Rifle Falls State Park facts for kids
Quick facts for kids Rifle Falls State Park |
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Snow and ice covered falls in the park
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 Rifle Falls State Park
Location in Colorado
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| Location | Garfield County, Colorado, USA |
| Nearest city | Rifle, Colorado |
| Area | 48 acres (0.19 km2) |
| Established | 1966 |
| Governing body | Colorado Parks and Wildlife |
Rifle Falls State Park is a beautiful Colorado State Park located in Garfield County. It's found northeast of the town of Rifle, in Colorado. This park is famous for its amazing triple waterfall. The waterfall is about 70 feet (21 meters) tall and flows over a special rock called travertine on East Rifle Creek.
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Discovering Rifle Falls State Park
Rifle Falls State Park is a super easy and fun place to visit. The main waterfalls are very close to the parking area, only about 50 yards away. There's a flat path, so it's a simple walk for everyone. The falls look lovely almost any time of the year. Near the parking lot, you'll find nice picnic spots, restrooms, and fresh drinking water.
Exploring the Waterfalls
The park's main attraction is the stunning triple waterfall. It's a great spot for taking photos or just enjoying nature. The water cascades down over unique rock formations, creating a misty, magical atmosphere.
Hiking and Caves
There's a short hiking trail that goes up and around the top of the waterfalls. This trail is a bit steep and rocky, but it's only about one mile (1.6 kilometers) round trip. Along the path, you can explore several small caves. These caves are home to three different kinds of bats! The hike also leads to a rock ledge right behind one of the falls. From there, you get a cool, misty view of the water.
Wildlife and Nature
Rifle Falls State Park is home to many different animals. You might see mule deer, elk, and coyotes. Look closely, and you might spot a golden-mantled ground squirrel scurrying around. If you enjoy fishing, you can try to catch rainbow and brown trout in the creek. The park's limestone cliffs also provide homes for various creatures.
