Zapata Falls Recreation Area

Zapata Falls Recreation Area Review

If it's a hot day, take a drive to the falls section of the Zapata Falls Recreation Area, about 7 mi south of Great Sand Dunes National Park (and about 10 mi north of Alamosa). From the trailhead, it's a ½-mi hike to the 40-foot waterfall and a mildly steep trail, which can include wading in a stream and walking through a narrow gorge to view the falls (depending on water levels). Air temperatures in the gorge are always cool and inviting, and the falls are beautiful, but be careful of the current (and slippery rocks) here. a picnic area and restrooms are at the entrance. The trailhead is 3½ mi off Highway 150, between mile markers 10 and 11.