Discover the Serenity of Upper Frijoles Falls

We enjoyed hiking to the upper falls overlook in mid-May 2024. The 3-mile out-and-back trail is in good condition, with lots of eye-candy along the way. It took us about 2 hours for the hike. There is about 300’ elevation drop to the overlook spot, so you need to hike back up 300’ to return to the visitor center parking lot. Be aware that the trail to the river is blocked off at the overlook and it is dangerous to proceed any farther.

Great destination! Enjoyed the open trail and peaceful outdoor atmosphere.

This trail is not very well known or taken. It's a 3 mile round trip from the visitor center to the upper falls. The trail to the lower falls and the rio grande is closed and has been for years. Sunscreen and lots of water are a must. Watch out for rattlesnakes while on the trail. The falls dry up in some parts of the year, so try to go in the spring or during monsoon season after a good rain. You can see tent rocks and various geological formations along the trail. The trail is mostly flat with about 400 feet of elevation change over 1.5 miles (each way). The trail is mostly downhill on the way to the falls and uphill back. Best done in the morning or cooler weather

This is a great trail with some definite challenges to be had. The end result however it is an amazing view of the falls from above. About a 3 mile loop trail, you’ll find yourself hiking on either side of the river going from high above down to River level back up. There are spots where the trail is barely a few feet wide, with some potential drops. During the winter, having snow and ice on parts of the trail are very common making it a bit treacherous. However if youse are worth it. If you like hiking this is a great place to come.

The official description says the path is uneven and goes along steep drop-offs. Only the first 100 yards or so are rubble strewn with small and fist size rocks.. The rest is a very well maintained, wide, safe and easy trail. Most of the way, the trail is wide enough for 3 people to walk abreast. Two people wide at its narrowest. Where it goes near a 15 foot drop, the trail is wide enough for 4 people, so you need not go near the edge. The path is a gentle slope for most of its way, with only five or so sections where you gain or lose much elevation over 30 yards. The trail crosses the creek twice, on foot bridges, and provides some nice groves of trees to rest under, with the sound of the babbling stream, the call of the jays, and the rustle of the wind. The hike is worth it. A relatively small stream, it makes a surprisingly majestic impression as it tumbles off the edge of the cliff, as viewed from the Upper Falls Overlook.