Seven Falls

Seven Falls is a cascade of seven waterfalls that drop about 180 feet over a series of granite ledges at the end of a narrow box canyon in South Cheyenne Canyon, on the southwest side of Colorado Springs. For more than a century the falls have been a signature stop for visitors to the region, and the setting is dramatic: sheer walls rise on both sides, and mist from the water cools the canyon floor. The attraction is run by the Broadmoor, and the whole experience has been refreshed with a visitor center, a pavilion, pathways and lighting. You can see the lower falls from the canyon floor, then climb a staircase of 224 steps alongside the cascade to a viewing platform and trails to Inspiration Point, where views open across the Front Range.

The falls were a tourist draw long before the automobile, and the canyon has attracted writers and sightseers since the nineteenth century. The Broadmoor's modern restoration after damaging floods has returned a refined setting, with seasonal lighting after dark and a small restaurant for coffee and light meals. A paved path leads from the entrance to the foot of the falls, so the main view requires almost no effort; those who want a closer look can climb the staircase, a workout at around 6,800 feet.

A shorter route skips the stairs and gives a good photograph of the falls from below.

Adventure options sit above the canyon. The Ultimate Seven Falls Zipline Experience takes small groups across a series of lines above the canyon, with guides explaining the geology and wildlife along the route. It suits adults and older children who want a more active day and are comfortable with heights. A shorter walking or hiking option leads to viewpoints above the falls and connects with the trails of the surrounding open space.

Wildlife such as deer and birds of prey sometimes appear. Nature lovers tend to prefer early mornings, when the canyon is quiet, while photographers aim for the light on the canyon walls in the middle of the day. Winter ice formations make for unusual visits when the site is open.

Check operating hours and reservation requirements before you go, because access and parking are managed and the attraction may close in poor weather or for maintenance. Wear sturdy shoes, bring a light jacket for the shaded, damp canyon, and take water for the stairs. The site is close to the Broadmoor hotel, the Cheyenne Mountain Zoo and the Will Rogers Shrine of the Sun, making it easy to combine with the zoo or a scenic drive.

Allow about ninety minutes for the falls and the stairs, or a half day with the zipline. The path to the base of the falls is generally accessible, but the staircase and trails are not.

Seasons matter at the falls. Spring and early summer carry the most water from snowmelt, while late summer flows can be gentler. Fall color brightens the canyon rim, and winter transforms the lower pools into ice sculptures when the site is open. Photographers should bring a lens that handles low light, since the canyon floor is shaded for much of the day. Pack a small rain jacket, because spray from the falls can drift across the viewing platforms and the lower stairs.