Cascade Falls Trail is part of an interconnecting system of trails in the basin below the amphitheatre rock formations surrounding the eastern side of the city of Ouray. This is the most popular day hike in the immediate Ouray area. Walking time to the Chief Ouray mine is 2 to 3 hours. The last half mile of trail crosses the rock faces above town. Scenic views of the overall Ouray area and the upper Cascade Falls reward hikers at the top.
Excellent camping facilities, toilets and water are available at the Amphitheatre Campground trailhead.
The Cascade Trail is a well maintained and easy trail to follow. A map at the Amphitheatre Campground Trail Head quickly orients hikers using the system of trails in the amphitheatre basin. From the trailhead, follow the trail to the junction of the Cascade and Portland trails. Turn left, uphill to follow the Cascade Trail. From this point the gradient is fairly steep. In approximately one mile the Portland Trail ties back into Cascade Trail. Take the left fork as signed. From the junction, the trail switchbacks up the mountain to gain elevation to reach the Chief Ouray mine.
The Cascade Falls Trail provides the hiker many excellent vantage points to view Ouray, Canyon Creek and the Sneffels Range to the west. Where the trail crosses Cascade Creek are water falls both above and below the trail. Just beyond the falls are the old steel-sided boarding house and machine shop of the Chief Ouray mine.
Access: Take U.S. 550 one mile south of Ouray to Amphitheatre Campground turnoff. Follow paved road into campground. Keep left to trailhead.
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