Waterfall Hero Hikes: Zapata Falls

Zapata Falls is a 25-foot waterfall on South Zapata Creek in Alamosa County, Colorado. The waterfall is located on property owned by Colorado State Land Board and accessed from Zapata Falls Campground, a Bureau of Land Management Special Recreation Management Area.

Hike Length: 0.8 miles
Estimated Time: 1 hour
Difficulty: Moderate
Location: Zapata Falls Natural Area
Trail Users: Hiking
Dogs: Yes
Features: Waterfalls (1)
Crowds: High
Warnings: The rocks around the waterfalls are very slippery. In warmer weather, you will have to wade the creek to reach the falls. In cold weather, micro-spikes are needed for access.
Trailhead GPS: 37.62164,-105.55973
Waterfall GPS: 37.61961,-105.55381

Directions:

From Alamosa, head east on US-160 for about 17 miles and turn left on CO-150 north. Drive 10.7 miles and turn right on Zapata Falls Road. Go 3.5 miles up this very rough gravel road to to the day-use parking on the left at Zapata Falls Campground. The road is very rough but can be done in a 2WD sedan.

Map:

Hike Description:

Zapata Falls Trail picks up from across the parking lot and leads under a half-mile to South Zapata Creek. From here, wade in the creek and head into the canyon.