Bridal Veil Falls — 365ft Plunge in Colorado

Bridal Veil Falls is a 365-foot plunge waterfall in San Miguel County, Colorado, reached by a moderate hike over 2 miles.

Bridal Veil Falls in San Miguel County, Colorado is the 365-foot ribbon waterfall above Telluride — the tallest free-falling waterfall in Colorado and the iconic backdrop visible from downtown Telluride year-round. The historic Smuggler-Union hydroelectric power plant sits perched at the top of the falls (built in 1907, still operating, on the National Register), and the 2-mile dirt road climb up to the powerhouse is one of the more dramatic short drives in the San Juans. The road is rough enough that most visitors hike it; the upper sections require 4WD when wet.

What to expect

Drive Telluride's main street east until it ends at the trailhead/road base — Bridal Veil is straight ahead. Hike or drive (4WD only, road is rough) the 2 miles up to the powerhouse. Parking is limited at the top. The historic powerhouse is photogenic but private — respect signage. The road becomes a Jeep route in summer continuing to Black Bear Pass; do not attempt without serious 4WD experience. Best summer (June-September); winter the road closes to vehicles.