Introduction
There’s something magnetic about Telluride that keeps pulling me back. This was my fourth time exploring the area—and Irene’s first—and I knew immediately that a visit to Bridal Veil Falls had to be part of the trip. Nestled just outside of town in the Uncompahgre National Forest, this iconic waterfall is the tallest free-falling cascade in Colorado, plunging 365 feet from the cliff’s edge.
We opted to hike the Bridal Veil Falls Trail rather than drive to the top, which allowed us to truly experience the layers of beauty this canyon offers. Starting from the Valley View parking area, our route was approximately 2.5 miles round trip with about 850 feet of elevation gain. The trail climbs steadily through forested switchbacks, across bridges, and alongside rushing creeks—each twist revealing more of the stunning San Juan scenery. This trail isn’t just a path to a waterfall—it’s an immersive journey filled with morning light, wildflower surprises, and new falls around each bend.
An Early Start with Mountain Views
Knowing how popular this trail can get, we arrived early and were lucky enough to snag a parking spot at the Valley View lot. From the trailhead, we could already see the distant roar of Bridal Veil Falls—seemingly far off and high above us. Ingram Falls also made an appearance, cascading gracefully down the neighboring mountain, reminding me of an earlier trip when Bill and I dipped our heads into the creek after driving Black Bear Pass.
The morning air was crisp, still in the 40s, but we warmed up quickly as we moved through the forest. Birdsong echoed between the trees, and wildflowers peeked out from shady groves. As we climbed higher, the sunlight began illuminating the opposite ridge—painting the mountain in golden hues and adding a magical glow to the trail.
Bridge Crossing and the First Misty Reward
As we continued, the terrain shifted between shady woods and more exposed, rocky outcrops. Eventually, we reached a bridge crossing Ingram Creek—rushing with meltwater and glinting in the morning light. From this vantage point, Bridal Veil still looked far away, but the trail was leading us straight toward it.
Not long after, we arrived at Lower Bridal Veil Falls, which can only be seen from the hiking path. These powerful cascades were an unexpected bonus—gushing with energy and sending mist floating on the breeze. A refreshing spray greeted us as we paused to admire the sight. Most visitors who drive miss this lower section entirely, making the effort of hiking all the more worthwhile.
Surprise at Middle Bridal Veil Falls
A bit further up the trail, we stumbled onto Middle Bridal Veil Falls, about the halfway point of our hike. I hadn’t known this tier existed—it was a pleasant surprise! The falls tumbled gracefully down the red rock cliffs, framed by lush green foliage and dramatic canyon walls. We took a quick break, snapped a few photos, and shared a little dance on the trail before pushing on.
The Final Climb to the Main Falls
The path steepened as we neared the top—rockier, more rugged, but also more invigorating. We could hear the main falls before we saw them, and the rising mist above the treetops signaled we were close. Rounding a final bend, we were greeted by the full force of Bridal Veil Falls.
The sheer power was breathtaking. Water thundered over the cliff and crashed onto the boulders below, creating a constant plume of mist that drifted into the sunbeams. Irene raised her arms, soaking in the magic, as birds darted through the mist and moss glowed neon green on the rocks. For a moment, it felt like we had stepped into another world—something out of Hawaii or the Scottish Highlands. It was hard to believe we were still in Colorado.
Views on the Descent
After lingering at the base of the falls, we eventually made our way back down, stopping often to admire the views that opened up across the valley. Below us, Telluride lay nestled in its alpine bowl, quiet and sun-drenched. The descent felt easier, lighter—like the mountain had gifted us something powerful to carry home.
Reflections
I’ve visited Bridal Veil before, but something about this hike felt different. Maybe it was seeing it through Irene’s eyes for the first time, or maybe it was the sheer beauty of the morning: birdsong, wildflowers, sunlight on stone, and the ever-present sound of falling water. Every visit offers something new—a hidden cascade, a quiet moment on the trail, or a misty surprise just around the bend.
Bridal Veil never disappoints. It reminds me why we lace up our boots—to feel small beneath towering cliffs, to witness beauty carved by water and time, and to share these moments with those we care about. This hike wasn’t just a walk to a waterfall—it was a memory in the making.
Whether it’s your first trip or your fourth, Bridal Veil Falls always finds a way to leave you breathless.
Western Wanderlust Chronicles 
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