Wild Basin: Rocky Mountain National Park's Hidden Gem
Discover Wild Basin: Hike to stunning waterfalls and alpine lakes in a less-crowded corner of Rocky Mountain National Park.
Escape the crowds and discover the rugged beauty of Wild Basin, a remote southeastern corner of Rocky Mountain National Park. Hike past cascading waterfalls, explore pristine alpine lakes, and immerse yourself in the tranquility of this less-traveled wilderness.
A brief summary to Wild Basin
- Colorado, US
Local tips
- Arrive early, especially during peak season, as the parking lot fills up quickly.
- Check the weather forecast before you go and be prepared for changing conditions, especially at higher elevations.
- Bring plenty of water and snacks, as there are no concessions available in the Wild Basin area.
- Wear sturdy hiking shoes, as the trails can be rocky and uneven.
Getting There
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Driving
From Estes Park, drive south on CO-7 for approximately 19 miles. Turn onto County Road 84 (Wild Basin Road) and follow the dirt road for 2 miles to the Wild Basin Trailhead. Note that the road can be narrow and bumpy in places. During the summer, parking lots often fill up before 8:00 am. A timed entry permit and park pass are required.
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Public Transport
From Denver, take the Bustang bus to the Rocky Mountain National Park Park & Ride in Estes Park. From there, transfer to the Hiker Shuttle, which requires reservations, to reach destinations within the park. Note that there is no shuttle service directly to Wild Basin. From the Park & Ride, you would need to find alternative transportation such as a taxi or rideshare to reach Wild Basin, which may be unreliable due to limited cell service. Bus fare from Denver to Rocky Mountain National Park is approximately $11-17.
Discover more about Wild Basin
Iconic landmarks you can’t miss
Kauffman House Museum
18.4 km
Explore the Kauffman House Museum in Grand Lake, Colorado, for an insightful journey through the region's history and captivating artifacts.
Kruger Rock Trail
19.4 km
Experience the breathtaking landscapes and diverse wildlife on Kruger Rock Trail in Estes Park, a must-visit destination for nature lovers and hikers.
Tour Estes Park
19.5 km
Explore the stunning natural beauty, outdoor adventures, and charming culture of Estes Park, your gateway to the Rocky Mountains.
Estes Park Aerial Tramway Top Terminal
19.7 km
Experience the breathtaking vistas of the Rockies with a ride on the Estes Park Aerial Tramway, a must-visit tourist attraction in Colorado.
Red Rose Rock Shop
20.1 km
Explore the Red Rose Rock Shop in Estes Park – a gem of natural wonders showcasing exquisite rocks, minerals, and unique souvenirs.
Open Air Adventure Park
20.2 km
Experience the thrill of outdoor adventures at Open Air Adventure Park, where excitement meets breathtaking natural beauty in Estes Park, Colorado.
Estes Park Brewery
20.3 km
Discover the flavors of Estes Park at Estes Park Brewery, where craft beer meets stunning mountain views and delicious pub fare.
Fun City
20.3 km
Discover endless fun for the whole family at Fun City, Estes Park's ultimate amusement park, featuring go-karts, miniature golf, and more!
Estes Park Aerial Tramway
20.4 km
Experience breathtaking views and adventure at Estes Park Aerial Tramway, a premier mountain cable car attraction in the heart of Colorado's Rockies.
Snowy Peaks Winery
20.5 km
Experience the perfect blend of exquisite local wines and breathtaking Rocky Mountain views at Snowy Peaks Winery in Estes Park, Colorado.
THE BARREL
20.6 km
Discover The Barrel in Estes Park: a delightful beer garden offering craft brews, cocktails, and stunning views of the Colorado mountains.
Estes Park Webcams
20.7 km
Discover the breathtaking views of Estes Park through live webcams, showcasing the beauty of the Rocky Mountains and local events in Colorado.
Mrs. Walsh's Garden
20.7 km
Discover the tranquil beauty of Mrs. Walsh's Garden in Estes Park, a serene retreat filled with vibrant flora and enchanting sculptures.
Yellow Wood Guiding: Estes Park Tours | Wildlife, Nature, and Photography
20.8 km
Discover the breathtaking beauty of Estes Park with expert-led wildlife tours and photography experiences at Yellow Wood Guiding.
The Water Wheel
20.8 km
Discover the enchanting Water Wheel in Estes Park, a serene landmark that beautifully combines nature, history, and family fun.
Unmissable attractions to see
Ouzel Falls
1.0 km
Experience the breathtaking beauty of Ouzel Falls, a stunning waterfall in Colorado's wilderness, perfect for nature lovers and adventure seekers.
Calypso Cascades
2.0 km
Discover the enchanting beauty of Calypso Cascades, Colorado's serene waterfall retreat, perfect for nature lovers and adventure seekers.
Copeland Falls
3.7 km
Experience the breathtaking beauty of Copeland Falls, a serene waterfall nestled in the heart of Colorado's Rocky Mountain National Park.
