Clear and fresh high alpine water roars down Fish Creek Canyon, spilling over the magnificent 280-ft Fish Creek Falls, one of the most popular destinations around Steamboat Springs.
Just minutes from downtown Steamboat, wilderness comes to life with a splash at the legendary falls, easily accessible for the entire family. A short 1/4-mile walk down a gravel path is a pristine view of the lower falls, while a moderate hike with picturesque views will take the more adventurous to Upper Fish Creek Falls and Long Lake, deep in the Routt National Forest.
In the springtime, Fish Creek Falls is at its roaring peak with snowmelt, while in late summer clear water cascades down the smooth rocks. In winter, ice-climbers take to the famous face and hikers snowshoe the trail. There’s no off-season at Fish Creek Falls. Snap a picture here this summer to check off the first item on the Summer Boat List.
Open year round. Daily hours: 6 a.m. to 10 p.m.
Heavy, especially during mid-day
$5 vehicle day use fee - cash or check
Fish Creek Falls is located at 34165 Fish Creek Falls Road. Below is a map and directions from the Steamboat Springs Visitor Center.
From Lincoln Avenue (highway 40) go north on 3rd Street then a right on Fish Creek Falls Road. Four miles to the parking lot and trailhead.
Waterfall Height: 283 Feet
TRAILS |
DISTANCE |
ELEVATION |
Paved wheelchair accessible overlook trail | ¼ mile one way | 7,440 |
Dirt trail to the bridge at the base of falls | ¼ mile one way | 7,340 |
From base to a second waterfall | 2.5 miles one way | 9,000 |
From base to Long Lake | 6.5 miles one way | 9,800 |
Hiking, picnicking, nature viewing, outdoor learning, photography, snowshoeing and ice climbing.
Join Yampatika for a hike at Fish Creek Falls on Thursday, Friday, and Saturday throughout the summer.
Yampatika (snowshoeing and outdoor learning).
Make a splash and discover more of Steamboat's waters this year by clicking below.
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