Chacos, Keens, or similar are best for hiking up to the falls.

From trailhead to stream is uphill and dusty with scattered benches under trees. Navigating through the stream is short, but water is cold and watch for deep sections.

Birger

July 5, 2022

Hiking

Water fall is tucked in the rocks. Bring sandals in the summer, the water is ice cold.

Patrick

October 22, 2025

Hiking

The two tiers of the waterfall aren't visible from the outside, but can only be heard. It's essential to walk along the edge or in the riverbed for a while. Depending on the water level, this may be possible without any slippery feet. The stones aren't particularly slippery.
This river path should be avoided in winter.

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Best routes to Zapata Falls

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1. South Zapata Lake Trail & Zapata Waterfall — Sangre de Cristo Wilderness

14.8km

05:18

900m

Alpine lake hike through wilderness where ice-cold waterfall caves lead to pristine mountain solitude.

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Hard

4.6

(5)

102

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2. Zapata Creek and benches – Zapata Falls loop from Zapata Falls

1.60km

00:32

80m

Easy hike. Great for any fitness level. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.

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Easy

4.0

(4)

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3. Zapata Creek and benches – Zapata Falls loop from Zapata Falls

2.40km

00:44

80m

Easy hike. Great for any fitness level. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.

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Easy

Details

Informations

Elevation 2,870 m

Weather

Today

Monday 16 February

11°C

-4°C

0 %

Additional weather tips

Max wind speed: 24.0 km/h

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Location: Alamosa County, Colorado, United States

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Zapata Falls

1. South Zapata Lake Trail & Zapata Waterfall — Sangre de Cristo Wilderness

2. Zapata Creek and benches – Zapata Falls loop from Zapata Falls

3. Zapata Creek and benches – Zapata Falls loop from Zapata Falls

Other Popular Places to Check Out

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