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Fish Creek Falls: Steamboat's Majestic Cascade

Experience the majesty of a 283-foot waterfall near Steamboat Springs, with trails for all levels and year-round beauty.

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Fish Creek Falls, a stunning 283-foot waterfall, is a must-see destination just a few miles from downtown Steamboat Springs, Colorado. Easily accessible, it offers a variety of trails for all skill levels, showcasing the beauty of the Routt National Forest in both summer and winter.

A brief summary to Fish Creek Falls

  • Monday 6 am-10 pm
  • Tuesday 6 am-10 pm
  • Wednesday 6 am-10 pm
  • Thursday 6 am-10 pm
  • Friday 6 am-10 pm
  • Saturday 6 am-10 pm
  • Sunday 6 am-10 pm

Local tips

  • Visit during late spring or early summer for the most powerful waterfall display due to snowmelt.
  • Arrive early, especially during peak season, as the parking lots can fill up quickly.
  • Bring cash or check for the $5 vehicle day-use fee, or pay online at Recreation.gov.
  • Consider combining both the Overlook Trail and the National Recreation Trail for a scenic one-mile loop.
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Getting There

  • Driving

    From downtown Steamboat Springs, head north on 3rd Street. Turn right onto Fish Creek Falls Road and follow it for approximately 3 miles to the parking area. Be prepared to pay a $5 vehicle day-use fee upon arrival. Credit card, cash and check payments are accepted at the on-site fee station, or you can pay online at Recreation.gov.

  • Public Transportation

    While Steamboat Springs offers a free bus service around town, it does not extend to Fish Creek Falls. Ride-sharing services may be available, but their reliability cannot be guaranteed. Check with your hotel's concierge for possible shuttle options.

Unlock the Best of Fish Creek Falls

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Discover more about Fish Creek Falls

Fish Creek Falls, located a short drive from Steamboat Springs, Colorado, is a breathtaking 283-foot waterfall that plunges down Fish Creek Canyon. The falls are fed by several small lakes in the Rabbit Ears Range, creating a powerful cascade, especially during the spring snowmelt. Visitors can choose from two main trails to experience the falls. The Overlook Trail is a paved, accessible path leading to a viewing station with panoramic views of the falls. For a closer encounter, the National Recreation Trail descends into the U-shaped valley carved by glaciers, leading to the historic Fish Creek Bridge at the base of the falls. Adventurous hikers can continue beyond the bridge to Upper Fish Creek Falls and Long Lake, venturing deeper into the Routt National Forest. Fish Creek Falls is a year-round destination. In the summertime, the area is popular for hiking and picnicking, with wildflowers adding vibrant colors to the landscape. As the weather cools, the falls transform into a winter wonderland, attracting ice climbers and snowshoers. The falls have also been featured as a backdrop in the original Coors beer logo.

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