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Fish Creek Falls

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.

Fish Creek Falls SummerIn 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.

Operational Hours

Open year round. Daily hours: 6 a.m. to 10 p.m.

Use

Heavy, especially during mid-day

Fees

$5 vehicle day use fee - cash or check

Location

Fish Creek Falls is located at 34165 Fish Creek Falls Road. Below is a map and directions from the Steamboat Springs Visitor Center.

Directions

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.

Trail Information

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

Upper Fish Creek Falls is accessible from the Fish Creek Falls Trail Head located outside of Steamboat Springs, Colorado

Activities

Hiking, picnicking, nature viewing, outdoor learning, photography, snowshoeing and ice climbing.

Summer Tours

Join Yampatika for a hike at Fish Creek Falls on Thursday, Friday, and Saturday throughout the summer.

Winter Tours

Yampatika (snowshoeing and outdoor learning).

Splash

Make a splash and discover more of Steamboat's waters this year by clicking below.

See a frozen Fish Creek Falls in Steamboat Springs, Colorado in the Winter time.

Steamboat Highlights