Sisters of the Trail: A Women-Only Hike to Ouzel Falls
A compact, empowering day-hike through Wild Basin to a 40-foot waterfall—built for women who want scenery and skills.
By the time the road narrows and the trees begin to close ranks, the Wild Basin has already started to write its own weather. Pines hunker close to the trail, their needles whispering overhead; a stream—cold, bright, and urgent—keeps pace like a companion who knows the route by heart. On a women-only hike to Ouzel Falls, that stream is both guide and tease, rapidly expanding into tumbling flats and curtains of water that dare you to slow down and take notice. The group moves at a conversational clip, packs balanced not just with snacks but with stories, and the mountain answers in splashes and bird calls.
Trail Wisdom
Start Early or Late
Parking at Wild Basin fills; arrive before 9 a.m. on summer weekends or plan for a later afternoon start to avoid crowds and midday storms.
Layer for Rapid Changes
Temperatures can swing with elevation and sun exposure—pack a lightweight insulating layer and a waterproof shell.
Treat Water Carefully
The stream is tempting but glacier-fed; carry a filter or purification tablets if you plan to refill.
Respect Wildlife Distances
Elk and moose frequent the basin—use binoculars and give animals wide berth, especially during rut and calving seasons.
Local Knowledge
Hidden Gems
- •Copeland Falls and Calypso Cascades—smaller, lesser-visited cascades along the same Wild Basin route
- •Quiet meadows above the trailhead where late-season wildflowers concentrate and views open toward the park interior
Wildlife
Elk, Pika
Conservation Note
The Wild Basin is a sensitive alpine watershed—stay on durable surfaces, pack out all waste, and avoid disturbing shoreline and meadow vegetation.
Rocky Mountain National Park was established in 1915; the Wild Basin area remains one of the park’s quieter, more intact watersheds.
Seasonal Guide
spring
Best for: Wildflower emergence, Fewer crowds
Challenges: Snow patches on higher approaches, Cold mornings
Spring brings melting snow and early wildflowers; trails can be wet and icy in shaded sections—microspikes may be needed early in the season.
summer
Best for: Stable trails, Full waterfall flow, Wildflowers
Challenges: Afternoon thunderstorms, Peak crowds
Summer is the most reliable time for open trails and strong flows, but expect thunderstorm windows and plan around midday heat.
fall
Best for: Autumn color, Cooler temperatures
Challenges: Shorter daylight, First snows possible
Fall colors make the basin glow; cooler temps add comfort but watch for sudden weather and earlier sunsets.
winter
Best for: Snowshoeing ambiance, Solitude
Challenges: Deep snow, Trailhead access closures
Winter access is difficult; only experienced winter travelers with snowshoes and navigation skills should attempt this route in snowy months.
Photographer's Notes
What to Bring
Sturdy hiking bootsEssential
Good ankle support and sticky soles help on rock steps and wet creek crossings.
Light rain shellEssential
Protects against sudden afternoon storms common in the Rockies.
Water filter or purification tablets
Useful if you plan to refill from the glacier-fed streams.
Insulating midlayerEssential
A warm, packable layer keeps you comfortable at higher, cooler sections of the trail.
Common Questions
How long is the hike to Ouzel Falls?
The guided itinerary covers about 5.4 miles round-trip with roughly 1,300 feet of elevation gain, typically taking around five hours including breaks.
Is this hike suitable for beginners?
It's moderate—good for hikers with basic fitness who are comfortable on varied terrain; the guided format is beginner-friendly with skill coaching.
Do I need a park pass or reservation?
Yes—an RMNP park pass is required, and during peak summer months there may be timed entry reservations or fees; check the park website before travel.
Are there any technical sections or scrambling?
No technical climbing is required; however, there are rocky steps and a few exposed sections where careful footing is needed.
What wildlife might we see?
Elk and mule deer are common; keep quiet and maintain distance—moose and black bears are possible, so guides will brief on safety protocols.
Can I bring my dog?
Pets are not allowed on most national park trails including many areas in RMNP—confirm current regulations before bringing animals.
What to Pack
Hydration (2–3L), layered insulation, waterproof shell, trail snacks—each accounts for variable weather, altitude, and energy needs.
Did You Know
Ouzel Falls drops about 40 feet and is fed by streams that originate in the park’s high alpine basins; Rocky Mountain National Park was created in 1915.
Quick Travel Tips
1) Buy your RMNP pass or timed entry online before arrival; 2) Expect limited cell service in Wild Basin; 3) Pack snacks with protein for steady energy on climbs; 4) Bring cash or card for Estes Park services—some small vendors may not accept remote payments.
Local Flavor
After the hike, head back to Estes Park for local craft beer and a hearty mountain meal—try a bison or elk burger and a brewery patio to decompress. The Stanley Hotel offers history buffs a chance for a short cultural detour.
Logistics Snapshot
Closest airport: Denver International (DEN) ~1.5–2 hours drive; Trailhead: Wild Basin Trailhead ~35–50 minutes from Estes Park depending on route; Cell service: intermittent to none in the basin; Permits/Passes: RMNP entrance pass required and potential timed-entry reservations in peak months.
Sustainability Note
The Wild Basin watershed is fragile—pack out all trash, avoid stepping on alpine vegetation, and follow Leave No Trace principles to protect water quality and wildlife habitat.