Rifle Falls State Park
Rifle Falls State Park is a compact Colorado State Park northeast of Rifle known for its triple waterfall, limestone caves and shaded picnic sites along East Rifle Creek.
Rifle Falls State Park in Rifle, CO
East Rifle Creek drops about 70 feet over a travertine dam in three parallel falls, misting mossy rock and feeding a lush riparian corridor that feels nothing like the nearby dry canyon country. Short trails lead to the base of the falls, the top overlook and a few small limestone caves that need a flashlight. Ten picnic sites sit close to the water; twenty campsites (drive-in and walk-in) fill fast on summer weekends when parking is limited and staff may turn cars away once lots are full. Mule deer, songbirds and the upstream Rifle Falls Fish Hatchery add to a short but memorable stop.
The park is open daily 6:00 a.m. to 10:00 p.m. Every vehicle needs a Colorado Parks and Wildlife pass — typically about $10–$12 for Colorado plates and $15–$17 for out-of-state plates, or $4 for an individual walk-in day pass. The Rifle Gap Visitor Center that also serves Rifle Falls is open daily 8:00 a.m.–4:00 p.m. for maps, first aid and pass sales. Call (970) 625-1607 or email rifle.gap.park@state.co.us before peak summer weekends.
Photo Gallery
Photo credits: Rifle Falls in Rifle Falls State Park by Jeffrey Beall (CC BY 4.0); Rifle Falls State Park, Colorado 01 by Jadee911 (CC BY-SA 4.0); Rifle Falls by Mdemoux (CC BY-SA 4.0); Rifle Falls State Park, Colorado 02 by Jadee911 (CC BY-SA 4.0); Rifle Falls State Park, Colorado 03 by Jadee911 (CC BY-SA 4.0); Rifle Falls waterfalls by Mdemoux (CC BY-SA 4.0); Rifle Falls State Park entrance by Jeffrey Beall (CC BY 4.0); Grass Valley Canal headgate by Jeffrey Beall (CC BY 4.0); Ice fingers by Mdemoux (CC BY-SA 4.0). Images via Wikimedia Commons.
News & Events
Check alerts, camping and passes on the Colorado Parks and Wildlife Rifle Falls page.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is there to do at Rifle Falls State Park?
- View the triple falls: Walk short trails to the base and overlook of the three waterfalls.
- Explore limestone caves: Bring a flashlight for small caves in the cliff beneath the falls.
- Picnic: Use shaded tables near the creek and falls.
- Camp: Reserve or walk up to electric and tent sites when available.
- Fish hatchery: Visit the nearby Rifle Falls Fish Hatchery for free summer tours when offered.
What is nearby Rifle Falls State Park?
- Rifle Gap State Park: Reservoir boating and the shared visitor center just down Highway 325.
- Rifle: Lodging, dining and services a few miles south.
- Iron Mountain Hot Springs: Riverside soaking in Glenwood Springs, under an hour east.
- Glenwood Hot Springs Resort: Classic large pool complex in Glenwood Springs.
- Colorado River corridor: Rafting and scenic drives toward Glenwood Canyon.
When was Rifle Falls State Park established?
Colorado Parks and Wildlife manages this roughly 48-acre park as one of the system’s signature waterfall destinations. The falls and caves have long drawn photographers and film crews; visitor facilities were upgraded in the late 1990s with paved paths, picnic tables and improved access.
When is Rifle Falls State Park open?
The park is open daily 6:00 a.m. to 10:00 p.m. Anglers and registered campers have extended access as posted. The Rifle Gap visitor center is open daily 8:00 a.m.–4:00 p.m. Arrive early on summer weekends — parking is limited.
Are there any tips for visiting Rifle Falls State Park?
Buy or display your vehicle pass before you park. Trails can be slick from spray; wear shoes with grip and keep kids close near cave mouths and creek edges. Leashed dogs are allowed. Bring a flashlight for the caves and expect misty photos. If the lot is full, come back later rather than parking illegally along Highway 325.
Rifle Falls State Park is located at 5775 Highway 325, Rifle, CO 81650. Call (970) 625-1607 or visit cpw.state.co.us for passes and camping.