by Ericka Kastner Stunning sand dunes views, classic Colorado wildflowers, creek wading, slot canyon exploration and an awe-inspiring waterfall. Surprisingly, the short hike to Zapata Falls has it all, and then some. The wide, quarter-mile long trail ascends gradually from 9,000 to 9,400 feet in elevation and takes only about 15 minutes to complete. There are benches at numerous points along the way, making the hike to South Zapata Creek manageable for even young children or flatlanders needing to catch a breath at altitude. The trail is dotted with blooming prickly pear cactus, bright coral skyrocket, purple asters and a ...