Calypso Cascades: A Wild Basin Jewel
Hike to the stunning Calypso Cascades in Rocky Mountain National Park's Wild Basin and discover a serene waterfall surrounded by natural beauty.
Calypso Cascades, nestled in Rocky Mountain National Park's Wild Basin, is a stunning 200-foot waterfall named for the rare Calypso Orchids that bloom nearby in late spring and early summer. The moderate 3.6-mile hike to the cascades offers a beautiful journey through forests and along the North St. Vrain Creek.
A brief summary to Calypso Cascades
- Colorado, US
Local tips
- Arrive early at the Wild Basin Trailhead, as the parking lot tends to fill up quickly, especially on weekends.
- Check the weather forecast before heading out, as afternoon thunderstorms are common in the summer months.
- Bring plenty of water and snacks, as the hike is moderately strenuous.
- Wear sturdy hiking shoes, as the trail can be rocky and uneven.
- Be aware of wildlife, including black bears, and take necessary precautions.
Getting There
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Driving
From Estes Park, drive south on Highway 7 for approximately 12.6 miles. Turn right onto Wild Basin Road and continue for 0.4 miles, then turn right again into the park. Follow the narrow gravel road for about 2.2 miles to reach the Wild Basin Trailhead. A daily entrance fee of $30 is required to enter Rocky Mountain National Park. Annual passes are also available.
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Parking
Parking is available at the Wild Basin Trailhead. However, the parking lot can fill up quickly, especially during peak season. Arrive early to secure a spot. If the main lot is full, there may be limited parking available along the road leading to the trailhead. In winter, the road may not be plowed all the way to the trailhead, requiring parking at a winter lot and adding 3 miles each way to the hike.
Discover more about Calypso Cascades
Iconic landmarks you can’t miss
Tour Estes Park
19.8 km
Explore the stunning natural beauty, outdoor adventures, and charming culture of Estes Park, your gateway to the Rocky Mountains.
Grand Lake
19.8 km
Explore the breathtaking beauty of Grand Lake, Colorado - a perfect blend of adventure and tranquility in the heart of the Rockies.
Estes Park Aerial Tramway Top Terminal
19.9 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
20.3 km
Explore the Red Rose Rock Shop in Estes Park – a gem of natural wonders showcasing exquisite rocks, minerals, and unique souvenirs.
Kauffman House Museum
20.3 km
Explore the Kauffman House Museum in Grand Lake, Colorado, for an insightful journey through the region's history and captivating artifacts.
Open Air Adventure Park
20.4 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
20.5 km
Discover the flavors of Estes Park at Estes Park Brewery, where craft beer meets stunning mountain views and delicious pub fare.
Fun City
20.5 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
20.5 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
20.7 km
Experience the perfect blend of exquisite local wines and breathtaking Rocky Mountain views at Snowy Peaks Winery in Estes Park, Colorado.
THE BARREL
20.8 km
Discover The Barrel in Estes Park: a delightful beer garden offering craft brews, cocktails, and stunning views of the Colorado mountains.
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.
Estes Park Webcams
20.9 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
20.9 km
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Historic Park Theatre
21.0 km
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Unmissable attractions to see
Ouzel Falls
1.0 km
Discover the beauty of Rocky Mountain National Park on the trail to Ouzel Falls, a 5.4-mile hike through Wild Basin's stunning waterfalls.
Wild Basin
2.0 km
Discover Wild Basin: Hike to stunning waterfalls and alpine lakes in a less-crowded corner of Rocky Mountain National Park.
Copeland Falls
2.3 km
Discover the serene beauty of Copeland Falls, an easily accessible waterfall hike in Rocky Mountain National Park's Wild Basin.
Wild Basin Trailhead
2.5 km
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Chasm View
7.4 km
Experience breathtaking views from Chasm View in Rocky Mountain National Park, where nature's grandeur unfolds before your eyes.
Saint Catherine's Chapel on the Rock
7.5 km
Discover the serene beauty and rich history of this iconic chapel nestled in the heart of the Colorado Rockies, a must-see landmark near Estes Park.
Chasm Junction
7.9 km
A pivotal trail junction on the way to Longs Peak and Chasm Lake, offering access to stunning alpine scenery and challenging climbs in Rocky Mountain National Park.
