Western Wanderlust Chronicles

I love this hike—it has everything! From woods to water to views, and of course, a beautiful waterfall at the end. There’s something so refreshing about making my way through the quiet forest, following the sound of rushing water, and finally reaching Ouzel Falls in all its springtime glory. I was happy to get out before the weather moved in, and as I was leaving, I was lucky enough to spot a young bull moose and his mom—a perfect way to wrap up the day!

Trail Details

• Ouzel Falls is located in Wild Basin, RMNP
• Roundtrip Distance: 5.4 miles
• Elevation Gain: 870 feet
• Current Conditions: The road is only open to the winter trailhead parking lot, adding an extra mile each way, making the total hike 7.4 miles roundtrip. The road itself is fairly flat and easy to walk, but the added distance might be too much for some. Once the road fully opens, this hike will be more accessible.

A Frozen Wonderland on the Trail

The hike begins at the Wild Basin Trailhead, leading through dense pine forests and along North St. Vrain Creek. The first half of the trail was packed down enough that I only needed microspikes for traction, but about halfway to the falls, the snow became deeper, and I switched to snowshoes for better stability.

One of the highlights was passing Copeland Falls—where the creek was rushing with spring runoff, creating a powerful contrast between the dark flowing water and the patches of snow still clinging to the rocks. The combination of flowing water, fresh snow, and towering evergreens made every step along the trail feel like a scene from a winter postcard.

Ouzel Falls – A Springtime Spectacle

The final destination, Ouzel Falls, was absolutely worth the effort. Despite the lingering snow, the falls were flowing strongly, crashing down the rock face with incredible force. The mix of frozen formations and rushing water made for a dramatic scene, especially in contrast to the blue sky breaking through the trees.

Snow still clung to the banks of the creek, adding a stark contrast between winter’s last grip and the signs of spring emerging. The sound of the water echoed through the trees, a reminder of how powerful and dynamic these mountain landscapes are.

Spring Hiking Tips for Ouzel Falls

If you’re considering a spring hike to Ouzel Falls, here are a few tips:

• Wear microspikes and bring snowshoes – Microspikes were enough for the first half, but snowshoes were necessary for the deeper snow closer to the falls.
• Plan for the extra mileage – Until the road fully opens, be prepared for a 7.4-mile roundtrip hike.
• Start early – Snow conditions are better in the morning before the sun softens the trail.
• Dress in layers – Spring temperatures fluctuate, and you’ll warm up quickly as you climb in elevation.
• Check trail conditions – Always check Rocky Mountain National Park updates before heading out.

Final Thoughts

A spring hike to Ouzel Falls is an unforgettable experience. Whether you’re trekking through fresh snow, admiring the many waterfalls along the way, or witnessing the falls in their full, rushing glory, it’s a hike that truly has it all. And if you’re lucky, you might even spot some wildlife, like the moose I saw on my way out.

Would you ever consider a snowy spring hike to Ouzel Falls? Let me know in the comments!