Maxwell Falls (Mini-Version) - ~ 0.5 Miles, Easy

Maxwell Falls (Mini Version)

Type … Hike

Highlights … Views, Forest, Creek, Waterfall

Seasons … Late Spring to Fall

Difficulty with Kids … Easy if you do the mini-version

Trail Details … ~0.5 Miles, Out and Back - Upper trailhead to Falls (AllTrails)

Closest Town … Evergreen

Shade … Plenty

Parking Situation … Limited, best to go early

Potty Situation … No potty

Maxwell Falls is a staple for us here in Evergreen - it’s definitely one of the more popular trails for Denver folks as well given the proximity. I usually try to limit crowded places with the kiddos, but if you can muster an early wake-up and get here in the am (or on a weekday), there’s really nothing like it close to home.

I’m calling this the mini-version of Maxwell Falls because we have a go-to shortcut to get to the creek + falls quickly, if you’re short on time or attention span. With kids in tow, I’m almost always down for getting to the main attracting as fast as possible! I’ve included a map below to show our route.

We also love to hit this late spring when the snow is gone and the creek/falls are ripping from spring runoff. It makes it wet out there, so be prepared, but an absolute blast for little ones. Plus, the fairy forest vibes are so high on this one with all the greenery, trees, and moss.

TRAIL TIPS

Creek fun. If you can make it out of this trail without the kids getting wet, you’re a superhuman. Definitely pack at least a change of socks if not a whole dry outfit for after!
The Falls. My kids are 7 and 10 and this is the first year I’ve felt comfortable with them scaling down the rocks to get down to the actual falls. There are a few routes to take to get down there, but you’ll want to be careful attempting this with little ones. There is a great viewpoint if you don’t want to make this trek!
Mini-Version. See map below if you want the shortcut!

MAKE A DAY OF IT

Evergreen Lake. If you’re coming from i70, you’ll likely pass by Evergreen Lake on the way to the trailhead. This makes a great pitstop for some paddleboarding after if in the summertime!
Downtown Evergreen. Hit up one of the many cute shops, restaurants, and coffee spots downtown - local favorites are Revival Brews, Muddy Buck, and Murphy’s.

To make this trail “mini”, start at the Upper Maxwell Falls trailhead and when you get to the start of the loop where you can go left or right, hang a right. You’ll be right alongside the creek and will hit the waterfall within a 1/4 mile. Come back the way you came for a quick adventure!