Fish Creek Falls
Fish Creek Falls is a nearly 300-foot waterfall in the Routt National Forest about four miles east of Steamboat Springs, with an accessible overlook and a trail to the base.
Fish Creek Falls in Steamboat Springs, CO
From the Fish Creek Falls trailhead you can take a short wheelchair-accessible path to an overlook that frames the entire drop, or descend a steeper dirt trail to the historic footbridge and the misty base of the falls. Fish Creek tumbles out of high lakes in the Rabbit Ears Range; in winter the same amphitheater draws ice climbers and snowshoers when the road is passable. The picnic site offers tables and a year-round vault toilet. A longer trek continues toward Upper Fish Creek Falls and Long Lake when the bridge and trail are open.
Day use costs $5 per vehicle; pay at the on-site automated fee station (credit card, cash or check) or use an America the Beautiful or Medicine Bow-Routt annual day-use pass. The site is open year-round, but the footbridge and about four miles of Fish Creek Trail typically close April 1–July 1 during high water for structural safety — the overlook and picnic area stay open. Call the Hahns Peak/Bears Ears Ranger District at (970) 870-2299 for current conditions before you drive up Fish Creek Falls Road.
Photo Gallery
Photo credits: Fish Creek Falls, near Steamboat Springs (2619514927) by KimonBerlin (CC BY-SA 2.0); Fish Creek Falls, near Steamboat Springs (2619517095) by KimonBerlin (CC BY-SA 2.0); Fish Creek Falls, near Steamboat Springs (2620341464) by KimonBerlin (CC BY-SA 2.0); Fish Creek Falls, near Steamboat Springs (2620339794) by KimonBerlin (CC BY-SA 2.0); Fish Creek Falls, near Steamboat Springs (2621508465) by KimonBerlin (CC BY-SA 2.0); Fish Creek Falls, near Steamboat Springs (2619519905) by KimonBerlin (CC BY-SA 2.0); Fish Creek Falls, near Steamboat Springs (2620339036) by KimonBerlin (CC BY-SA 2.0); Fish Creek Falls (44613049822) by Heath Cajandig (CC BY 2.0); Fish Creek Falls Morning (43753505285) by Heath Cajandig (CC BY 2.0). Images via Wikimedia Commons.
News & Events
Check bridge closures and fees on the U.S. Forest Service Fish Creek Falls page.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is there to do at Fish Creek Falls?
- Overlook trail: Walk the short accessible path for a full view of the falls.
- Base trail: Descend to the footbridge and creek when the path and bridge are open.
- Picnic: Use tables near the trailhead (limited in deep winter snow).
- Photography: Capture the drop, bridge and aspen/evergreen canyon.
- Winter sports: Snowshoe or ice climb when conditions allow and the road is open.
What is nearby Fish Creek Falls?
- Steamboat Springs: Dining, lodging and hot springs about four miles west.
- Strawberry Park Hot Springs: Rustic mineral pools in the hills north of town.
- Routt National Forest: Buffalo Pass and Rabbit Ears Pass recreation.
- Downtown Steamboat: Brewpubs, the Yampa River Core Trail and ski-town shops.
- Upper Fish Creek: Longer hikers continue toward Long Lake when open.
When was Fish Creek Falls established as a recreation site?
The falls are a long-standing Routt National Forest destination; Fish Creek Falls Trail #1102 is a certified National Recreation Trail. The Forest Service manages the trailhead, picnic site and fee area for year-round day use and seasonal trail access.
When is Fish Creek Falls open?
The recreation site is open year-round for day use. Expect a $5 per vehicle fee. The footbridge and a multi-mile trail section typically close April 1–July 1 for high-water safety; the overlook remains available. Confirm current Forest Orders before spring and early summer visits.
Are there any tips for visiting Fish Creek Falls?
Arrive early on summer afternoons when the road and parking clog. Wear sturdy shoes for the steep base trail and watch slick rock near the spray. Pack layers — mountain weather changes fast. Do not drive past closed gates in winter. Cell service can be spotty; download maps before you leave Steamboat.
Fish Creek Falls is reached via Fish Creek Falls Road, Steamboat Springs, CO 80487. Call the Hahns Peak/Bears Ears Ranger District at (970) 870-2299 or visit the Forest Service trail page for fees and closures.