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Calypso Cascades in Rocky Mountain National Park

Calypso Cascades is an easy 3.6 mile hike to one of several waterfall destinations along this section of trail. This waterfall in the Wild Basin of Rocky Mountain National Park is gets its name from the purple Calypso Orchids that bloom along the banks of Cony Creek. Explore the full Calypso Cascades hike profile below for trail map, driving directions, and more tips and details to help you enjoy this adventure in Rocky Mountain National Park.

Note: Rocky Mountain National Park now requires timed entry permits from May 27th through October 10th. See the RMNP permits page for more information.

Trail Snapshot: Calypso Cascades in Rocky Mountain National Park

Parking & Trailhead Information for Calypso Cascades

The southeast corner of Rocky Mountain National Park boasts one of the loveliest portions in the park known as the Wild Basin. The Wild Basin Trailhead is located just 15 minutes outside of Allenspark, Colorado along Highway 115. There is a ranger station at at the Wild Basin Trailhead with toilets and drinking water available.

In the winter (October-May), Hwy 115 may not be plowed to the trailhead, and hikers will need to park their vehicles at a winter parking lot for Wild Basin hikes. Be aware that hikes from the winter parking lot add on another 3 miles of hiking (one-way). There are other small parking areas, like the Finch Lake Trailhead, that may be accessible and allow hikers to park closer to the Wild Basin Trailhead. It's important to know that Hwy 115, though titled a "highway", is a maintained dirt road, which means that it can be used by 2WD vehicles. However, after heavy rains and other severe weather, its quality may degrade until it is repaired. 4WD may be needed when snow is on the ground.

calypso cascades rocky mountain national park from below
Calypso Cascades From Below

The Hike: Calypso Cascades Trail in RMNP

The hike to Calypso Cascades begins at the Wild Basin Trailhead, and at just .3 mile into the trail, passes by both the lower and upper leaps of Copeland Falls. Read our full trail profile on Copeland Falls for details on how to access both sets of cascades.

After taking in the views at Copeland Falls, the trail follows the course of North St. Vrain Creek as it flows out of the rugged high country and snowfields in this wild corner of Rocky Mountain National Park. Soon the trail will split. The right-hand trail leads through a segment of trail with 5 different backcountry camping sites and on towards Thunder and Lion lakes. These backcountry camping sites can be reserved through the RMNP Backcountry Offices. The left-hand trail leads south towards Calypso Cascades and Finch Lake Trail system.

Taking the Finch Lake Trail, hikers will cross a large log bridge spanning North St. Vrain Creek. Near the bridge, you'll discover an unnamed set of cascades. After crossing the bridge, the trail follows Cony Creek for about 0.4 mile to the site of Calypso Cascades. Calypso Cascades are reminiscent of Fern Falls: the waters of Cony Creek tumble over boulders and fallen trees in a moss-covered landscape. What makes Calypso Cascades unique are the Calypso Orchids (also known as Pink Lady Slippers) that bloom in the late-spring and early-summer along the creek.

Hikers can return to the trailhead to make this a 3.6 mile hike, or can continue on the Finch Lake trail for approximately 1 mile to the site of Ouzel Falls.

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Pink Fairy Slipper Flower

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Tips & Resources for Hiking to Calypso Cascades in RMNP

  • TIP: The area near the bridge over North St. Vrain Creek can be a great spot for a picnic.
  • Packing List: Always pack the 10 Essentials. Download our Hiking Guide to get list and dayhiking packing checklist.
  • TIP: There are food storage lockers available at the Wild Basin, Finch Lake, and Sandbeach Lake Trailheads. These are required for visitors staying overnight.
  • Get there early: Parking lot might get full even early in the morning.
  • You're in Bear Country: Black Bears live in the Wild Basin area and are active on the months of April through November. Be aware, dispose of your food responsibly, and don't food or anything else with a strong scent in your vehicle.
  • Trail Map for Wild Basin Area: Trail Map Link
  • Colorado Road Conditions: Colorado Road Conditions
  • Photo: We would like to express our gratitude to Jeff Kramer for sharing such an amazing photograph of this hike to Calypso Cascades in RMNP.
  • After the Hike: Meadow Mountain Cafe

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Ouzel Falls in Rocky Mountain National Park

Ouzel Falls spills over a cliffside and enormous boulders, making it arguably one of the most beautiful waterfalls in Rocky Mountain National Park. Before reaching this 40-foot falls, the trail traces the course of several creeks and leads hikers past three other cascade waterfalls. Explore the full Ouzel Falls hike profile below for trail map, driving directions, and more tips and details to help you enjoy this adventure in the Wild Basin of Rocky Mountain National Park.

