Finally A Hike up Rio Colorado to the Falls

We have been here for almost a year and have yet to hike one of the most popular hikes in the area, up the Rio Colorado to the falls. Last weekend, we decided to leave the girls (dogs) home and take the day and go for a hike. What a lovely surprise! It was a typical gorgeous, sunny day in Cafayate as we drove up to the Divisidero. We had attempted this hike twice before, once we stayed to the left, which was the wrong way, and the second time with the dogs who encountered goats within the first minutes which ended our trip pretty quickly! This time, we learned we had to stay to the right so we found this little trail hidden behind the bushes (no signs!), and started to climb. We hit it this time. We really had no idea what to expect and what we found was excellent. We followed a pretty fast running stream the entire way having to cross several times, at time up to our thighs in fast running water! Now, it's not for everyone but Charlie and I love a little danger and excitement in our hikes. On the way up, we encountered two girls about 12 year's old giving another couple a guided tour - or basically showing them the way. There are many little side trails and to know the best places to cross and the best hills to go up is a valid skill! Now these girls had no hesitaions what so ever, they jumped rocks through rapid water, they climbed and ran up the hills. Although, we didn't know who was leading, the little dog or the girls! As we made it to the top where the falls were, we enjoyed a nice refreshing water spray and a beautiful waterfall. Charlie and I headed down a different direction on the other side of the river which, we thought would be very similar to our way up, but again a nice surprise of 4 more gorgeous falls with some nice rock climbing mixed in. All in all, one of our best hikes, we were tired and ready for a big siesta by the time we made it back. Again, the hike was a bit more difficult and dangerous than we thought but then again, but I'm sure a guide can steer away from the major climbing areas! Check out http://www.cafayate.com/EnglishSceneryRioColorado.html for more fotos!