MacGregor Falls Trail

MacGregor Falls is a 6.4-mile out-and-back from Lumpy Ridge Trailhead, crossing open meadows before following forest paths to Black Canyon Creek and the waterfall. Allow about 3 to 4 hours for this moderate hike. The route includes a short informal connector near the ranch boundary; its present public alignment is unclear, so check with Rocky Mountain National Park before setting out. Do not cross land marked private.

From the trailhead, head west across the meadow. An older route description turns left toward The Pear at the first junction, then stays on the main trail at the next fork. The path enters pine forest and reaches a gate and fence-line connector. That turn is subtle, and the old directions may not match current signs. Follow current park guidance and stay on the public side of any fence.

The opening crosses former MacGregor Ranch meadows protected by a conservation easement. Longs Peak and the granite walls of Lumpy Ridge rise beyond the grass; climbers are often visible on the rock faces. Farther on, trees close around the trail as it approaches Black Canyon Creek.

The creekside path narrows toward several smaller cascades. MacGregor Falls is an angled sheet of water that strikes a granite wall and drops again; a smaller cascade just before it can look like the destination. The creek banks are steep and have been reported eroded, with old metal remnants near the water. Take in the falls from stable ground rather than scrambling across the creek for a closer view. From the safe bank, the slab against the granite wall makes the clearest frame.

The trailhead sits near 7,900 feet, and the falls are higher. Dogs are prohibited on Rocky Mountain National Park trails, including this route. Before hiking, confirm the ranch-gate connector with the park; an older account described No Trespassing signs on the ranch-side line and a fence-side route it said remained on public ground. Respect posted signs and turn back if the public route is not clear.