South Mineral Creek Falls: How to Find This Hidden Gem in the San Juan Mountains

Sometimes known as South Fork Mineral Creek, South Mineral Creek, or Mineral Creek Falls, this is one of the best waterfalls in Colorado you don’t want to miss near Silverton. The hike to this turquoise blue waterfall is very short and easy, and the perfect little side trip if you are hiking Ice Lake Basin.

HIKE TO: South Mineral Creek Falls
TRAILHEAD: Ice Lake Trailhead / South Mineral Campground
MILES: 0.43 miles one-way
TIME: 9 mins one-way
DATE I WENT: 8/4/24
DIFFICULTY: easy
ELEVATION: 9,861 ft
ELEVATION GAIN: 43 ft
HIKE PERMIT: no
PARKING: free
LOCATION: San Juan Mountains — Colorado

South Mineral Creek Falls has become increasingly popular in the San Juan Mountains of Colorado, and for good reason. Stunning red rocks surround this turquoise waterfall and give off Oregon or Havasupai vibes, making it one of Colorado’s best waterfall hikes. It’s a little slice of PNW in the best part of Colorado.

The waterfall features two distinct tiers, with the upper drop cascading approximately 35 feet into a picturesque swimming hole, while the lower section plunges an additional 20 feet (ish), creating a stunning visual spectacle framed by vibrant red rocks and lush alpine scenery.

South Mineral Creek Falls Trailhead

The trailhead starts at the Ice Lake Trail parking lot which is also right next to South Mineral Creek Campground. Your hike can start either up the 4×4 dirt road between the campground and Ice Lake Trailhead, or you can start by hiking through the campground if you know where to turn off.

This trip report starts up the road which is a clear path to find and I’d recommend following this way over.

Hike to South Mineral Creek Falls

From Ice Lake Trailhead, follow the road (Forest Road 585 South Mineral) for about 4 minutes and when the road starts to turn, you will see an unofficial, narrow used dirt trail to your left. This point is just after the road crosses Clear Creek underneath the road and you can see the creek with all the old trees coming down to your right.

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The dirt trail is easy to follow mostly. 

In about two minutes, you will come to a junction. Take the narrow dirt path straight in front of you and you will be hiking in the dense trees to the waterfall in no time.

The trail ascends a little bit from here but in another two minutes but it’s very gradual. You will cross over a fallen tree trunk about 2 feet high which you can step right over and just up ahead at the end, you will get your first glimpse of the turquoise creek known as South Fork Mineral Creek.

Continue following up along the edge of the cliff to stay on the trail to the upper tier (more popular) and you will be there in no time. The trail gets narrow so be careful as you are on walking along a cliff with the creek beneath you. Below is a photo walking to the falls, and one looking back on the trail.

In another two minutes, you will come to a breathtaking view of the waterfall.

Hike down slowly and enjoy the views. The waterfall flows very strongly in the summer so be very careful if you plan to go in the water as it looks like it gets a bit deep and can sweep you under quickly.

The hike took 9 minutes one way. It’s only 0.41 miles with 114 ft of elevation gain making it a must-do hike for all levels. The views you get for this easy little hike is simply unbelievable. 

If you continue following the creek (from above) up further, you will be rewarded with more cascading views. Same with lower down.

When you are ready, head out the way you came in. If you walk into the campground on your way back, just follow the main road and it will lead you directly back to the Ice Lake Trailhead where you parked. You will also cross a small creek on the way to the campground and there is a restroom. There are also porta-potties at the parking lot.

FAQ: Where is South Fork Mineral Creek?

South Fork Mineral Creek is located near Silverton, Colorado in the San Juan Mountains. The hike starts at the South Mineral Campground near Ice Lake Basin.

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