to subalpine, as it winds its way up to Fall River Pass. The road itself is a scenic adventure, with switchbacks and stunning views.Visitors can park at a pull-off along Old Fall River Road and take a short, well-marked trail to a viewing platform. From there, you can admire the falls as they crash through the chasm, creating a mesmerizing spectacle. The viewing platform can get crowded during peak season, so arriving early is recommended.For those seeking a longer hike, Chasm Falls can also be accessed from the Endovalley Picnic Area. This adds about 2.8 miles roundtrip to the journey but offers a pleasant walk through the surrounding landscape. Keep in mind that Old Fall River Road is typically open to vehicles from July through September. During the off-season, you can still hike or bike the road to reach the falls.