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Maxwell Falls can be reached via two trailheads: Upper Maxwell Falls Trailhead in Conifer and Lower Maxwell Falls Trailhead in Evergreen. The upper trailhead is located on Jefferson County Road 78 / Shadow Mountain Drive, and the hike is about two and a half miles roundtrip, while the lower trailhead is located on South Brook Forest Road and the hike is about three and a half miles out and back. The trail is well traveled and follows Maxwell Creek, with overlooks at about half a mile and two miles from the upper and lower trailheads, respectively. Enjoy the falls from the overlook, or seek out trails that lead down the bank for a closer look.

Pro Tips

  • The slopes above the falls are steep, loose, and slabby, depending on where you descend. Stay off dangerous terrain and find well-defined, switch-backed social trails to avoid erosion of the land and injury to yourself.
  • This is a popular trail with dog-walkers, but be sure to follow regulations and keep your pup on a leash.
  • The hike from the upper trailhead is short but you’ll lose elevation on the way in so save some energy for the hike up and out. If you start at the lower trailhead, be prepared for a fairly strenuous hike with a lot of ups and downs, amounting to nearly 1,000 feet of elevation gain roundtrip.

    • Recommended season(s): Year-round.

    —Susan Joy Paul

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