A Guide to Waterfalls in the San Juan Mountains 


Whitmore Falls

near Lake City, Colorado

Whitmore Falls, a majestic 40-foot plunging waterfall, cascades gracefully amidst rugged rock cliffs. Nestled just 0.10 of a mile off Engineer Pass along the scenic Alpine Loop on County Road 20, this natural wonder is a sight to behold. The pristine waters of Whitmore Falls flow gracefully from Henson Creek, offering a mesmerizing display of nature's power and beauty.

Description:  


Even though the road is a little rough and the foot trail a little steep, it's always worth the extra stop. I love how Whitmore Falls changes over the seasons. In the fall, the water trickles as it slides down the ice. During the summer, it bursts through the rocks above pounding the pool of water below. No matter the season, it never fails to show its beauty!


This 40 ft plunging waterfall is surrounded by rock cliffs and located.10 of a mile off of Engineer Pass/The Alpine Loop/County Road 20. The water flows from Henson Creek. 


Directions:

From Lake City on Hwy 149, take CR 20 at the Engineer Pass/Alpine Loop sign. Continue for about 11 miles. It is a 2WD road that will take you past the historic site of Capitol City. After Capitol City, the road gets pretty rough and an SUV or 4WD vehicle would fare best.


At the Falls: 

There is a small pull off on the right side of the road about 2 miles past Capitol City. The trail is marked by a sign on the left side of the road. There is a trail leading to an observation point and another steep, loose scree, gravel trail leading down to the falls.


An up close view of Whitmore Falls, a majestic 40-foot plunging waterfall, cascades gracefully amidst rugged rock cliffs. Nestled just 0.10 of a mile off Engineer Pass along the scenic Alpine Loop on County Road 20, this natural wonder is a sight to behold. The pristine waters of Whitmore Falls flow gracefully from Henson Creek, offering a mesmerizing display of nature's power and beauty.

Click the pictures below for more!