Colorado Spring Hikes: The Beauty of Bridal Veil Falls

For pure enjoyment of the hike and the surroundings, it's hard to beat Bridal Veil Falls in Telluride.

Welcome to the tallest free-falling waterfall in Colorado: Bridal Veil Falls.

A moderate hike of about an hour will take you right to the top where the scenery is unmatched. World travelers make it a destination spot as well as winter enthusiasts like ice climbers.

Your hike starts at the McGraw Ranch. Established in 1884 the ranch has seen several owners since then. Owned now by the park service, it serves as a research facility.

Making your way along the trail you will see Cow Creek as well as signs pointing to various locations along the trail such as a smaller waterfall and an old horse hitching post. Just over 3 miles in you will arrive at the base of the falls. It's a short but somewhat difficult hike to the top, but one you really won't want to miss.

Also included in the hike is what is probably the coolest electric plant ever, the Smuggler-Union hydroelectric plant, built in 1907.

As to when you want to hike this trail, spring offers the best waterfall views because of the runoff. And with this year's snowfall, it should be impressive indeed. If you wait until fall, you will be rewarded with the changing colors of the Aspen trees.

Truly one of my favorite hikes.