Hike to Ouzel Falls

Hike to Ouzel Falls in Rocky Mountain National Park’s Wild Basin is a true Colorado classic. It’s a great hike for all skill levels, and you’re practically guaranteed to see at least one waterfall (spoiler alert: it’s likely to be more than one.). Planning your hike to Ouzel Falls doesn’t have to be overwhelming. Our guide to enjoying this iconic Rocky Mountain adventure hike to Ouzel Falls. This was the last last hike of a 3 day weekend of hiking different trails at Rocky Mountain National Park.

Planning your Hike to Ouzel Falls

The Ouzel Falls Trail is a moderately challenging 5.4-mile out-and-back trail that gains roughly 950 feet of elevation. You’ll want to wear sturdy hiking boots, as the trail can get rocky and slippery, especially near the falls. Be sure to bring water and snacks too, since there are no facilities along the trail itself. You should also dress in layers because the weather in Rocky Mountain National Park can change quickly, even in the summer. It’s a good idea to pack a rain jacket. You can check out the extended forecast for the area before you head out to get a sense of what conditions to expect.

When to go for your Hike to Ouzel Falls Hiking Wild Basin

The best time to hike to Ouzel Falls is from June through September. During these months, the trail is free of snow. Plus, wildflowers are usually blooming near the trail in July and August, making your hike even more spectacular. The Ouzel Falls trail is open year-round. You can also enjoy snowshoeing or hiking during the winter months.

Permits & Entrance Fees

You’ll need a timed-entry permit to enter Rocky Mountain National Park between May and October. This includes the Wild Basin area. Even though it’s less popular than other areas of the park like Bear Lake, don’t assume you’ll be able to drive in. To snag a permit, you’ll need to make a reservation through Recreation.gov. Permits can be hard to get, so plan ahead. See the RMNP permits page for more information. All visitors will also need to pay a fee to enter Rocky Mountain National Park unless you have a National Parks Pass. Current fee rates can be found on the RMNP website.

Getting to the Wild Basin Trailhead for Your Hike to Ouzel Falls

?The Wild Basin Trailhead, where the hike to Ouzel Falls begins, is in the southeastern corner of Rocky Mountain National Park, about a 1 hour and 45 minute drive from Denver.?

Driving Directions to the Wild Basin Trailhead:

1. From Denver, take US-36 West to Lyons.
2. In Lyons, turn left at the traffic light to stay on US-36 into downtown Lyons.
3. Just past downtown, turn left onto CO-7 and follow signs for Allenspark (about 21 miles).
4. Stay on CO-7 past Allenspark for about 2 more miles. You’ll see a sign for Wild Basin, signaling you to take a left onto Country Rd. 84.
5. Take the first right onto Country Rd. 115, and look for the entrance station to Wild Basin after you pass the Wild Basin Lodge.
6. You’ll find the Wild Basin Ranger Station, Rocky Mountain National Park, at County Highway 115, Allenspark, CO 80510. You can also click here for Google Map directions to the Wild Basin Ranger Station.

Parking at the Wild Basin Trailhead for your Hike to Ouzel Falls

Wild Basin is generally considered a quieter part of Rocky Mountain National Park. However, the parking lot at the trailhead can fill up, particularly on weekends and holidays. Aim to arrive early. This also means you’ll have cooler temperatures to enjoy as you hike. If the main lot is full, you may need to park further down the road and walk in. Parking is free with your Park entry fee. There is a restroom located at the trailhead. However, no drinking water is available at the Wild Basin Trailhead. Consider filling up your water bottles in the town of Allenspark.

Winter Parking at the Wild Basin Trailhead

Between October and May, heavy snow and ice create dangerous road conditions on Highway 115. The road closes roughly 2.5 miles from the Wild Basin Trailhead due to these conditions. This will add significant distance to your hike to Ouzel Falls. You’ll be hiking from the winter parking lot instead of the trailhead. You might snag a closer parking spot. Other smaller parking areas, like the Finch Lake Trailhead, that are closer to the Wild Basin Trailhead, might still be accessible. It’s worth checking road conditions before you set out for your hike. You can stay up to date on the latest road conditions on the national park website. Learn more: https://getlostinamerica.com/hike-to-ouzel-falls/