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Deservedly one of the most popular trails in Vail, up to a waterfall and back.


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Map Key

3.8

Miles

6.1

KM

Out and Back

9,751' 2,972 m

High

8,449' 2,575 m

Low

1,302' 397 m

Up

1,302' 397 m

Down

13%

Avg Grade (7°)

25%

Max Grade (14°)

Dogs Leashed

Features Fall Colors · River/Creek · Views · Waterfall

This is a very popular trail at certain times of the season. Please consider hiking other trails, as this trail is likely to be very busy.

Overview

This hike uses the first 2 miles of the Booth Lake Trail to make a short but steep out and back journey to the impressive waterfalls.

Need to Know

Trailhead parking is closed starting June 2021, trail users can park at the Town of Vail's parking structure and take the FREE bus, which leaves frequently. Vail has added an additional bus route specifically to access the East Vail trailheads. ( vailgov.com/bus-schedules#1…).

This is a pilot program to address the negative impacts of overcrowding on the Eagles Nest Wilderness such as a build-up of waste, trail erosion, and other safety concerns (speeding, illegal parking, emergency vehicle access, etc.) that impact nearby residents and visitors as well.

Dogs must be on leash in Eagles Nest Wilderness, and dogs are not allowed on the bus. If you do hike with your dog, please pick up its waste.

Backpackers can park for free at the Gore Creek or Red Sandstone parking garage and take the bus to the Booth Lake trail. The alternative is to pay $35 to park overnight in the Vail parking structure and use the free bus to reach the trailhead.

Description

The trail is steep, though there are several nice and cool aspen groves to keep you from overheating, especially near the beginning of the trail. There are enough vistas that you'll want to take a little extra time enjoying yourself on this one. Winding through lush aspen groves, and passing stout spruces, you'l find plenty of photo opportunities. The views of the Vail valley are unparalleled, and you'll also be able to sneak peeks at the Gore Range.

You'll reach the falls in 2 miles, and there are several vantage points to scout out. Some fo the points are slick and dangerous - and very deadly!

Once you've had your fill of the falls, make your way back down the same trail. On the way back, you'll have expansive views of the drainage you climbed and Vail resort.

Shared By:

Nick Wilder with improvements by Sam Chipkin

Trail Ratings

  4.1 from 8 votes

#7

in Vail

#3352

Overall
  4.1 from 8 votes
5 Star
38%
4 Star
38%
3 Star
25%
2 Star
0%
1 Star
0%
Recommended Route Rankings

#7

in Vail

#515

in Colorado

#3,352

Overall
9 Views Last Month
4,354 Since May 24, 2020
Intermediate Intermediate

0%
11%
44%
33%
11%
0%

Photos

Unbelievable fall colors
Oct 4, 2019 near Vail, CO
Overlook near the falls.
Oct 10, 2017 near Vail, CO
On top of the waterfall.
Oct 10, 2017 near Vail, CO
Booth Creek Trail up to the waterfall.
Oct 10, 2017 near Vail, CO
Looking back up the creek from the falls.
Oct 23, 2018 near Vail, CO
Looking out across the top of the falls.
Oct 23, 2018 near Vail, CO

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Check-Ins

Jun 30, 2024
Stephen Pack
May 22, 2024
Mark Douglas Dally
Oct 1, 2022
Kenan Tvrtkovic
5.7mi — 2h 01m
Jul 11, 2022
Johann Dyck
Jul 11, 2022
Ben Krantz
4.9mi — 1h 52m
Jul 14, 2021
Brian Kirkpatrick
family of 3 — 10h 00m
Jun 1, 2021
Matthew Davila
started at noon and made it back to car at 3:30 4.2mi — 3h 06m
May 30, 2021
Erin G
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