Rifle Falls State Park Explained

Rifle Falls State Park
Map:USA Colorado
Map Width:260
Location:Garfield County, Colorado, USA
Nearest City:Rifle, Colorado
Coordinates:39.6739°N -107.7°W
Area:48acres
Established:1966
Visitation Num:171,415
Visitation Year:2021
Visitation Ref:[1]
Governing Body:Colorado Parks and Wildlife

Rifle Falls State Park is a Colorado State Park located in Garfield County northeast of Rifle, Colorado. The central feature of the 48acres park is a triple 70feet waterfall flowing over a travertine dam on East Rifle Creek. Commonly seen wildlife includes mule deer, elk, coyote, and golden-mantled ground squirrel. Rainbow and brown trout can be caught in the creek. Limestone cliffs near the falls have a few small caves and three species of bats. Visitor facilities include campsites, picnic sites and 2miles of hiking trails.

Rifle Falls State Park is a very accessible and scenic location. The falls is located approximately 50 yards from the parking area with a relatively flat path adjoining the two areas. It is an easy walk to reach the falls, which are lovely nearly any time of year. The picnic and camping area near the parking lot offers grassy yard, restrooms, and potable water.

There is a short hike which leads up and around the top of the falls. The trail is fairly steep and rocky, but is only about one mile round trip. Along the way there are several caves which visitors can explore. The hike also leads to a rock ledge behind one of the falls offering a lovely (if a little bit misty) view.

References

Notes and References

  1. Web site: 2023 . Colorado State Parks Region Annual Visitation Report . Colorado Counties, Inc..