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Zapata Falls

Alamosa County, Colorado

4.7/5
based on 11 reviews

Details

Distance

0.5 miles

Elevation Gain

150 ft

Route Type

Out-and-Back

Description

Added by Billy DiMirra

This is a hike is right outside of Great Sand Dunes National Park, that leads to a 30ft. cave waterfall.

Driving towards the Sand Dunes, you will see a sign marker that indicates the road up to Zapata Falls. Turn right onto the road a follow it for about 2 miles until you hit the parking lot at the top. The road is in pretty rough condition so if your car doesn't have high clearance make sure you take it slow. Once you reach the parking lot, you will see an 10ft sign indicating the trail head. You will follow the trail up for 1/2 mile leading to the cave entrance. Depending on the time of year you will continue into the cave, either on ice or through water and you will see the falls in the back of the cave.

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Features

Photography
Hiking
Dog Friendly
Easy Parking
Scenic
Waterfall

Zapata Falls Reviews

Explorer

04/20/17

Hiked to the falls in late April and most of the waterfall was still frozen over, but still so beautiful. The road out there was REALLY rough on my 2WD car, but it made it without falling apart. Win! If you're already in the area for the Great Sand Dunes I highly recommend checking the falls out as a part of your trip!

Explorer

02/13/17

The pictures on this adventure are amazing, but in all honesty don't do the falls justice. We came in mid-February and had the place to ourselves (get there early, folks!) and honestly thought it was one of the coolest hikes we've ever done. We used YakTrax, but would have been fine with no traction at all. The road really isn't maintained, and also lasts long enough to make you question whether or not you went the right way. The trail was snowcovered, but the parking lot and road were clear!

The hike is SHORT but sweet. If you're already in the area I highly recommend checking this spot out. The cave is pretty awesome.

Leave No Trace

Always practice Leave No Trace ethics on your adventures and follow local regulations. Please explore responsibly!

Nearby

Summit Little Bear Peak

Mount Lindsey (CLOSED)

Summit Blanca and Ellingwood Peaks

Mosca Pass Trail, Great Sand Dunes NP

Hike High Dune at Great Sand Dunes National Park

Sand Dunes Loop Trail