Trip
Intermediate Snowshoe – Ouzel Falls
We'll snowshoe or microspike (depending upon the conditions) from the RMNP Wild Basin winter parking lot to Copeland Falls, Calypso cascades, and Ouzel Falls. The trail features the subtle beauty of a frozen stream with snow-covered ice sculptures and winter views of Longs and Meeker.
Contacts
- Fri, Dec 27, 2024
- Bobcats Section
- Snowshoeing
- Adults
- Intermediate
- Moderate
- Mileage: 8.0 mi
- Elevation Gain: 1,200 ft
- High Point Elevation: 9,413 ft
- Pace: 13-1.8 MPH
- 6 (6 capacity)
- FULL (2 capacity)
- Cancellation & Refund Policy
Carpool Place & Time: Meet at US 36 & McCaslin Blvd PnR-South 7:15AM for a 7:30AM departure (US 36 and McCaslin Blvd Park and Ride - South - Google Maps)
We'll then carpool to RMNP Wild Basin Winter Parking lot (vehicle entrance fee) (RMNP Wild Basin Winter Trailhead - Google Maps)
Additional carpool meeting place could include location further north.
We'll hike a lollipop route. Our hike will begin at the Wild Basin Winter Parking Lot in RMNP, following the Wild Basin Road to the Wild Basin Trailhead. On the trail we'll pass Copeland Falls and Calypso Cascades on our way to Ouzel Falls. We'll find a sunny spot near Ouzel Falls to stop for lunch/snack. About 200 yards beyond Ouzel Falls is an overlook with a wonderful view of Longs Peak and Mount Meeker. From the overlook we'll continue along the Wild Basin Trail to the junction with the Thunder Lake Trail (aka North Saint Vrain Campsite Trail). We'll follow this trail, along the North Saint Vrain Creek until we meet the Wild Basin Trail and return to the trailhead and winter parking lot. Overall this hike is ~8 miles and ~1200 ft elevation gain. Our pace will be comfortable for all group members. Depending on the trail conditions will either snowshoe or hike using microspikes (please bring both and be prepared to carry your snowshoes on your backpack, we'll make the final decision at the trailhead). (Ouzel Falls - Snowshoe - CalTopo)
Required Equipment
Ten essentials, snowshoes and microspikes are required. Trekking poles are recommended.