Palisade Falls

Dogs Leashed

Features Geological Significance · River/Creek · Views · Waterfall · Wildflowers

Easy and accessible, Palisade Falls is a great option for hiking with kids, for a quick jaunt while adjusting to altitude, or for a scenic stop along the way to something longer and more difficult. The trail is popular and busy, but the amphitheater-like basalt columns and the water flowing down the volcanic remnants make the crowds worth it.

Follow Hyalite Canyon Road for almost 12 miles to the southeast end of the Hyalite Reservoir where FS Road #3163 departs to the east—look for signage for Palisade Falls Trailhead. Continue down FS Road #3163 for just over 1.0 mile, and the well-marked trailhead will be on the left. The large parking area also serves a picnic area, and has restrooms and trailhead maps and associated info.

The Palisade Falls Trail #433 enters the trees immediately, and winds through mixed spruce, fir, and pine—the tree cover makes this a fantastic shaded summer adventure. At 0.5 miles, the trail emerges from the trees at the base of a scree field, and the falls come into view. The pavement ends, and various social trails climb the final pitch to the base of the waterfall. After exploring, head back down the trail to the parking and picnic area.

This trail makes for a good winter outing too as the trail gets packed in and the icefall is as beautiful as the waterfall.