Box Canyon Falls Park is a developed waterfall attraction situated in the “Switzerland of America”, Ouray. It showcases an 85 foot cascade of water down Canyon Creek.
The waterfall is the climax of Canyon Creek, which spills thousands of gallons a water each minute over the falls. You can witness this breathtaking attraction both above and below the waterfall. It thunders down into a quartzite canyon narrowly surrounded by 100 foot walls.
In addition to the easily-accessed waterfall, there are hiking trails, picnic areas and a visitor center. The visitor center features interpretive exhibits, describing the local ecosystem and history. The park and trails are open year round, however the visitor center closes for the winter in November. Normally it opens at 8am each day. Dogs are not permitted in the park.
The largest swifts that migrate North America, Black Swifts, make sure of the park each summer season. Arriving from Brazil in early June, the birds stay through September. The National Audobon Society declared Box Canyon Falls an important bird area.
Hiking Trails
There are three main trails in the park:
- Falls Trail – easy 500 foot walk into the canyon, mostly flat.
- High Bridge Trail – a half mile loop that gains 200 feet in elevation. You’ll see stunning views of the Amphitheater Cirque peaks and an aerial view of town.
- Native Plant Loop – quick stroll through nature with plant markers for the local flora. This is only trail without steps.
Getting There
From Ouray – Take US 550 just out of town, less than half a mile to County Road 361/Box Canyon Road. This leads to the visitor center parking area in a quarter mile.
Details
Address: Box Canyon Rd, Ouray, CO
Phone: 970-325-7080
Season: Year round – spring and summer are best
Length: 500 feet
Fee: None
Dogs: Not permitted