Phoenix Falls Hike

One of the many day hikes near Creede, trail to the Phoenix Waterfall is a nice retreat during the summer months. From East Willow Creek Road, the trailhead starts at the first switchback before the road starts gaining elevation. The trail begins via a four-wheel drive access road VW2. The trail meanders through a thick grove of quaking aspens along the East Willow Creek heading north. The trail gradually ascends up the valley where it clears to a large open meadow at the base of the La Garita Mountains. There are several creek crossings along the route, so keeping your boots dry becomes a challenge if you are not using the makeshift log crossings. Along the way you'll see beautiful wildflowers if you hike in the summer, and an old mining cabin is worth a peek. The last 300 feet up toward the waterfall are steep and rocky, but the cool mist is a nice reward after a hot summer hike. Views of the valley below are accessible via the base of the waterfall. Round trip this hike is an easy 5 miles.