About Lower Disaster Falls
Lower Disaster Falls is a named waterfall in Moffat County, Colorado, located about 39 miles north of Rangely. The U.S. Geological Survey records it on the Canyon of Lodore North 7.5-minute topographic quadrangle at 40°38′38″ N, 108°55′58″ W (40.64385, -108.93290). Historical sources also record the name Disaster Falls. Named features close by in the federal gazetteer include Zenobia Creek (stream, 0.6 mi), Black Ridge (ridge, 0.9 mi), and Pot Creek (stream, 0.9 mi). The nearest other waterfall in this directory is Upper Disaster Falls, 0.4 miles to the north.
Weather at Lower Disaster Falls
Full NWS forecastForecast for the waterfall's exact location, not the nearest town. Mountain weather can change quickly.
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Source: National Weather Service.
Conditions at Lower Disaster Falls
Sun and Daylight Today
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Times in Denver time. Canyons and steep valleys lose direct sun earlier.
Elevation
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At the mapped waterfall point, from the USGS 3D Elevation Program. Expect cooler temperatures than in nearby towns at lower elevation.
Nearest Stream Gauge
Checking for USGS gauges within about 8 miles...
Live discharge in cubic feet per second (ft³/s). The gauge may be on a different stream than the falls; use the trend as a rough guide to how much water is running in the area.
Map and Directions
The marker shows the USGS-recorded position of Lower Disaster Falls. Trailheads and parking can be some distance from the falls themselves, so plan your route with an up-to-date trail map.
Named Landmarks Nearby
These named features from the USGS Geographic Names Information System lie within two miles of Lower Disaster Falls. Stream positions mark the stream's mouth as recorded by USGS.
- Zenobia Creek — stream, 0.6 mi
- Black Ridge — ridge, 0.9 mi
- Pot Creek — stream, 0.9 mi
- Ecklund Draw — valley, 1.7 mi
Before You Visit
- Water levels change quickly. Flow is usually strongest after rain and during snowmelt; see the best time to visit waterfalls.
- Stay back from the brink and off wet rock. Our waterfall safety guide covers the most common hazards.
- Check land ownership and access before you go. Some named falls sit on private property or in areas without a maintained trail.
- Download offline maps and save the coordinates 40.64385, -108.93290. Use our waterfall hike packing list.
Waterfalls Near Lower Disaster Falls
Frequently Asked Questions
Where is Lower Disaster Falls located?
Lower Disaster Falls is in Moffat County, Colorado, about 39 miles north of Rangely. Its coordinates are 40.64385, -108.93290 (40°38′38″ N, 108°55′58″ W).
What town is closest to Lower Disaster Falls?
The closest town with 1,000 or more residents is Rangely, CO, about 39 miles away in a straight line. Driving distance is usually longer, so check the route before you go.
What waterfalls are near Lower Disaster Falls?
The closest is Upper Disaster Falls (0.4 mi north). Others within reach include Triplet Falls (2.8 mi) and Ashley Falls (35 mi).
Which USGS topographic map shows Lower Disaster Falls?
Lower Disaster Falls appears on the USGS Canyon of Lodore North 7.5-minute quadrangle. You can view it in The National Map viewer or download the US Topo sheet for offline navigation.