Just a short distance from the desert vistas that dominate western Colorado, Rifle Falls feels as though it would be more at home in Hawaii or the Pacific Northwest. Three powerful waterfalls tumble side by side over a travertine dam, spilling 70 feet into the pool below. Fed by a seemingly limitless supply of water, lush mosses, wildflowers, and other plants give the scene a verdant vibrance.
Rifle Falls has worn many hats throughout its history. In the 19th century, the river was used as a source of water for crop irrigation. In 1910, the city of Rifle built a hydroelectric plant above the falls. This process ended up splitting what was once one large waterfall into the three falls seen today. Later, a fish hatchery was opened further upstream. Finally, in 1966, Rifle Falls was opened as a Colorado state park.
In addition to the falls, there are a number of limestone caves to explore. The largest extends over fifty feet, and requires a flashlight and an affinity for tight spaces to navigate. There’s even a few on a ledge behind the falls themselves, which is constantly engulfed in a fine mist.
Be prepared to get a little damp.
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