About
Colorado has a waterfall so striking that National Geographic named it to their list of International Waterfalls. Welcome to The Broadmoor Seven Falls! The water tumbles down a 1,250-foot-walled South Cheyenne Canyon framed by two granite towers known as the Pillars of Hercules.
Our story begins in 1883, when James Hull opened a road into Seven Falls, charging a 10-cent access fee. In 1905, Melvin and Frances Weimer operated Seven Falls, using burros to transport guests. Celebrities like Babe Ruth often visited, adding mystique and allure to the natural wonder.
Al Hill purchased the land from the Weimers in 1946 and transformed the property into one of Colorado Springs’ most distinctive tourist destinations. Hill invested heavily in modernizing the experience, adding the Eagle’s Nest overlook, a cable car, extensive nighttime lighting, and special events. He preserved popular traditions such as the burros while introducing features, like the elevator through the mountain to Eagle’s Nest in 1992.
In 2013, a devastating flood rendered Seven Falls inoperable and unsafe. The Hill family sold it to The Broadmoor, which spent $12 million to make repairs and transform it into a full outdoor destination, reopening in 2015. They added hiking trails, a restaurant, zip lines, picnic areas, and other activities. They retained the historic stairs, elevator, Eagle's Nest, and nighttime illumination.
With its natural beauty, restaurant, trails, and gift shop, The Broadmoor Seven Falls will amaze and delight!
The Broadmoor Seven Falls: Fun Facts & Cool Features
When planning your visit, be sure to order your online tickets in advance. You’ll park at The Norris Penrose Event Center and present your QR code from your email confirmation.
A shuttle will drop you off at the entrance for the enjoyable .8-mile walk called “The Grandest Mile.” You’ll be surrounded by breathtaking views of rock formations such as Eagle's Cliff, Half Dome, Alligator's Head, Prospect Dome, and Washington's Profile. If the elevation and distance are too much, a shuttle is available as well.
Once you reach the main area with the restaurant and gift shop, you have two options for viewing the falls. The first is the 185 steps to the Eagle’s Nest viewing platform offering a photo-worthy perspective of the falls. If the steps are too much, hitch a ride on the Mountain Elevator. No matter how you get there, keep in mind that you won’t have access to the falls.
For that experience, consider the more popular (and challenging) option of climbing the steep 224 steps to the top of the falls. You’ll pass the cascading water as you ascend, and there’s a platform about halfway for resting and more photo ops. Unlike the Eagle's Nest, there isn't an elevator to the top.
At the summit, enjoy a moderate hike on the Inspiration Point trail that's 1.2 miles with 400’ of climbing. Once you reach the precipice, you’ll understand why writer/poet Helen Hunt Jackson visited for inspiration.
An easier hike is the Midnight Falls trail, a 0.7-mile out-and-back trek that takes about 20 minutes to complete.
For an adrenaline rush, consider the outdoor activities offered with Soaring Adventure. From ziplining to suspension bridges, this facility will appeal to thrill seekers!
Dining at Restaurant 1858 rounds out the experience with a timeless setting and seasonal fare for lunch and dinner.
A visit to Seven Falls earns its place on any Colorado Springs vacation, with its history, towering granite, and rushing water.
Local Tips
- Buy tickets online 24 hours ahead to lock in lower rates and secure a spot.
- A park entrance ticket is required to eat at Restaurant 1858.
- Plan for 2 to 2.5 hours, and add time if you want to hike the upper trails or dine at Restaurant 1858.
- Stay after dark to catch the falls lit up, and preview the view on the park's live webcam.
