Willow Falls are located west of Silverthorne, CO in the Eagles Nest Wilderness Area. South Willow Creek is born from the slopes connecting Eccles Pass and Red Buffalo Pass, flowing east and dropping precipitously through a narrow gap between Buffalo Mountain's steep north flank, and Red Peak's lengthy east ridge. The Mesa Cortina and Gore Range trails offer terrestrial and ecological diversity, 3-4 season accessibility and multi-sport utility. Mild grades and good trail conditions are well suited for families, backpackers, runners and winter recreation.

Upper Willow Falls presents the most voluminous cascade

The fall season brings brilliant changes to the area's aspen trees

Buffalo Mountain (left) and Red Peak (right) are consistent monuments throughout the hike

The trail heads north through stands of beautiful aspen trees - making this a great fall hike

Upper Willow Falls drops into a deep green pool before cascading into Lower Willow Falls

Falling aspen leaves carpet the interior of the forest

Just before dying, aspen leaves reach the height of color

A hiker sets out in the early morning on the Mesa Cortina Trail

Willow Falls is also accessible from the Buffalo Cabin Trail - a shorter hike but a bit steeper

Aspen groves cover the east ridge of Red Peak

Aspen bark produces a resin with a high, natural UV protection

Mixed pine and aspen commingle in the upper montane forest surrounding Willow Falls

Upper Willow Falls

Aspen along the Mesa Cortina Trail

A massive 20' high block of granite lets hikers know they are only .2 miles from the falls