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Best Hiking Spots
- by hoots
- -
- August 26, 2008
(3)
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Rocky Mountain National Park - Ouzel Falls
Ouzel Falls - Day Hike
Ouzel Falls is a great day hike (about 6 miles round trip) for families with kids ages 5 and up. The hiking is relatively easy and follows the North Saint Vrain Creek Drainage along the Thunder Lake trail in the southern area of Rocky Mountain National Park. As it follows the river, there is the constant sound of rushing water and several scenic waterfalls. Though the hike is progressively upward, it is not overly difficult. However, more than just a waterbottle may be required to stay hydrated and bug spray is definitely a must.
First Marker - Copeland Falls
You’ll see 3 different waterfalls along this hike. This first is Copeland falls as you cross a wide bridge.
Down stream from Copeland Falls, crossing the bridge.
Ouzel Falls
It’s easy to almost miss this! After the cascades, you’ll come to a narrow bridge, and if you look back you will see water cascading down off a ledge. If you look to the left you’ll see a very narrow trail which actually leads back to the falls. It’s only about 30 yards back and well worth the extra few feet. You can get close enough to feel the spray on your face! If the sun is right, will make for a great family picture. There is an outcropping of rocks where the trail ends which is great for a picnic if you make it this far.
Glimpse of Ouzel Falls from the bridge – almost there!
Rocks in the river – before Copeland Falls.
2nd Marker - Cascade Falls
1.8 miles into the hike you’ll come to Cascade Falls. There are a series of narrow bridges which cross the cascades. If the kiddos are tired and you want to do about a four mile round trip, this is a good place to stop. Lots of trees and areas off to the side of the trail to have a little picnic and enjoy the scenery.
Part of Cascade Falls
Ouzel Falls
Directions
The Wild Basin Trailhead is on the east side of the Continental Divide between Meeker Park and Allenspark. Turn west on to Wild Basin Road from Colorado Highway 7, at a junction about 13 miles south of Estes Park. Continue west to the Copeland Lake area, roughly one-half mile from Highway 7. The Wild Basin trailhead is about 2 miles beyond Copeland Lake on a narrow gravel road. The trailhead begins on the south end of the parking area at the Wild Basin Ranger Station. Access to this parking
area may be limited during seasons when snowfall is still present.
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.jpg "rhy")
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OMG – i love ouzel falls!
.jpg "Chelsea")
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I’m definitely going to use this guide, hiking is one of my favorite things I go almost every weekend but it would be nice to check out a new spot!!! or two!
.png "Hoots")
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Yep, sure did.
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