Zapata Falls
Great Sand Dunes from Zapata Falls Trailhead
 After
climbing the dunes on a hot summer day, refresh yourself at spectacular
Zapata Falls. South Zapata Creek has powered its way through a rock crevasse,
etching and carving the steep stone walls containing the 30 ft. high waterfall.
Listen to the melodic cascading waters; feel the chilling spray of the
falls;and watch for dippers, dark gray aquatic song birds that feed on
water insects.
Directions
Zapata Falls is accessed from U.S. Highway 150, south of Great Sand Dunes.
Between mile marker 10 and 11 is the access to Zapata Falls; the turn-off
is to the east. Look for the "Zapata Falls Recreation Area"
road sign. The trailhead is approximately 3.5 miles (5.8 km)from the turn-off.
Follow the unpaved road (two wheel drive vehicles should have no trouble
in good weather conditions) to a parking lot, picnic area, exhibits, and
an accessible restroom.
The Hike
The hike to the falls is .5 miles. (8 km) and mildly steep. Once the
trail reaches the creek, you must wade into the stream, climb a small
ladder, and walk through a narrow gorge to view the falls.
Creek and waterfall flow is highest in spring and early summer. During
low creek flow in late summer and fall, it may be possible to scramble
up the rocks in the creekbed to access the falls. In winter, the falls
and stream are frozen, and the access road may be closed.
Safety
The rushing water is cold and the rocks can be slippery, so use good
judgement as to whether or not you are up to the challenge. Air temperatures
inside the alcove can be cool, so bring a jacket, even in summer. Wear
sturdy shoes with good traction.
Other Activities
Along with breathtaking views of the Great Sand Dunes, San Luis Lakes
State Park, the San Juan Mountains, the Sangre de Cristo Mountains, and
the San Luis Valley, Zapata Falls Day Use Area also contains mountain
bike trails. While there is no overnight camping allowed in the Zapata
Falls Day Use Area, backcountry camping is allowed in nearby Rio Grande
National Forest. Guides to hikes and bike trails in the Zapata Falls Area
and the rest of the San Luis Valley are available at the Great Sand Dunes
bookstore.
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