North Clear Creek Falls plunges roughly 85 feet (often cited as 100 feet) over a basalt rim in the Rio Grande National Forest, between Creede and Lake City. A paved access road and short, wheelchair-accessible path lead to an observation overlook above the gorge.
Its 85 ft drop is taller than about 64% of the 775 waterfalls we track.
The falls are fed by North Clear Creek. It lies in Hinsdale, Colorado. The site is on public land managed by Rio Grande National Forest (USFS).
This is a roadside waterfall: visible from a road, parking area, or a walk of a few hundred feet. Little to no walking is required, so it suits a quick roadside pull-off rather than a dedicated hike. The walk to the main viewpoint runs about 0.2 miles round trip. The nearest town is Creede.
When to go: summer. Flow usually peaks after snowmelt and heavy rain and tapers through late summer — a quick look at recent streamflow and the managing agency's conditions page can save a wasted trip.
