|
| ADVENTURES - WINTER | ||
Agnes Vaille Falls - Nathrop, Colorado 
Agnes Vaille Falls is a hiking trail in the Chalk Creek Canyon, near Nathrop, Colorado. The trail meanders about .5 miles up the side of Mt. Princeton, until you reach the falls. There are amazing views of Mt. Antero and the Chalk Creek Canyon. We visited Agnes Vaille Falls in January, armed with our trusty snowshoes. Good thing, because we encountered about 12 inches of new snow. The trail winds through an abundance of San Isabel National Forest trees, and with all the new snow, we got quite a workout. There is about a 450 ft gain in elevation, so take your time in snowshoes--plenty of chances to take in the majestic views of Mt. Antero across the way while you break for oxygen. As you make your way closer to the falls, the trail gets rockier--and in winter, much more slippery. We found a high point where we could view the falls from the side of the creek, and that was really great--any farther might’ve been dangerous due to a large amount of rocks below as well as falling rocks above. The falls are beautiful--icy-but-still-flowing--which I understand is not always the case in winter. You might experience the same thing. This is a very popular trail in summer, especially being across the street from Chalk Creek Campground. But in winter, it might just be all yours... Getting There: From Nathrop Colorado on Hwy 285 (just south of Buena Vista) go west on County Road 162 nine miles until you see the Agnes Vaille Falls trailhead on your right. The Chalk Creek Campground is directly across the street. San Isabel National Forest ranger: 719-553-1400. If You Go in Winter: Park across the street if the parking lot is snowed in. We nestled into a wider section of road, and so did another couple, which was fine. Not too much traffic out there. Also, bring water! It’s very dry there and you’ll be thirsty during/after your hike. Don’t Miss: The Mt. Princeton Hot Springs Resort, which you will pass 5 miles up CR 162 before you reach the trailhead. This is an incredible place to soak in either a 90F Olympic-sized pool, 100F soaking pool, or literally in the creek in one of several mini-pools that mix 135F hot springs with 35F creek water. Ahhhh. www.mtprinceton.com or 888-395- 2447. |
||
