Rifle Falls State Park Winter Guide

If you’re looking for a hidden gem in Colorado to explore when the snow falls, Rifle Falls State Park in winter is a wonderful choice. Rifle Falls is known for its triple waterfall, that cascades 70 feet (21 meters) into a limestone amphitheater. During the colder months, the waterfalls freeze over (sometimes partially), resulting in a beautiful landscape. Whether you’re taking a road trip from Denver to Moab or are visiting nearby Glenwood Springs, it’s worth taking the side trip to visit Rifle Falls. Venture off the beaten path in Colorado to Rifle Falls State Park in winter to enjoy fewer crowds, short hikes, icy landscapes, and misty caves.

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Why Visit Rifle Falls State Park in Winter?

Rifle Falls State Park is fun to visit almost any time of year, and tends to be off most visitor’s radars. The park is accessible year-round, including select campsites. There are advantages do visiting Rifle Falls State Park in winter, including:

• Frozen Waterfalls: The iconic triple falls have spectacular ice formations when they partially or fully freeze.
• Tranquil Vobes: Though this park never gets truly crowded, it is wonderful to wander the peaceful trails, only running into a few other people along the way.
• Winter Photography: Don’t miss the opportunity to take stunning winter shots of the frozen falls, snow packed trails and snow laden trees.

Things to Do in Rifle Falls State Park in Winter

There are four main hiking trails in the park, which are all rated as easy. These trails connect to one another, making it easy to navigate this relatively small area. We’d recommend downloading the Rifle Falls State Park trail maps on Alltrails, since cell service may be spotty in the park.

1. Hike to Rifle Falls from the Campground

This is a short, paved, easy, and accessible hike. It’s great for those who would like to see the falls with minimal effort. There are limestone caves behind the falls to explore, though the trails were quite icy when we visited.

• Distance: 0.5 miles (0.8 km)
• Elevation Gain: 42 ft (12 meters)
• Difficulty: Easy
• Pet Friendly: Yes, on leash
• AllTrails link

2. Hike the Rifle Falls Coyote Trail

The coyote trail is the classic trail that visitors use to see the top sites within the park, including waterfalls and caves.

• Distance: 0.9 miles (1.4 km)
• Elevation Gain: 116  ft (35 meters)
• Difficulty: Easy
• Pet Friendly: Yes, on leash
• AllTrails link

Follow the paved trail to the front of the falls (see Rifle Falls from Campground above). From there, follow the coyote trail, continuing along the creek. Be sure to stop to look in the limestone caves along the way (they are ideal for a break from the sun on a hot summer day or from the wind on a colder day).

Bird watchers will enjoy the many birds in this creek area (goshawks and bald eagles frequent the area in winter).

After crossing the creek, you’ll go up a flight of stairs. During our most recent visit, the stairs were packed in with snow. If you decide to take the Bobcat loop (see below), you’ll split off after the stairs.

Otherwise, continue along the coyote trail, which winds for a bit before reaching the overlooks for the falls. Be sure to use the official overlooks for your safety. After the lookouts, the trail winds back down to the base of the falls (and back to the parking area).

3. Hike Rifle Falls Coyote to Bobcat Trails

Follow the Coyote Trail described above to the top of the stairs. From here, you’ll see signs for the Bobcat trail (1.5 miles [2.4 km] long), which takes you to the Rifle Falls Fish Hatchery. Hatchery tours are available in summer only.

• Distance: 2.4 miles (3.9 km)
• Elevation Gain: 255 ft. (78 meters)
• Difficulty: Easy
• Pet Friendly: Not allowed on the Bobcat Trail
• AllTrails link

4. Hike to Rifle Falls via Coyote and Squirrel Loop Trail

Follow the Coyote Trail described above. Either before or after walking the coyote lioop, you can access the 0.9-1.0 mile long Squirrel Trail. Unlike the Bobcat trail, this trail is dog friendly (with pets on leash). The squirrel portion of the trail follows the drainage ditch, ending near the campground area. Though it’s rated as easy, there are some fairly rocky sections to navigate.

• Distance: 1.9 miles (3.1 km)
• Elevation Gain: 196 ft (60 meters)
• Difficulty: Easy-Moderate
• Pet Friendly: Yes, on leash
• AllTrails link

5. Explore the Caves

The limestone caves near the waterfall remain open in winter. At times, the entrances are decorated with ice, making them feel otherworldly. Though our last visit was in February, there had been a warm spell and the falls were only partially frozen.

There are also dry caves beyond the falls to explore. Don’t forget a flashlight or headlamp for safe exploring.

6. Wildlife Watching

Winter brings quieter conditions. Keep an eye out for mule deer, elk, rabbits, coyotes, and marmots along the creek and woodland areas. We didn’t see mammals during our winter visit unfortunately, but others have been luckier.

For bird watchers, goshawks and bald eagles frequent the area in winter. Colorado Parks & Wildlife provides a handy bird checklist for Rifle Falls State Park.

7. Winter Picnics

Pack in a picnic lunch or a snack to enjoy either at the picnic area at the trailhead, or at one of the benches along the trails.

Nearby Winter Attractions

Glenwood Springs — around 40 minutes from Rifle Falls State Park. Warm up post-hike with a soak in the world-famous hot springs. Or, consider hiking to Hanging Lake before your soak.

Rifle Mountain Park — 10 minutes from Rifle Falls State Park. Managed by the city of Rifle and renowned for ice climbing, this dramatic canyon offers challenging winter climbing adventures.

Rifle Gap State Park — 10 minutes from Rifle Falls State Park, this is a great option for ice fishing and quiet winter walks (check with the state park to confirm safety of the ice conditions).

Colorado National Monument — A spectacular red‑rock canyonland just outside Grand Junction. Rim Rock Drive and numerous trails remain open in winter, though snow or ice may close higher-road sections or trailheads—check current conditions before heading out.

Tips for Visiting Rifle Falls in Winter

• Dress in Layers: The temperatures can fluctuate widely. Insulated jackets, gloves, and hats are key.
• Footwear Matters: Waterproof boots or trail shoes plus micro-spikes can make or break your experience on icy trails.
• Trekking Poles make a world of difference when the trails are snowy and icy. Most fold up easily to attached to your day pack when not in use.
• See the full day hike checklist and the essential winter hiking guide for more recommendations on how to prepare for your hike.
• Park Entry Fees: A Colorado State Park pass or a daily entry fee is required (for 2025, $10 per vehicle or $4 for an individual).

Cascade Mountain Tech Trekking Poles - Carbon Fiber Walking or Hiking Sticks with Quick Adjustable Locks (Set of 2),Green

Salomon X Ultra 4 Mid GTX Hiking Shoe - Women's Quarry/Black/Legion Blue

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Where Is Rifle Falls in Colorado?

Rifle Falls State Park is located about 14 miles north of the town of Rifle, Colorado, and is accessible year-round.

Rifle Falls State Park Winter Lodging Options

Final Thoughts on Visiting Rifle Falls State Park in Winter

Visiting Rifle Falls State Park in winter is a real treat, with partially frozen triple waterfalls, limestone caves, and quiet snow-swept woods. It's perfect for photographers, hikers looking for a peaceful experience, or a unique cold-weather adventure. Pair it with nearby Colorado National Monument, Glenwood's hot springs, or ice climbing for a winter getaway you won’t forget.

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