Helen Hunt Falls

Route Description for Helen Hunt Falls

The Helen Hunt Falls present a stunning scene of cascading waters surging over the smoothed cliffside. Though not an extensive hike, this is a great stop off for those seeking an escape into nature. Have a picnic at the base of the falls in the company of fellow visitors enjoying the panorama before hiking up to the overlook. Note the limited parking lot fills up fast, so if you are stumped for a spot, consider parking across the road at the Upper Columbine Trailhead or Seven Bridges Trailhead. Though the falls are accessible year-round, the cascades tend to weaken in the late summer when the creek dries in the warmer weather, so head out in the spring for the most dramatic spectacle.

Perfect for a spontaneous stop-off or a quick adventure into the fresh air, the Helen Hunt Falls is a popular destination, especially in the summer months. Get an up-close and personal view of the 35ft cascades and let the alpine mist cool you off. If you seek a quick walk, then hike up the 100 steps to the bridge that looms over the waterfall, providing an epic overlook of the surging waters below, fed by the North Cheyenne Creek Canyon above. Get your heart rate up and enjoy the picturesque scene from the footbridge. If the steep stairs aren’t challenging enough, continue along the Silver Cascades Falls Trail to the equally impressive waterfall above.

Embark on your journey to Helen Hunt Falls from the parking lot and visitors center off North Cheyenne Canyon Road. Visible from here, the falls tower above, granting adventurers a picturesque scene. Revel in the sights of the flowing falls from the pool and dip your feet in chilly waters. After taking plenty of photos from the base of the falls, begin your hike up the Silver Cascades Fall Trail. This path will guide you up a vertiginous set of steps lined with mixed pines. Enjoy the panoramas of the vegetation and continue up to the footbridge. You will be rewarded with breathtaking sights of the canyon and mountainous wilderness in the west and the cascades flowing below in the east from the bridge. Enjoy the vista and when you are ready, retrace your footing down the path back to the visitors center and trailhead.

Trail Highlights

Helen Hunt Falls

The Helen Hunt Falls is a 11 m waterfall in the North Cheyenne Cañon Park, west of Colorado Springs. Following from the North Cheyenne Creek, these stunning cascades attract visitors year-round. This busy destination is best enjoyed in the spring when the snow-melt falls are overflowing. Enjoy the sights of the chute pouring over the smooth granite cliffside and capped by a walking bridge.

The falls were named in honor of Helen Hunt Jackson in 1966, who was buried in Colorado Springs. An American poet and writer, Helen Hunt, advocated on behalf of the improved treatment of Native Americans by the US government. Learn more about Helen Hunt and her quest to better the quality of life for Native Americans in the museum and visitors center at the base of the falls.

Frequently Asked Questions

Do you have to pay to visit the Helen Hunt Falls?

No, visiting Helen Hunt Falls is free of charge.

How long is the hike to Helen Hunt Falls?

The trek to the Helen Hunt Falls is only 0.2 km, but it extends further for those seeking a longer hike.

Why is it called Helen Hunt Falls?

The falls were named for Helen Hunt Jackson, a poet, and writer who advocated on behalf of Native Americans.

Insider Hints for Helen Hunt Falls

• The parking lot at the falls fills up fast, so visitors may have to park up the road at pull-off #3
• Explore the museum and learn more about Helen Hunt
• Hike up the 100 steps to the bridge over the cascades which provides epic views of the waterfall and mountainous landscape
• Pack a lunch and have a picnic at the base of the falls