Near Horsetail Falls
Near Horsetail Falls
Near Horsetail Falls
Near Horsetail Falls
Near Horsetail Falls

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Hike Route

Horsetail Falls

4.6 (12 Ratings)
Intermediate trail up Dry Creek, with views of Alpine City to the west and a mostly shaded trail until Horsetail Falls.
3.9
mi
Distance
1,631
ft
Gain
strenuous
Difficulty
Fall ColorsRiver/CreekViewsWaterfallWildflowers

Route Details

Flatter
Steeper
3.91mi
Distance
1,631ft
Elevation Gain
1,631ft
Elevation Loss
50%
Max Grade
7,206ft
High Point
5,658ft
Low Point
Path Type
There and Back
Description
The first quarter mile of the trail is a little rocky and exposed, but you soon climb into pines and aspens and the trail is fairly shaded for the rest of the hike. You'll hike at a steady incline nearly the entire hike to the waterfall. After the first mile or so you'll come up to a small meadow, and soon after that the trail will come to a fork. To the right is the main trail, and if you go to the left, you'll come to a view, which will then link back to the main trail. You'll cross a few small streams, and in the spring and summer you might hike through the water run-off for just a bit. Towards the last 0.2 miles you'll reach the Dry Creek sign, and you'll want to take the trail to the left. Within 30-or-so feet left of that sign, you'll make a sharp left and see a narrow trail make a short, steep drop. Take this trail to the waterfall. The waterfall is a sight to see, but has some steep sections due to erosion so take your time and watch your footing.

Route Conditions

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Contributors
Teri Coats