Quick Info
Waterfall height: 285 feet. Distance from downtown: A few blocks walk. Time needed: 30 minutes to 1.5 hours. Entrance fee: Small fee for park access. Open: Year-round (weather permitting).
Box Canyon Falls is Ouray's most accessible natural attraction. A 285-foot waterfall plunges through a narrow box canyon just steps from downtown. The canyon is so narrow you can almost touch both walls—and the thundering water creates a mesmerizing experience in the confined space.
The park offers two viewing options: a suspended bridge at the base where mist soaks visitors, and a high bridge offering views down into the canyon. Both are accessible via short walks from the entrance. This is an easy outing that showcases the dramatic geology of the San Juan Mountains.
The Falls
Canyon Creek drops 285 feet through a fault in the quartzite rock. The canyon is only 20 feet wide at the base, creating a powerful experience when standing on the suspended bridge. During peak spring runoff, the volume of water is impressive; by late summer, the flow diminishes but remains beautiful.
Lower viewing area: A tunnel leads to a suspended bridge at the falls' base. You're standing inside the canyon with walls rising around you. Expect to get wet from spray—bring a jacket or embrace it.
Upper viewing area: Stairs climb to the high bridge spanning the canyon's rim. Look straight down at the falls and into the narrow gorge. Different perspective, less wet.
Park Trails
Beyond the falls viewing areas, the park connects to hiking trails that climb into the surrounding terrain.
High Bridge Trail: Connects the upper viewing area to the town's Perimeter Trail. Switchbacks climb steeply but offer excellent views back toward town.
Perimeter Trail connection: From the park, you can access Ouray's 6-mile Perimeter Trail loop encircling town. Good option for extending your visit with more hiking.
Visiting Tips
Morning is best. Afternoon crowds can make the narrow viewing areas congested. Morning light illuminates the canyon walls beautifully.
Wear grippy shoes. The pathways can be slick from mist and wet conditions. Sandals aren't ideal.
Bring a jacket. Even on warm days, the canyon interior is cool and the mist soaks you at the lower bridge.
Peak water flow: Late May and June during snowmelt runoff. The falls are most powerful then. By late summer, flow decreases.
History
The park was established in 1880 and has been drawing visitors ever since. The original paths and stairs have been upgraded over the decades, but the experience remains true to the canyon's natural drama. Historic photos show this has been a tourist destination for nearly 150 years.
Frequently Asked Questions
How long does it take to visit?
30 minutes for the falls only. 1-1.5 hours if you explore the trails. Easy to fit in between other Ouray activities.
Is it accessible for all mobility levels?
The lower viewing area involves stairs and uneven surfaces. The park entrance area is accessible, but full access to viewing platforms requires moderate mobility.
Is it open in winter?
Yes, weather permitting. The frozen falls are beautiful—ice formations create a different but equally impressive experience.
Can I see it without paying?
Glimpses are possible from outside the park, but the full experience—especially the canyon interior—requires admission.
Good for kids?
Yes. Kids love the dramatic falls and getting wet from the mist. Short enough to hold attention. Watch children carefully on stairs and viewing platforms.