Wild Basin Trailhead
3.9 km
Explore the breathtaking trails of Wild Basin Trailhead in Allenspark, Colorado, where stunning views and natural beauty await every adventurer.
Chasm View
6.2 km
Discover the breathtaking cliffs and panoramic vistas of Chasm View, a must-visit destination for nature lovers in Colorado.
Chasm Junction
7.3 km
Explore Chasm Junction: A breathtaking hiking area in Rocky Mountain National Park, ideal for adventurers and nature lovers seeking stunning views and unforgettable experiences.
Keyhole Route
7.7 km
Experience the breathtaking landscapes of Keyhole Route in Colorado - a scenic trail perfect for all types of hikers and nature lovers.
Saint Catherine's Chapel on the Rock
8.2 km
Experience the tranquil beauty of Saint Catherine's Chapel on the Rock amidst the stunning Colorado Rockies, a perfect blend of nature and spirituality.
Longs Peak Trailhead
9.1 km
Explore the breathtaking Longs Peak Trailhead, your gateway to adventure in the stunning Rocky Mountain National Park. Experience nature's beauty and challenge yourself.
Lake Of Glass
10.0 km
Experience the breathtaking beauty and tranquility of Lake of Glass in Rocky Mountain National Park, a must-visit destination for nature lovers.
Enos Mills Cabin
10.9 km
Experience Enos Mills Cabin, a historic site in Estes Park, showcasing the life of a conservation pioneer amidst Colorado's stunning landscapes.
Lake Haiyaha To Mills/Loch Jct Trl
11.6 km
Explore the scenic Lake Haiyaha to Mills/Loch Junction Trail in Rocky Mountain National Park, a must-visit for nature lovers and adventure seekers alike.
Alberta Falls
11.6 km
Explore the breathtaking Alberta Falls in Rocky Mountain National Park - a must-visit natural wonder for every traveler in Estes Park, Colorado.
Lake Haiyaha
12.1 km
Discover the breathtaking beauty and tranquility of Lake Haiyaha in Rocky Mountain National Park, a hidden gem for nature lovers and adventure seekers alike.
Glacier Gorge Junction Trailhead
12.4 km
Explore the breathtaking trails of Glacier Gorge Junction Trailhead in Rocky Mountain National Park for an unforgettable hiking experience amidst stunning natural beauty.
Essential places to dine
Twin Owls Steakhouse
16.1 km
Experience exceptional steaks and American cuisine at Twin Owls Steakhouse in Estes Park – where quality meets stunning mountain views.
The Rock Inn Mountain Tavern
18.5 km
Experience the best of American cuisine and craft brews at The Rock Inn Mountain Tavern in Estes Park – your cozy retreat after exploring nature's wonders.
Bird & Jim
19.0 km
Discover Bird & Jim: An exceptional dining experience featuring local American cuisine and stunning views in Estes Park.
Boss Burgers and Gyros
19.2 km
Indulge in mouth-watering burgers and authentic gyros at Boss Burgers and Gyros – your go-to spot in scenic Estes Park.
Smokin' Dave's BBQ - ESTES PARK
19.3 km
Experience mouthwatering barbecue at Smokin' Dave's BBQ in Estes Park - where smoky flavors meet stunning mountain views.
Coffee on the Rocks
20.0 km
Discover Coffee on the Rocks in Estes Park – where quality brews meet breathtaking mountain views for an unforgettable experience.
Rivers Edge BBQ
20.2 km
Experience mouthwatering barbecue at Rivers Edge BBQ in Estes Park – where flavor meets nature's beauty.
The View Restaurant
20.2 km
Discover exquisite American cuisine amidst breathtaking mountain views at The View Restaurant in Estes Park.
Mother's Cafe
20.3 km
Discover comfort food at Mother's Cafe in Estes Park - where every dish feels like home amidst stunning mountain views.
Sweet Basilico Cafe
20.3 km
Discover authentic Italian flavors amidst stunning mountain views at Sweet Basilico Cafe in Estes Park.
CAFE DE PHO THAI
20.7 km
Experience authentic Vietnamese and Thai flavors at Café de Pho Thai in Estes Park – where culinary delight meets scenic beauty.
MollyB Restaurant
20.7 km
Experience delightful American cuisine at MollyB Restaurant in Estes Park - where great food meets stunning mountain views.
Big Horn Restaurant
20.7 km
Experience family-friendly dining at Big Horn Restaurant in Estes Park with delicious American cuisine perfect for all tastes and budgets.
Chester`s Philly
20.7 km
Discover Chester's Philly in Estes Park - where delicious steaks meet mouthwatering sandwiches in a cozy atmosphere.
The Grubsteak Restaurant
20.7 km
Discover The Grubsteak Restaurant in Estes Park – where exceptional steaks meet warm hospitality amidst stunning mountain views.
Markets, malls and hidden boutiques
The Mad Moose
19.0 km
Explore The Mad Moose for top outdoor gear and unique souvenirs in Estes Park, the gateway to Rocky Mountain National Park.
