Upper Piney River Falls Trail Route Guide
Table of contents
Route Description for Upper Piney River Falls Trail
The trail to Upper Piney River Falls starts at Piney River Ranch, a privately-owned ranch that shares land with the US Forest Service. Parking is located in a dirt parking lot right before the entrance to the Ranch. You will see the dirt trail on the left and slightly uphill of the ranch welcome sign.
The trail briefly passes through an aspen stand before opening up to a stunning view of Piney Lake and the Piney River drainage with the highest peaks in the Gore Range proudly standing in the background. It is a breath-taking view and one of the best of the Gore Range.
0.8 km into the hike, you'll come across another trail sign welcoming you to the Eagles Nest Wilderness. From here, continue to follow the trail along Piney River towards the mountains.
Roughly 2 km in, the trail forks. The left (upper) trail leads to Marugg Creek, while the right (lower) trail continues through the Piney River drainage to the cascading waterfall. You’ll want to take the left (upper) trail.
The trail continues for another 1 km on the hillside and then begins to gain elevation through the aspen and pine forest. Look down into the valley to see the mesmerizing, meandering Piney River as it feeds into Piney Lake. Pines slowly replace the aspen trees as you encounter two creek crossings, both with small trunk bridges to guide you across.
4 km in, you'll start to gradually descend towards the river. The last 1 km will take you along a massive granite slab to a small, forested area where you will once again hear the rushing waters of Piney River. Once you get to the river, head right to a big granite slab that offers beautiful views of the cascading waterfall and the river below. There are multiple flats spots along the river that are ideal for a picnic.
Follow the trail back to Piney Lake to finish your hike!
At the falls? Discover the best hikes in Vail.
Insider Hints for Upper Piney River Falls Trail
- To get an early start, camp at the free National Forest sites (4) located 328ft from the trailhead.
- Keep an eye out for groundhogs on the creek side of the parking lot and moose near the lake.
- If you're looking to take a dip into the refreshing Piney River waters, venture upstream or downstream of the falls to find a secluded pool.
- Piney Ranch Restaurant is open from 11a.m. - 6p.m. to help re-energize you post-hike (Summer 2018 hours).
Getting to the Upper Piney River Falls Trail Trailhead
From the I-70, take exit 176 for Vail Village. Take roundabout exit to North Frontage Road west. Drive 1.6 km to Red Sandstone Road: turn right. Drive 1.3 km to the dirt Forest Service Road #700. This is a bumpy road and a bit of ground clearance helps. Take this road to the parking lot.Route Information for Upper Piney River Falls Trail
When to do:
Summer/Fall
Backcountry Campsites:
Yes, in Eagle's Nest Wilderness
Toilets:
Yes, at Piney River Ranch
Family friendly:
Yes
Route Signage:
Average
Crowd Levels:
High
Route Type:
Out and back
Upper Piney River Falls Trail Elevation Graph
Weather Forecast
Check Area WeatherReviews for Upper Piney River Falls Trail
The views are unbelievable!
- Trip Length
- 03:00
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- Physical Difficulty
Upper Piney Lake is mesmerizing! It took us 3 hours to finish the trail, but it was pretty easy.
- Trip Length
- 03:00
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The views are heart-warming to see. Not sure if it was a butterfly season, but there are plenty of butterflies flying around.
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It was sunny, and the wind was blowing very gently to cool us during the entire hike. In short, it was perfect!
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It is an easy trail with nice views of Gore Range. Don't forget to visit this place.
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Easy hike to the falls, with great views of the surrounding area.
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Pleasant cascading waterfalls and views. There are few great spots for picnic.
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The lake is stunning, and the views along the way to the waterfall were truly astounding. Don't forget to bring water on this hike. We had a fantastic hiking experience.
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Superb view of the wildflower fields and amazing snow-capped mountains. Well-maintained and easy to follow path. The trail is just a little rocky but manageable.
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The trail is narrow and moderately trafficked. It was filled with amazing views of the lake and mountains. Perfect hike for beginners.
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- Physical Difficulty
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