Hike to Cascade Falls
What to Expect
Safety Advisory
You're hiking above 8,000 feet — if you just drove up from the Front Range or flew into Denver, take it slow even though the trail is flat. Altitude headaches and shortness of breath sneak up on people who underestimate a so-called easy hike.
The rocks near the base of Cascade Falls get slick with spray. Stay on the established viewpoints rather than scrambling closer, especially with kids.
Trail Details
Pro Tips
Start from the North Inlet Trailhead near Grand Lake on the park's west side — it's far less crowded than the Bear Lake corridor, and you can often skip the timed entry permit headache entirely since this trailhead falls outside the Bear Lake reservation zone.
Hit the trail before 8 a.m. in summer for the best chance at spotting moose in the meadows near the trailhead — they browse the willows along North Inlet creek most mornings, and the light is spectacular for photos.
The cascade is most impressive in late June through mid-July when snowmelt is at peak flow. By late August, it thins to a trickle. Time your visit accordingly if the waterfall is your main draw.
Photos
NPS Photo / Maci MacPherson
