Discover the natural beauty of north central Colorado along Adams Falls Trail. Follow the brief trail through lush forests to the tumbling Adams Falls.
The trail is fairly easy and popular because of its accessibility. Follow the 0.6-mile (1-kilometer) loop trail through a mixed forest of aspens and pines. Midway through the loop, reach the overlook at Adams Falls. The waterfall drops more than 50 feet (15 meters) down a narrow rocky gorge.
After you’ve seen the falls, you have a few options. Adams Falls leads to a stream. Follow it a bit farther or continue along one of the many other interconnecting trails. Otherwise, simply loop back and return the way you came.
East Inlet Trail shares its trailhead with Adams Falls Trail. For a more robust hike, follow East Inlet Trail for 8 miles (13 kilometers) to Spirit Lake. Relax on the shores of the crystal clear lake, surrounded by enormous peaks. If you’re equipped for a longer trek, continue on to Fourth Lake and over Boulder Grand Pass and beyond.
As you hike, take a moment to appreciate the beautiful nature that surrounds you. Fields and forests spring into bloom during warmer months. Be watchful and you may even spot a moose.
Adams Falls Trailhead has plenty of parking. The nearby town of Grand Lake is less than a 10-minute drive away. Grand Lake, which began as a mining supply town, is now a tourist destination. Enjoy its friendly small-town atmosphere and basic amenities.
Use Adams Falls Trail as a jumping-off point to explore Rocky Mountain National Park, which extends east from Grand Lake. The sprawling national park, which spans the Great Continental Divide, encompasses snow-capped mountains, pristine forests and alpine tundra.
For the best hiking conditions, visit Adams Falls Trail between June and November. In off-season months, snowfall can make the trails treacherous. Horseback riding is also allowed on the trail.