Uncompahgre Falls

Uncompahgre Falls at Uncompahgre National Forest near Ouray, Colorado is a moderate 0.1-mile out-and-back hike that leads to the mountainside waterfall known in the Uncompahgre River, Uncompahgre Falls, and a view of the Ouray valley.

Hike
This very short hike begins on the west side of the Million Dollar Highway, near the coordinates provided, and leads downhill along an unnamed dirt trail. Hikers must be careful as the dirt path leads in and around very steep drop-offs and cliff areas. The trail leads down alongside the Uncompahgre River to reach a beautiful view from the top of Uncompahgre Falls. The waterfall tumbles down the mountainside in a deafening roar along a multitude of tiers to reach the valley below. You'll also find stunning views of Ouray and the valley below with towering mountains surrounding the town. This route leads southward slightly to check if there was a better or more-expansive view of the waterfall, but I mostly ran into steep and sketchy terrain instead. I hiked back up the hill, crossed the Million Dollar Highway, and found a nice view of the small waterfalls and cascades within the Uncompahgre River from the east side of the highway before heading back to parking.

Parking
Hikers will find a small parking turnout at the coordinates provided, along the Million Dollar Highway. The turnout is large enough to fit a half-dozen vehicles as of June 2024 and is one of the last parking turnouts before the "no stopping" section of the highway located just south of here.

Pets
Dogs are allowed only if leashed and should be cleaned up after.

Warning
Steep terrain: This trail leads near steep terrain, located alongside a massive mountainside waterfall. Watch your step and give yourself a bit more room than you think you need especially around fast-moving water.