You Can Get A Taste Of Hawaii On This Secluded Hike With Mossy Waterfalls In Colorado
You'll have to find the swimming hole. 👀
"Little Hawaii" is nestled in the Colorado forest.
If the tropics are always calling your name, there is a way to get a taste of paradise in the Rocky Mountain state. Little Hawaii trail in Telluride is a very popular hidden gem that brings the cliffs and falls of the islands to the alpine mountains. You can find this trail off the beaten path for the perfect afternoon away from reality.
"Little Hawaii" is nestled in the Colorado forest. It's sprinkled with lush greenery and rock faces covered in cascading crystal falls.
A recent hiker told Narcity that you can reach the oasis by taking Bear Creek Trail for about 20 minutes to the most substantial clearing before turning left.
There is a very obvious social trailhead in the vast space that heads toward the water. Follow that smaller trail to a bridge made of two logs.
Once you cross it, you'll keep heading north until you find paradise. Hug the river until you reach it.
The falls are so secluded; it'll be an adventure to find them. Bear Creek Trail itself is a 2.5-mile trek and is rated as easy to moderate.
Depending on where you park, a permit might be required by the city, but you can find free parking at the West Pacific Street Carhenge Lot.
As you walk into the "hidden" lagoon, you'll be greeted by lush greenery and gorgeous waterfalls that create a secret alcove just like something you'd find on the actual islands.
You'll feel like you just scaled a Hawaiian mountain instead of an alpine one.
There are no trashcans along the hike, so it's essential to leave no trace and tread carefully along the path.
Local newspapers have recently reported on the impact of the popularity of this natural wonder. The area's wildlife is endangered by the overuse of the trail, and local authorities are looking at solutions to ensure its protection.
Just because we can't jet off to Hawaii on a whim, doesn't mean we can't bring the islands to us.
Little Hawaii Trail
Difficulty: Moderate
Length: 2.5 miles
Location: Latitude: N37.93, Longitude: W-107.81.
Why You Need To Go: You can discover a tropical paradise in the middle of this alpine forest.
Before you get going, check out our Responsible Travel Guide so you can be informed, be safe, be smart, and most of all, be respectful on your adventure.
This article has been updated since it was originally published on April 24, 2020.