Looking for a short, scenic waterfall hike near Buena Vista, Colorado? Agnes Vaille Falls is a hidden gem tucked away in Chalk Creek Canyon near Buena Vista—and it’s perfect for families, beginner hikers, or anyone craving a quick nature fix without the grind.
HIKE TO: Agnes Vaile Falls
TRAIL: Cascade Creek Trail
MILES: 1.5 mi out-and-back
TIME: 20 mins to reach the falls
DATE I WENT: 7/5/2025
BEST TIME: Late Spring through Early Fall
DIFFICULTY: easy
ELEVATION: 9218 ft
ELEVATION GAIN/ LOSS: 440 ft
HIKE PERMIT: no
PARKING FEE: no
LOCATION: Chalk Creek Canyon in Buena Vista, Colorado (San Isabel National Forest)
Getting to the Agnes Vaille Falls Trailhead
The trailhead is located about 20 minutes from Buena Vista off County Road 162 near Mount Princeton Hot Springs. The drive alone is worth it—you’re flanked by epic 14ers and colorful canyon walls the entire way in.
Pro tip: There’s limited parking at the trailhead. Arrive early on weekends, especially in summer.
Trail Description
The trail is short and sweet but delivers big payoff for minimal effort. After a brief walk through forest and rocky terrain, you’ll hear the sound of rushing water. Before you know it, you’re staring up at a gorgeous cascade tumbling down a granite cliffside.
The path is well-defined and mostly flat, with just a few mild uphill sections. It’s beginner-friendly and a great option for families, especially if you’re still adjusting to the altitude.
We started our hike at 10:37 am and moving at a kid-friendly pace, we reached the viewing platform of Agnes Vaille waterfall in just 10 minutes. While there’s a sign labeling this as a viewing platform, it’s just a tiny pull out from the trail where it kind of ends—not an actual built out platform. This was only 0.4 miles to reach.
From here, you can continue closer to the waterfall but be warned—the trail can be sketchy.
You’ll head down a few feet of steep, unmaintained dirt slope toward the canyon, then rock-hop across the small creek using boulders and logs. The rest of the trail hugs the right side of the creek and brings you to the base of the falls in just a few minutes. It’s rocky, uneven, and unstable in spots—so watch your step and take it slow. That said, you can hike this without getting wet.
⚠️ Important Note: In 2013, a tragic rockslide occurred near the falls. While the trail has since reopened and is considered safe, but safe is relative and can change quickly in the great outdoors. Always stay on the designated path and avoid scrambling beyond the marked trail. Rockfall is still a real risk. In early summer 2025, someone tragically died here after falling off the cliff near the waterfall. Please don’t underestimate this spot—it’s beautiful, but it demands respect.
Why Hike Agnes Vaille Falls?
- ✅ Perfect quick stop if you’re exploring Buena Vista or driving along Hwy 285
- ✅ Great intro hike if you’re acclimating to altitude
- ✅ Waterfalls + mountain views
- ✅ Bonus points: You can soak at Mount Princeton Hot Springs (fee required) just down the road after your hike
What to Bring
- Sturdy hiking boots (there are a few rocky sections)
- Small day pack — shop my favorite day hiking backpack here
- Water (yes, even on a short hike!)
- Sun protection – there’s minimal shade, Think Sport is great for outdoor activity with high Zinc Oxide %
Nearby Adventures
If you’re not ready to head home after this quick trail, check out:
- Hike Lost Lake Trail – another short, great bang-for-your-buck kid-friendly hike
- Rafting Adventure in nearby Browns Canyon National Monument — book your tour here
- Granite Via Ferrata Climbing — book your spot here
- Looking for a big adventure? Learn how to hike Mount Princeton, a notable 14er you see from Buena Vista CO
Final Thoughts
Agnes Vaille Falls is proof that not all beautiful hikes in Colorado require hours of trekking and a summit selfie. If you’re road-tripping through Chaffee County or just need a peaceful hour in nature, this one’s a must-do.
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FAQs
Is Agnes Vaille Falls open year-round?
The trail is typically accessible from late spring through fall. Snow and ice can make the trail dangerous in winter.
Is it safe to bring kids?
Yes—just keep them on the trail and away from steep drop-offs near the falls.
Can you swim at Agnes Vaille Falls?
Not really. There’s no swimming hole, but you can dip your feet in nearby pools if runoff allows.
Is there a fee to hike?
Nope! This trail is free to access.
Tiff, the owner and author of Follow Tiff’s Journey, is a California/ Colorado-based adventurer and outdoor connoisseur who divides her heart between the Eastern Sierra Mountains and the Colorado Rocky Mountains. Despite her fear of heights, she’s become a seasoned mountaineer, ultralight hiking and backcountry camping enthusiast, expert road trip planner, and a fervent explorer of alpine lakes, natural hot springs, and sandstone canyons.
With 10 years of experience exploring the outdoors, her blog is your go-to source for all things wilderness, offering invaluable insights and pro tips, essential gear recommendations, and awe-inspiring stories from her adventures.
Join Tiff on her quest to share the wonders of nature and inspire others to follow their own path in the great outdoors.