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North Clear Creek Falls plunging into a dark rock canyon below open meadows

Waterfall

North Clear Creek Falls

West of Creede, North Clear Creek wanders across a high meadow and then suddenly plunges about 100 feet into a dark basalt canyon. It is one of the easiest and most rewarding stops on the Silver Thread.

Why stop

Few waterfalls are this easy to see. A short paved road leaves Highway 149 and ends at a parking area right on the canyon rim, with viewing points looking straight across at the falls. On the way you cross open meadows with views of Bristol Head, the great flat-topped mountain that dominates this stretch of the valley.

Getting there

Drive west from Creede on Highway 149 towards Lake City for about 25 miles, then turn onto the signed road to the falls, Forest Road 510. The viewpoint is about half a mile from the highway.

When to go

  • Late May and June: snowmelt makes the falls fullest and loudest.
  • Summer: green meadows and wildflowers, with a steady flow.
  • Autumn: less water but golden aspens in the valleys nearby.
  • Winter: the falls freeze into a column of ice, popular with experienced ice climbers.

Tips

  • Stay behind the railings. The canyon edge is sheer and the rock can be slippery.
  • Combine the falls with the rest of the Silver Thread Scenic Byway and lunch in Lake City.
  • Morning light is best for photographs from the main viewpoint.
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