Fish Creek Falls - 13 Things to Know Before Visiting

Fish Creek Falls is one of the most popular tourist destinations in Routt county, Colorado. The falls are located just a short drive from the city of Steamboat Springs, and they offer a stunning natural setting for hiking, picnicking, and photography. There are several easy hiking trails that lead to different views of the falls, and the picnic areas are well-shaded and perfect for a summer day. In addition, the falls are surrounded by tall cliffs that make for an impressive backdrop. Whether you're looking for a day of outdoor adventure or simply wanting to enjoy the beauty of nature, Fish Creek Falls is definitely worth a visit.

Fish Creek Falls is a stunning natural waterfall located in Routt County, Colorado. The falls are fed by the Fish Creek, which is a tributary of the Yampa River. The falls themselves plunge over a cliff face that is approximately 300 feet tall. Fish Creek Falls is one of the most popular tourist attractions in Routt County, and it is especially popular with hikers and nature lovers. The falls are accessible via a short hike from the Fish Creek trailhead, and there are also several viewing platforms that offer impressive views of the waterfall. The history of Fish Creek Falls dates back to the early 20th century, when the falls were first discovered by Euro-American settlers. Since then, the falls have become an important part of the local ecosystem, and they continue to attract visitors from all over the world.

The best time to experience the falls is in the spring, when the melting snow creates a powerful flow of water over the rocks. In the summer, the crowds can be unbearable, so if you're looking for a more peaceful experience, plan your visit for early morning or evening.

1. The best time to visit Fish Creek Falls is in the early morning or evening, when the sun is not as strong. This will help you avoid the crowds and enjoy the scenery at its best.
2. Wear comfortable shoes and clothing that you don’t mind getting wet. There are a lot of rocks and uneven surfaces around the waterfall, so make sure you have good footwear.
3. If you have small children with you, be extra careful. There are steep drop-offs near the waterfall and it can be easy to lose sight of them in the crowd.
4. Don’t try to climb the falls. It may look tempting, but it’s dangerous and you could get seriously injured.
5.  Leash your pets. Dogs are required to be on a leash at all times while visiting Fish Creek Falls. Pets are not allowed on any of the trails or in the water.
6. Be considerate of other visitors. This is a popular spot, so expect to see other people around you. Be respectful of their space and do not make loud noises or play music without headphones.
7. Do not pick flowers or disturb any plants. This area is home to many rare and delicate plant species. Please help us protect them by leaving them undisturbed.

1. The falls were formed over thousands of years as fish creek carved its way through the rocks.  The falls are accessible via a short hike from the parking lot, making it a popular destination for families and groups.
2. The falls are located in the Mount Zirkel Wilderness Area, which offers plenty of opportunities for hiking, camping, and fishing.
3. The falls are lit up at night by LED lights, making them a beautiful sight even after dark.
4. Fish Creek Falls is one of many waterfalls located in Routt National Forest, which covers more than 2 million acres in northwestern Colorado.
5. Fish Creek Falls is one of the tallest waterfalls in Colorado, with a drop of 283 feet.
6.  Fish Creek Falls is one of the most popular tourist destinations in Routt County, Colorado, attracting over 200,000 visitors each year.

The maximum time required to explore the Fish Creek Falls area is about four hours. This includes time for rest stops and photo opportunities. In addition, there are several picnic areas near the falls that make a great place to take a break.

To reach the falls, take Highway 131 north from Steamboat Springs for about 15 miles. Then turn left onto Fish Creek Road and follow it for 2.5 miles to the parking area. From the parking area, it's an easy half-mile hike to the viewing platform at the base of the falls.

While there is no formal entrance fee to explore the falls, there is a charge for parking in the lot nearest to the trailhead. 

The falls are open year-round, but the hours vary depending on the season. In the winter, the falls are only accessible during daylight hours. From Memorial Day weekend through Labor Day, the falls are open from 7:00 AM to 9:00 PM. The rest of the year, the Falls are open from 8:00 AM to 6:00 PM.