Wild Basin, Rocky Mountain National Park

Wild Basin is Rocky Mountain National Park’s southeast corner, in Boulder County. From the 8,500-foot trailhead, a forest trail follows North St. Vrain Creek past Copeland Falls (0.3 miles), Calypso Cascades (1.8) and Ouzel Falls (2.7) to Ouzel Lake (4.9) and Bluebird Lake (6.3). Copeland Lake sits by the entrance, with Copeland Mountain beyond.

Wild Basin Road is two miles of narrow, often one-lane gravel, unsuitable for large vehicles, with limited parking. From about mid-October to Memorial Day weekend, vehicles stop at the winter parking area, about 0.8 miles short of the trailhead. Entrance fees apply, plus timed entry reservations at certain hours, late May to mid-October.

A 1932 log ranger station in National Park Service rustic style stands at the trailhead.

In most cases the National Park Service requires no permit or fee for filming or photography by eight or fewer people in areas open to the public, with hand-carried equipment only, no exclusive use, no adverse impact on park resources or other visitors, and no likely added administrative cost. Otherwise a permit applies, with location and cost-recovery fees. Drones are prohibited. Public Affairs Office: (970) 586-1363.