Ouzel Falls: A Rocky Mountain National Park Gem

Ouzel Falls is a highlight within the Wild Basin region of Rocky Mountain National Park, offering a classic Colorado hiking experience. The moderately challenging 5.4-mile roundtrip hike to the falls treats visitors to a diverse landscape of flowing creeks, subalpine forests, and stunning waterfalls. The adventure begins at the Wild Basin Trailhead, winding along the North St. Vrain Creek. Along the way, hikers encounter the picturesque Copeland Falls, a great spot to pause and enjoy the scenery. Continuing on, the trail leads to Calypso Cascades, a series of waterfalls cascading down the mountainside. The final stretch to Ouzel Falls involves a bit more elevation gain, but the sight of the 40-foot waterfall crashing through a rocky gorge is well worth the effort. The trail is generally well-maintained, but sturdy hiking boots are recommended due to rocky and potentially slippery sections, especially near the falls. The best time to hike to Ouzel Falls is between June and September when the trail is typically free of snow and wildflowers may be in bloom. Be prepared for changing weather conditions, as storms can develop rapidly in the mountains. While the Wild Basin area is generally less crowded than other parts of Rocky Mountain National Park, the parking lot at the trailhead can fill up quickly, especially on weekends and holidays. Arriving early is highly recommended.