Wild Basin Trailhead: Gateway to Rocky Mountain National Park's Wild Side

Wild Basin Trailhead, nestled near Allenspark, Colorado, serves as a portal to the southeastern corner of Rocky Mountain National Park, offering a more secluded and serene experience compared to the park's more frequented areas. This trailhead is the jumping-off point for numerous trails that wind through the Wild Basin, a region celebrated for its lush forests, cascading waterfalls, and shimmering alpine lakes. The trails from Wild Basin Trailhead cater to a range of hiking abilities, from moderate day hikes to more challenging backpacking trips. Popular destinations include the picturesque Copeland Falls, the stunning Calypso Cascades, and the majestic Ouzel Falls, each offering unique perspectives on the area's natural beauty. For those seeking a longer trek, trails extend to serene alpine lakes such as Bluebird Lake, Thunder Lake, Finch Lake and Pear Lake. Wild Basin is named after the American dipper, a bird species called Cinclus mexicanus, also known as an Ouzel. Both Ouzel Falls and Ouzel Lake are named in honor of this bird. Visitors should note that the road leading to the trailhead becomes a narrow, unpaved road for the last stretch, making it unsuitable for RVs. Parking is available at the trailhead, but it tends to fill up quickly, especially on weekends and during peak season, so arriving early is highly recommended.