The Village Store of Estes Park
19.0 km
Discover the charm of The Village Store in Estes Park, a perfect blend of clothing, gifts, and souvenirs for every traveler.
Wild Horse Gift Shop
19.3 km
Explore the Wild Horse Gift Shop for unique souvenirs and local crafts in the heart of Estes Park, Colorado.
The Trading Post of the Rockies
20.1 km
Explore a treasure trove of unique souvenirs and local crafts at The Trading Post of the Rockies in scenic Estes Park.
Annie's
20.7 km
Discover unique gifts and local crafts at Annie's, a charming gift shop in Estes Park, CO, surrounded by the stunning beauty of the Rockies.
Lizzie's Boutique
20.7 km
Explore Lizzie's Boutique in Estes Park for unique gifts and local treasures that capture the essence of Colorado's natural beauty.
Wonderful Things
20.7 km
Explore Wonderful Things in Estes Park, where unique gifts and local treasures await every visitor in a charming mountain atmosphere.
Estes Park 5 & 10
20.7 km
Explore Estes Park 5 & 10 for a delightful selection of unique souvenirs and gifts that capture the spirit of Colorado's majestic mountains.
Favorite Things
20.8 km
Explore Favorite Things in Estes Park for unique gifts, local art, and memorable souvenirs that capture the essence of Colorado.
The Whispering Wood
20.8 km
Discover unique handcrafted souvenirs that capture the spirit of Estes Park at The Whispering Wood, your go-to store for local treasures.
Over The Edge
20.8 km
Discover unique gifts and local treasures in Estes Park at Over The Edge, where Colorado's spirit comes alive through stunning artisan creations.
CABINtique
20.8 km
Explore CABINtique in Estes Park for unique antiques, vintage furniture, and charming home goods that tell a story.
Rocky Mountain Souvenirs
20.8 km
Discover unique gifts and apparel that embody the spirit of the Rockies at Rocky Mountain Souvenirs in Estes Park.
Omnibus
20.8 km
Explore Omnibus in Estes Park, where exquisite handcrafted jewelry meets local artistry and charm.
Estes Park Souvenirs
20.8 km
Discover an array of unique gifts and local crafts at Estes Park Souvenirs, capturing the essence of Colorado's charm and beauty.
Essential bars & hidden hideouts
Rock Cut Brewing Company
20.4 km
Discover the heart of craft beer culture at Rock Cut Brewing Company, a premier brewery in Estes Park, Colorado, offering stunning views and delicious brews.
Full Throttle Distillery & Grill Estes Park
20.6 km
Discover the flavors of Colorado at Full Throttle Distillery & Grill, where hearty meals and local spirits unite in a vibrant atmosphere.
The Bull Pin - Elevated Entertainment
20.7 km
Experience fun and excitement at The Bull Pin in Estes Park, featuring bowling, billiards, and arcade games for all ages.
Lumpy Ridge Brewing Co.
20.7 km
Experience the best of Colorado's craft brewery scene at Lumpy Ridge Brewing Co., where unique flavors and stunning mountain views await.
Lonigans Saloon Nightclub & Grill, An Irish Pub
20.8 km
Discover the vibrant atmosphere of Lonigans Saloon Nightclub & Grill, a perfect blend of Irish pub charm and delightful grill cuisine in Estes Park.
Wheel Bar
20.9 km
Discover the lively atmosphere and innovative cocktails at The Wheel Bar, Estes Park's favorite cocktail destination for locals and tourists alike.
Avant Garde Aleworks
21.0 km
Discover the essence of craft brewing at Avant Garde Aleworks, where exceptional beers meet stunning mountain views in Estes Park, Colorado.
The Whiskey Bar At The Cascades Restaurant
21.7 km
Discover the elegance of The Whiskey Bar At The Cascades in Estes Park, where fine whiskeys and stunning mountain views meet in perfect harmony.
217 Wine Bar
21.7 km
Discover the best selection of fine wines at 217 Wine Bar in Estes Park, where scenic views meet exquisite flavors for a perfect evening.
Pits & Stems
33.7 km
Discover the vibrant atmosphere of Pits & Stems, Boulder’s premier cocktail bar known for its innovative drinks and welcoming ambiance.
Randi's Grill & Pub
34.3 km
Experience authentic Irish cuisine and warm hospitality at Randi's Grill & Pub in Winter Park, a cozy getaway for food lovers and adventure seekers.
Gravity Haus Winter Park
34.7 km
Experience the perfect blend of luxury and adventure at Gravity Haus Winter Park, your gateway to the Rocky Mountains.
The Bitter Bar
34.7 km
Discover The Bitter Bar, Boulder’s premier cocktail destination, offering unique drinks and a vibrant ambiance for a perfect night out.
West End Tavern
34.7 km
Discover the West End Tavern in Boulder, Colorado – a lively bar with stunning rooftop views, delicious food, and a vibrant atmosphere perfect for unwinding.
Press Play Bar LP
34.7 km
Discover the joy of retro gaming and craft beverages at Press Play Bar in Boulder, where every visit promises fun and unforgettable memories.
