Broadmoor’s Seven Falls: Adventure or Just a Tourist Trap?

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They call it the “Grandest Mile of Scenery in Colorado.” It promises a jaw-dropping series of waterfalls tumbling down a natural box canyon, along with a steep physical challenge. The state of Colorado features just one waterfall highlighted in National Geographic’s list of international waterfalls. But with ticket prices and crowds, the big question remains: Is Broadmoor’s Seven Falls a genuine natural wonder, or is it just a tourist trap?

We headed to Colorado Springs to tackle the famous 224-step staircase ourselves to find out if the journey to the top is worth the hype. Here is your complete guide to visiting Seven Falls.

1. The Logistics: It Doesn’t Start at the Falls

The first thing you need to know is that your adventure does not begin at the canyon entrance. You cannot simply drive up to the waterfalls and park.

Instead, you must head to the Norris Penrose Event Center, located about 4 miles away from the falls.

• Parking: Parking here is free.
• The Shuttle: A free shuttle runs constantly to take you from the event center to the park entrance. The ride takes about 10 to 15 minutes.

• Pro Tip: Buy your tickets online beforehand. This allows you to scan a QR code at the parking area, pick up your wristband, and get straight to the adventure without waiting in line at the ticket booth.

2. The Approach: Tram vs. Hiking

Once the shuttle drops you off, you still aren’t at the falls.

You are at the start of a 0.8-mile paved road leading into the canyon. You can pay extra for a tram ride, but unless you have mobility issues, we highly recommend walking.

The walk is a huge part of the experience. You are immediately “swallowed up” by South Cheyenne Canyon, with the sound of the creek becoming a constant companion. Keep your eyes peeled for:

• The towering Pillars of Hercules: Two massive rock towers shooting nearly 1,000 feet up on either side (specifically 790 feet high and 41 feet wide).

• Washington’s Profile: If you look closely at the rock formations, you can spot a nose and profile that looks distinctly like George Washington.

3. The Main Event: The 224 Steps

A common misconception is that Seven Falls consists of seven totally separate waterfalls. In reality, it is one massive waterfall cascading 181 feet down in seven distinct steps.

While the view from the base of the falls is impressive, the full experience requires climbing the 224 steep, narrow metal steps that run alongside the thundering water.

Make no mistake—this climb will make your legs feel like “jello”, and the altitude may leave you breathless. However, there are platforms along the way where you can catch your breath and view the different sections of the falls, from “Ramona” at the bottom to “Bridal Veil” at the top.

Now, look down upon the magnificent series of waterfalls that make up the Seven Falls.  The view from the top of Seven Falls shows you just how high you climbed and makes you appreciate the natural beauty of the falls.

4. Beyond the Stairs: The Hidden Hikes

Reaching the top of the stairs isn’t the end of the road; for many, it’s just the start of the next adventure. Once you conquer the steps, you have access to two additional trails.

Midnight Falls (The Cool Down):

This is a shorter trail—about a 20- to 30-minute round-trip. It follows a creek to a small, private waterfall. It is shaded, peaceful, and a great way to cool down after the strenuous stair climb.

Inspiration Point (The Challenge):

If you have the energy, this Inspiration Point trail is a must. It is a little over a mile round trip (about an hour to an hour and 15 minutes).

The Reward:

The overlook offers sweeping views of the Great Plains and the city of Colorado Springs laid out below.

History:

This spot was so beloved by writer Helen Hunt Jackson that she asked to be buried here. You can visit her original grave site near the point.

5. Accessibility: The Eagle’s Nest

If the idea of 224 stairs sounds impossible, you don’t have to miss out. The park features an elevator cut into the rock that takes you up to the Eagle’s Nest.  You can climb up the stairs, but we took the elevator after tackling the 224 stairs by the falls.  

This platform offers a “birds-eye” view across from the falls. It is wheelchair accessible and features a mural, the Seven Falls Shop, and information kiosks. It’s a great way to see the grandeur of the canyon without the physical strain of the stairs.

6. Key Takeaways

The Verdict

So, is it a trap? In our opinion, the answer is a resounding no.

The combination of the dramatic box canyon, the physical challenge of the stairs, and the serenity of the upper hiking trails makes it a fantastic experience.

Time to budget: Plan for about 2 to 2.5 hours to take the shuttle, hike the canyon, climb the stairs, and explore the upper trails.

Have you braved the 224 steps at Seven Falls? Let us know in the comments below!  Feel free to share this post with family and friends.  If you like this post, we have posts in this area on our Weekend in Manitou Springs, Pikes Peak Cog Train, Garden of the Gods, and more.