Zapata Falls

How to get there: A reasonably well-graded dirt road with signage to Zapata Falls is located approximately five miles south of the Great Sand Dunes National Park entrance on State Highway 150. The road travels uphill approximately 3.5 miles to the trailhead. An overlook with informational signs and restrooms exist at the parking lot. The trail is a moderate 0.5 mile uphill hike to the base of the creek. Wading through the creek is often necessary to reach the waterfall.

Services: For visitors, some services exist in the small towns of Blanca, Mosca and Hooper, with the larger town of Alamosa provided most common services. Camping is offered inside the Great Sand Dunes National Park; Contact the park for rates and availability.

My name is Steve and I live in Buena Vista, Colorado, approximately 100 miles north of Zapata Falls and the Great Sand Dunes. You are also welcome to learn a little more about me on my myspace page by clicking here.

I created this web site to give me an "excuse" to visit this beautiful waterfall more often. After seeing it for the first time in February 2007 (The creek was frozen over; We walked right on top of it!), I felt compelled to make this Internet-based tribute to it.

All the best,
Steve

Zapata Falls Picture Collections

Jumpin Julie, Family, Friends and Steve Garufi (July 2007)

Steve Garufi (April 2007)

Steve Garufi (February 2007)

Area Links

Great Sand Dunes National Park - Official Site
GreatSandDunes.net Community web site
Friends of the Great Sand Dunes - Volunteer group
Alamosa Chamber of Commerce
Gator Farm - Alligator Farm in San Luis Valley
Joyful Journey Hot Springs - Located south of Villa Grove
Bonanza - A ghost town with a rich mining history in Saguache County.
Blanca Peak - A "14er" in Sangre de Cristo Mountain range.
Saguache.org - Saguache County Information
SLV Dweller - San Luis Valley news web site