Zapata Falls: A Hidden Waterfall Oasis
Discover a hidden waterfall oasis near Great Sand Dunes National Park. Hike through a cool canyon to a unique cave with a 25-foot waterfall!
Discover Zapata Falls, a unique 25-foot waterfall tucked away in a rocky cave near Great Sand Dunes National Park in Colorado. The short hike to the falls involves wading through a chilly stream, offering a refreshing escape, especially during the hot summer months. In winter, the falls transform into a stunning ice column, attracting ice climbers.
A brief summary to Zapata Falls
- Zapata Falls Trail, Mosca, Colorado, 81146, US
- +1719-852-7074
- Visit website
Local tips
- Wear water shoes or shoes you don't mind getting wet for the final approach, as you'll be wading through a cold stream.
- Visit during the summer for a refreshing escape from the heat, or in the winter to witness the frozen waterfall.
- Arrive early, especially on weekends and afternoons, as parking is limited.
- Bring a towel to dry off after wading through the creek.
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 State Highway 150 and drive north for 10.5 miles. Look for the sign and road for Zapata Falls on your right. The road to the parking area is a rough, gravel road that is steep in some places. Passenger cars are generally fine, but drive slowly. Parking is free at the trailhead. Parking is limited and can be busy on weekends and afternoons. Overflow parking is available on the road.
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Walking
From the parking lot, follow the well-marked trail for approximately 0.5 miles (800 m). The trail is mildly steep and has some loose gravel and rocks. As you approach the falls, the trail narrows and you'll need to wade through the cold waters of Zapata Creek to reach the cave and view the waterfall. Be cautious of slippery rocks.
Discover more about Zapata Falls
Iconic landmarks you can’t miss
Great Sand Dunes Parking
13.7 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
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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
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Amelia Earhart Memorial
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La Veta Pass-Uptop Historic District
31.0 km
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Sbarro
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State Ave River Trail access
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Alamosa City Hall
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Alamosa Public Library
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Nino's Del Sol LLC
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Knee Knockers Bar & Grill
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Mi Taquito
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Sangre de Cristo National Heritage Area
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The Carver House
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Unmissable attractions to see
Zapata Falls Trailhead
0.5 km
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Zapata Falls Campground
0.5 km
High-altitude camping with stunning views & a hidden waterfall near Great Sand Dunes National Park in the San Luis Valley.
Zapata Ranch Preserve
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Zapata Ranch
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Great Sand Dunes Oasis
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Mountain Master Off-Road Tours
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Great Sand Dunes Visitor Center
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Wellington Ditch Trail
13.3 km
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Piñon Flats Campground
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Star Dune
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Blanca Wetlands, BLM
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San Luis State Wildlife Area
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Great Sand Dunes National Park and Preserve
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Escape Dunes
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Indian Grove
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Essential places to dine
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Country Kitchen - Alamosa
31.0 km
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4th Street Grille
32.0 km
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El Super Taco
32.0 km
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Hunan
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All Valley Cafe
32.1 km
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Thai House
32.2 km
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Mammoth Spud Cafe
32.3 km
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Thai Hut
32.4 km
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Pizza Hut
32.5 km
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Siam Cuisine Alamosa Thai & Sushi
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Domino's Pizza
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Pizza Hut Express
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Sonic Drive-In
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Campus Café
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Markets, malls and hidden boutiques
Great sand dunes Oasis sled rental
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SpinDrift SandBoards
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Red Rock General Store
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Primitive Road Campsites
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Sinclair Gas Station
28.1 km
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Heaven To Home
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Dagglebeez
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Sand Dunes Recreation
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Alamosa Cycles
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Mijares Boutique
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Habitat For Humanity ReStore Alamosa
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Hunt Avenue Boutique
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Wild Roses
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Rainbow's End Thrift Store
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Essential bars & hidden hideouts
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Rustic Rook Resort
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The Hooper Junction & Ruby Rose Bakery / Cafe
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The Steel Box Bar
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The Sanctuary
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Bank Shot Sports Bar & Pool Hall
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Alpine Lodge
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Crafty Canary Brewery
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Mellow Moon Lodge
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Bernies Bar
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Defiance Night Club
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McClure's Saloon at World's End
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The Handlebar
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My Brother's Place
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