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Reporter |
Summary: From the trailhead, follow the obvious trail for 1.8 miles up to the falls. Enjoy the cascading Booth Creek and the magnificent views as you hike. Wildflowers flourish in this paradise. Don't take this hike for granted though, you'll still gain a lot of elevation, so bring your hiking boots and a couple liters of water. Trailhead: From Denver head to Vail via I-70 and take the East Vail exit (Exit 180). Head west 0.85 miles to the Booth Falls Road. Turn right and follow this road for 0.2 miles to the trailhead parking area. (Lat:39.64977 Lon:-106.32105) Trail Guides for Booth Creek Falls: Best Seasons: Fall, Spring, Summer, User Groups: Hikers, Dogs, Bikes, Horses, Ranger Contact: Eagle County Ranger District 970-328-6388 Localhikes Reporter: This hike was submitted by Joshua Friesema, who has posted 97 other hikes on this site. To visit this reporters web site, click here. Trail Reviews Submit your own review Re DD's review below... do not be detered. This is a beautiful hike and CAN be done by kids and more casual hikers. Te key is that the trail splits about 1/4 before you reach the falls. The left fork, the one DD talks about, goes to the bottom of the falls. The right fork takes you around to the top of the falls. DD is correct that the left fork is quite challenging. I did it two days ago and it soon became apparent that I had missed the trail I'd been on 10 years ago to the top. I scrambled up from the base of the falls (NOT really recommended) and found the trail that is more moderate. I recommend going to the bottom (carefully), because it is so pretty. But then turn around, go back to the fork and go to the top the correct way I hiked to the falls yesterday and was rewarded with a beautiful hike through the varied landscape of the valley. Near the falls there are multiple paths, including one to the left - towards the creek - that will bring you to roughly the level of a two-tiered lower falls. After a break there, in which I waded in the cold clear water, we proceeded through the steep section leading to a cliffside viewing of the spectacular 60 foot namesake falls. I felt spry, so we continued up the valley to the alpine lake at the top. The lake is approximately 11.5k altitude, about 6 miles and 3k higher than the 8500 ft trailhead. The lake Is pristine and well worth the 5-7 the hike, but pack lots of water for the full hike. I would NOT rate this trail moderate in difficulty. The last 1/8 mile or so is extremely steep, very narrow, loose rock and dust, and a steep drop-off to the side. The potential for injury or harm is high, especially for the casual hiker. it is a challenging hike, and you should bring plenty of snacks, energy gells, and water. Not a hike for families with young children or the elderly. I hiked this trail back in the Spring of circa 1978 with my dad, when I was only ten years old. I remember beautiful scenery. On the way up the trail, I stepped on a snake, fell backwards and landed on my butt. I vaguely remember crossing the stream at the top of the falls, on a log. We refilled our water bottles at the top, without using a filter, but we didn't get sick. What a hike! Hosting out-of-town guests, we decided to take them on this trail to see the falls. They're low-landers and struggled a little with the altitude gain, but were so tickled when we finally made it to the falls! The trail was a little crowded, but it was a holiday weekend... Be sure to bring plenty of water -- elevation gain + summer heat = parched throats! Notice: Traveling in the backcountry can be hazardous. You are responsible for informing yourself about these hazards and taking necessary precautions. Information on this web site comes from volunteer reporters and may contain errors or omissions. A current guidebook and proper equipment are essential for safe enjoyment of the hikes posted on this site. Keys: Colorado Hiking, Colorado Trails, Colorado Hikes, Eagle County Hiking, Eagle County Trails, Eagle County Hikes |