Go through a cave to climb into a waterfall for the price of only a ¼ mile hike? Count me in! I was a little suspicious when the guide suggested that we do the Zapata Falls hike during the heat of the day.
Even in the Colorado 90 degrees is hot!
The entrance to Zapata Falls is about three miles from the Great Sand Dunes. A rough rock road leads to a short ¼ mile hike to the falls. A longer 4 mile “straight up” hike leads to the Zapata Lake that feeds the falls. After the Great Sand Dunes climb the day before the Joyous Family declined the longer hike, especially in the middle of the day!
Bumping our way up to the Zapata Falls there was some apprehension. Is this worth the trouble instead of just sitting in the creek at The Great Sand Dunes during the heat of the day. The answer: a resounding yes! After the short hike your feet are treated to a cold mountain stream that leads into more beautiful rock formations and colder water.

Narrows in Bryce Canyon — a cavern than a cave. Similar to the Narrows in Bryce Canyon, you must wade through the stream to see the rushing waterfall.
The middle of the day hike is necessary to deal with the icy water that awaits. Getting to the fall itself is exhilarating but not treacherous. Footing is not too slipper and there are lots of people around to help. Folks of all ages managed it with easy – even one father caring his 3 year old who happened to be wearing a super man cape (the dad was the true super hero).
Wait there is one more treat for climbing Zapata Falls.
On the way back is the best view of The Great Sand Dunes, my video won’t do it justice.

View of the Great Sand Dunes from Zapata Falls
The whole trip took about 2 hours with plenty of time for throwing rocks in the stream. A not to miss stop– The Great Sand Dunes– for sure. Bonus! This is a state park; so it is Free!
Pack a lunch and spend some time throwing rocks in Zapata Falls.
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