South Central Region
Seven Falls, Colorado Springs, CO

Listed in National Geographic Magazine, International waterfalls, Seven Falls was discovered in a narrow box canyon in South Cheyenne Ca?on just a short picturesque drive from Colorado Springs. Though not the most spectacular or tallest of falls, it is worth seeing the cascading 181 feet in seven distinctive waterfalls over a solid cliff of granite.

Viewing is best from the top Eagle's Nest Observation platform. There are two ways to get there. One for the hearty is a 185-step stairway alongside the Falls, the other way is to take the elevator inside the mountain up to the top. Look for the waterfall nesting bird, the American Dipper.

The other 224-step stairway alongside the opposite side of the Falls leads up to the very top and the two hiking trails. These trails at the top of Falls are well worth the effort. One mile hike leads to Inspiration Point and a panoramic view of plains below. The other 1/2 mile trail leads to Midnight Falls, one more beautiful sight.

In the summer and during the fall and winter holidays, catch the illuminating night scene where the entire canyon is lit with lights, leading up to its centerpiece, the Seven Falls, covered in a dazzling show of rainbow colored lights. Suggestion: Best time to visit: early morning or late afternoon until the lights come on. Parking can be scarce and elevator waits can be a long.

During the summer months, enjoy Native Americans perform Indian dances hourly. Watch the multitude of hummingbirds around the feeders, feed the Rainbow trout in the pond, look for mule deer, chipmunks, golden mantle ground squirrels and other wildlife in the canyon on the way up and back.