You can scale 224 steps alongside a cascading waterfall (bragging rights) or do what we did and take the elevator. Either way, Seven Falls in Colorado Springs, CO, USA is accessible. Seven Falls is one of the most beautiful natural wonders in the United States. Put the Broadmore Seven Falls on your must-see Colorado travel list. Here is everything you need to know before you visit this remarkable waterfall.
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This Thanksgiving, Steve and I traveled to Colorado Springs to visit family. We found Seven Falls by chance – it turned out to be one of the highlights. Of course, visiting my son and new grandbaby was the ultimate highlight, but The Broadmore Seven Falls was a surprise.
Getting There – Parking and Shuttle Service to the Entrance of The Seven Falls:
The Colorado Springs waterfall—Seven Falls—does not allow parking at the site. Don’t let the shuttle deter you. The main parking lot is located at The Broadmoor World Center Arena. A complimentary shuttle picks you up and whisks you to the park entrance in 10 minutes.
The Seven Falls Park shuttle is free and seems to run on a very efficient schedule.
Guests who have accommodations booked at The Broadmoor Resort can take a free shuttle from the resort to the 1858 restaurant, which is located at Seven Falls. We were not lucky enough to have a booked stay at the Broadmoor Resort, but it is on our bucket list. Talk about beautiful resorts!
Broadmoor Seven Falls free shuttle parking is at 1045 Lower Gold Camp Road, Colorado Springs, CO 80905.
Admission costs to see this popular Colorado Springs waterfall vary, with several discounts available. Learn from our mistake. On the day we booked this attraction, I paid $23 and Steve received a senior discount of $16. We did not realize that eating at the restaurant would have gotten us in for free.
Hike To Seven Falls:
Once you arrive, prepare for a scenic uphill walk. Hiking to Seven Falls is just under one mile and paved. The walkway was fairly easy for us as a 50-plus couple. Along the way, you will be treated to lovely scenery, gentle flowing streams, and stunning views.
While the path was relatively easy, we visited in late November, and it was very cold. Be sure to check the weather and dress accordingly. We found it much colder at the park than in the valley.
If walking uphill is not your thing, don’t worry—a golf cart service is available to take you back down the walkway after you soak up the views. Ask one of the workers to help you get a lift back to the park entrance.
Taking in the Views: The Best Colorado Springs Waterfall:
At the top of the path, guests have two options to view Seven Falls.
1. The Elevator to the viewing platform
A convenient elevator will transport you to the viewing platform. From the viewing area, you will get panoramic views of the waterfalls. Since we’re about relaxing travel here, the elevator was our choice.
2. Take the Stairs to Seven Falls
Feeling adventurous? Steep stairs wind their way through 7 cascading waterfalls. Unfortunately, due to snow and ice, these staircases were closed. I spoke to a Seven Falls worker who said climbing all those stairs is no small feat. If you have climbed all 224 stairs, congratulations! I bet the views were amazing!
Dining at Restaurant 1858:
One of the highlights of the day was our lunch at Restaurant 1858.
The 1858 restaurant is located right at the base of the falls. The warm atmosphere was perfect after a chilly day.
Travel Tip: Make Reservations!
If reservations are not possible, plan on arriving early as soon as they open at 11 am. Otherwise, you will likely miss out, as this is one of the most popular dining spots in the area. The food and service did not disappoint.
Pro Tips for spending an afternoon at Seven Falls:
- Arrive early: We arrived early and enjoyed unobstructed views. The grounds of Seven Falls were peaceful and uncrowded. We spent about 2 hours on the grounds. By the time we were ready to leave, the place was packed. We are early birds and reaped the rewards of a more pleasant experience.
- Plan for the Weather – Temperatures in Colorado Springs can vary drastically. We found it much colder on the mountain.
- Take Advantage of the Golf Cart: If you are tired or need a lift, ask for a golf cart ride back to the entrance. Steve and I asked at the 1858 Restaurant, and they called one.
- Seasonal Opening: Due to the nature of the weather, Seven Falls closes from early December to mid-March. Check the official Broadmoor Seven Falls website for hours, pricing, and details on visitor information.
- Learn from Our Mistake: Save money when you dine at Restaurant 1858 by receiving free admission to the falls.
More waterfalls in the Pikes Peak Region:
It’s true, Seven Falls is the crown jewel near Pikes Peak. There are many other waterfalls to explore in the area. Some other popular outdoor attractions include Helen Hunt Falls, found in North Cheyenne Canon Park. For those visiting closer to Pikes Peak, check out Rainbow Falls.