Keyhole Route
8.6 km
Experience the thrill of summiting Longs Peak via the iconic Keyhole Route, a challenging mountaineering adventure in Rocky Mountain National Park.
Longs Peak Trailhead
9.1 km
Embark on an unforgettable adventure from the base of Longs Peak, where challenging trails meet breathtaking alpine scenery in Rocky Mountain National Park.
Enos Mills Cabin
10.7 km
Explore the legacy of Enos Mills, the 'Father of Rocky Mountain National Park,' at his historic 1885 cabin in Estes Park, Colorado.
Lake Of Glass
11.6 km
Hike to Lake of Glass in Rocky Mountain National Park for stunning reflections and breathtaking mountain views.
Twin Sisters Peaks
12.2 km
Hike to the summit of Twin Sisters Peaks for panoramic views of Rocky Mountain National Park and the Front Range.
Alberta Falls
12.8 km
Hike to a stunning 30-foot waterfall through beautiful forests in Rocky Mountain National Park. An easy and accessible natural wonder near Estes Park.
Lake Haiyaha To Mills/Loch Jct Trl
13.0 km
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Lily Lake
13.3 km
Discover serene beauty and accessible trails at Lily Lake, a scenic escape near Estes Park with stunning mountain views and abundant wildlife.
Essential places to dine
Twin Owls Steakhouse
16.2 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
18.9 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
19.3 km
Discover Bird & Jim: An exceptional dining experience featuring local American cuisine and stunning views in Estes Park.
Boss Burgers and Gyros
19.5 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
19.5 km
Experience mouthwatering barbecue at Smokin' Dave's BBQ in Estes Park - where smoky flavors meet stunning mountain views.
Mother's Cafe
20.2 km
Discover comfort food at Mother's Cafe in Estes Park - where every dish feels like home amidst stunning mountain views.
Coffee on the Rocks
20.2 km
Discover Coffee on the Rocks in Estes Park – where quality brews meet breathtaking mountain views for an unforgettable experience.
Rivers Edge BBQ
20.4 km
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The View Restaurant
20.4 km
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Sweet Basilico Cafe
20.5 km
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CAFE DE PHO THAI
20.8 km
Experience authentic Vietnamese and Thai flavors at Café de Pho Thai in Estes Park – where culinary delight meets scenic beauty.
MollyB Restaurant
20.9 km
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Chester`s Philly
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Big Horn Restaurant
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The Grubsteak Restaurant
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Markets, malls and hidden boutiques
The Mad Moose
19.3 km
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The Village Store of Estes Park
19.3 km
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Wild Horse Gift Shop
19.6 km
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The Trading Post of the Rockies
20.3 km
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CABINtique
20.8 km
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Annie's
20.8 km
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Wonderful Things
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Estes Park 5 & 10
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Lizzie's Boutique
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Favorite Things
21.0 km
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The Whispering Wood
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Over The Edge
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Estes Park Souvenirs
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Rocky Mountain Souvenirs
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Omnibus
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Essential bars & hidden hideouts
Rock Cut Brewing Company
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The Bull Pin - Elevated Entertainment
20.7 km
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Lumpy Ridge Brewing Co.
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Full Throttle Distillery & Grill Estes Park
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Lonigans Saloon Nightclub & Grill, An Irish Pub
21.0 km
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Wheel Bar
21.0 km
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Avant Garde Aleworks
21.1 km
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The Whiskey Bar At The Cascades Restaurant
21.8 km
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217 Wine Bar
21.8 km
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Pits & Stems
31.7 km
Discover the vibrant atmosphere of Pits & Stems, Boulder’s premier cocktail bar known for its innovative drinks and welcoming ambiance.
The Bitter Bar
32.7 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
32.7 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
32.7 km
Discover the joy of retro gaming and craft beverages at Press Play Bar in Boulder, where every visit promises fun and unforgettable memories.
License No. 1
32.8 km
Discover the heart of Boulder's nightlife at License No. 1, where live music meets delicious dining in a vibrant atmosphere.
The Corner Bar
32.8 km
Experience the vibrant atmosphere and delicious grilled dishes at The Corner Bar in Boulder, a perfect stop for food lovers and socializers alike.
