Ouzel Falls: A Rocky Mountain National Park Gem
Hike to the stunning Ouzel Falls in Rocky Mountain National Park, passing beautiful cascades and enjoying the Wild Basin's serene wilderness.
Ouzel Falls, located in the Wild Basin area of Rocky Mountain National Park, is a stunning 40-foot waterfall reached via a moderately challenging 5.4-mile hike. The trail takes you past other beautiful waterfalls, including Copeland Falls and Calypso Cascades, making it a rewarding experience for nature lovers.
A brief summary to Ouzel Falls
- Colorado, US
Local tips
- Arrive early at the Wild Basin Trailhead to secure parking, especially on weekends and holidays.
- Wear sturdy hiking boots as the trail can be rocky and slippery, particularly near the waterfalls.
- Bring water and snacks, as there are no facilities along the trail.
- Check the weather forecast before heading out and be prepared for changing conditions.
Getting There
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Driving
To reach Ouzel Falls, start by driving to the Wild Basin Trailhead, located in the southeastern corner of Rocky Mountain National Park. From Estes Park, drive 12.6 miles south on Colorado Highway 7, then turn right onto County Road 84W. Continue on County Road 84W until you reach the Wild Basin Trailhead. Note that a timed-entry permit may be required to enter Rocky Mountain National Park between May and October. These permits can be reserved through Recreation.gov. Additionally, all visitors need to pay a fee to enter the park, unless they have a National Parks Pass. Current fee rates can be found on the RMNP website. Parking at the Wild Basin Trailhead is free with your park entry fee. However, the parking lot can fill up quickly, especially on weekends and holidays, so arriving early is recommended.
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Walking
From the Wild Basin Trailhead, the hike to Ouzel Falls is approximately 2.7 miles. Follow the well-maintained trail, which begins by following North St. Vrain Creek. The trail passes by Copeland Falls at around 0.3 miles, Calypso Cascades at 1.6 miles, and finally reaches Ouzel Falls at 2.7 miles. The hike is considered moderately challenging with an elevation gain of around 950 feet. Be sure to wear sturdy hiking boots and bring water and snacks.
Discover more about Ouzel Falls
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