Hidden Gem Waterfall Hikes, Making your way to Browns Creek Falls near Salida Colorado

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When you think of waterfall hikes in Colorado, there’s only a handful of areas in the entire state that you can find them. The last expected area to find one of all locations is in Chaffee county, near Salida and Buena Vista. Chaffee county has more of a desert feel to it, however there happens to be a roaring waterfall about 30 minutes from downtown Salida. Somewhat off the beaten path you’ll find rocky mountain views, a small stream, and even aspen trees on this hike. If you’re looking for a fun day hike, less trafficked, then this is a great go-to. On this post I’ll be going over trail details, how to access the trail, what to pack, and best time to hike this trail, alright let’s do this!

Where is Browns Creek Falls

The trailhead and parking lot will be off of 285 North in between Salida and Buena Vista. From there you’ll want to get on County Road 271 and then 272. Both county roads are dirt, however you won’t need a high clearance vehicle or anything.

What is parking like

There’s honestly a good amount of parking at this hike and I can’t see it ever getting too overcrowded, but you never know with weekends and holidays. I hiked it on a weekday and the lot had plenty of spots.

Is this an easier hike and how far is it to the falls

I would say it is an easier hike, even families with kids are capable of doing it. With 931 feet of elevation gain it is just under 6 miles out and back.

It’s one of 4 hikes I recommend when staying in Salida for a long weekend or week. The other three being; Waterdog Lakes, Monarch Pass Loop, and the S trail right in downtown Salida.

Best time of year to hike it and what should we pack

June through September and maybe October depending on snowfall. If it’s been a rainy summer there should be some green as you get closer to the falls and because there are aspen trees, late September would be nice for fall colors.

Make sure to pack sunscreen, water, hiking boots, and of course a rain jacket. I also recommend good hiking clothing such as Fjallraven, Patagonia, Arcteryx, and Norrona!

What are the trail details and is this hike worth it

I liked it, mainly because it wasn’t very crowded and not very strenuous either. The only downside is this area seems to be trafficked by horse back riding so there was scat when trekking it.

Download the trail ahead of time on Alltrails and it will help with any navigation issues as you make the trek to the waterfall!

As you go through the gate be prepared for a small amount of elevation gain and soak in the views as you hike up of the San Isabel national forest.

Eventually the trail flattens out and will open up into what feels like a valley before you start to hike through the woods. I like some of the rock formations that you could see from a far on the side of these mountains.

Once you’re in the woods it’s about another half mile, if that, to the waterfall. There will be a sign that says lake or falls. I’d recommend just hiking to the falls, I tried hiking to the lake and it just seemed too far of a hike because I never was able to reach it and didn’t see it mapped on AllTrails.

Depending on rainfall, you will more than likely cross a couple small creeks, one over some logs and the other, over a bridge. As you get closer, you will able to hear the loud roar of the waterfall!

Once you get to the waterfall watch your footing, take a seat on one of the rocks, maybe eat a snack, and just enjoy the something like this not being far from Salida Colorado!

Can you swim in the waterfall area

There are a couple smaller pools at the foot of the waterfall. I personally wouldn’t recommend swimming here for safety reasons, but there aren’t any signs saying that you can’t. It’s more of a place to enjoy the scenery and power of the waterfall.

Any Wildflowers

I didn’t see many, but came across a couple patches and I hiked it in early August. If you’re looking for wildflowers make sure to check out Crested Butte, the wildflower capital!

That’s it for a hike to Browns Creek Falls! If you have any questions or comments drop them below, I always like connecting with people and hearing feedback. See you on the next post!