Note: Rocky Mountain National Park now requires timed entry permits from May 27th through October 10th. See the RMNP permits page for more information.

Trail Snapshot: Ouzel Falls in Rocky Mountain National Park

Parking & Trailhead Information for Ouzel Falls

The southeast corner of Rocky Mountain National Park boasts one of the loveliest portions in the park known as the Wild Basin. The Wild Basin Trailhead is located just 15 minutes outside of Allenspark, Colorado along Highway 115. There is a ranger station at at the Wild Basin Trailhead with toilets and drinking water available.

In the winter (October-May), Hwy 115 may not be plowed to the trailhead, and hikers will need to park their vehicles at a winter parking lot for Wild Basin hikes. Be aware that hikes from the winter parking lot add on another 3 miles of hiking (one-way). There are other small parking areas, like the Finch Lake Trailhead, that may be accessible and allow hikers to park closer to the Wild Basin Trailhead. It's important to know that Hwy 115, though titled a "highway", is a maintained dirt road, which means that it can be used by 2WD vehicles. However, after heavy rains and other severe weather, its quality may degrade until it is repaired. 4WD may be needed when snow is on the ground.

The Hike: Ouzel Falls Trail in RMNP

This 2.7 mile hike (one-way) begins at the Wild Basin Trailhead and passes three other cascade waterfalls before arriving at the Ouzel Falls. Copeland Falls are found just 0.4 miles into the hike. For details on locating both the lower and upper cascades, explore our full trail profile on Copeland Falls. After Copeland Falls, the trail continues following alongside North Saint Vrain Creek for about 1 mile to where it splits. The right-hand trail leads south to a log bridge crossing the creek. Near the bridge, hikers can take in the sights and sounds of another small cascade.

The trail continues south to Calypso Cascades, the third and final cascade waterfall before reaching Ouzel Falls. Here the trail splits again. The left-hand/east trail leads aback towards the Finch Lake trail and the Allenspark Trailhead. The right-hand/west trail leads towards Ouzel Falls and the Bluebird Lake Trail. Here, the trail crosses a set of two bridges, then climbs uphill through a set of switchbacks. The mountains to the north now come into view, both Mt. Meeker, Pagoda, and Longs Peak. This segment of trail between Calypso Cascades and Ouzel Falls is approximately 1 mile.

A second set of switchbacks brings hikers within earshot of the falls, and they will come into view at the bridge that crosses over Ouzel Creek. However, the best views of the falls can be gained via a social trail that is located before the bridge on the left side of the creek. This unmaintained trail leads to an area above the falls with incredible views of alpine meadows and craggy peaks. As with any social trails, please use the most worn paths and hike on durable surfaces. Be aware that the rock can become slick in this area and hikers should exercise caution when navigating above the falls.

Ouzel Falls is named after the Ouzel or Water-Dipper, the only songbird that lives a mostly aquatic life. Ouzels weave globe-shaped nests near waterfalls, lakes, and streams. They dive--even walk--underwater to catch insects and larvae.

Hikers can return the 2.7 miles back they way they came to Ouzel Falls, or can hike further to destinations such as Ouzel Lake (an additional 2.2 miles, one-way).

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Ouzel Falls on a Wet Spring Day - Courtesy of Chris Heald

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Tips & Resources for Hiking to Ouzel Falls in RMNP

  • Get there early: Parking may be somewhat limited as with many hikes in RMNP. Parking at the trailhead can fill up, even in the early morning.
  • You're in Bear Country: Black Bears live in the Wild Basin area and are active on the months of April through November. Be aware, and dispose of your food responsibly. Be sure that no food or strong scented items are left in your car.
  • TIP: There are food storage lockers available at the Wild Basin, Finch Lake, and Sandbeach Lake Trailheads. These are required for visitors staying overnight.
  • Trail Map for Wild Basin Area: Trail Map Link
  • Packing List: Always pack the 10 Essentials. Download our Hiking Guide to get list and dayhiking packing checklist.
  • Colorado Road Conditions: Colorado Road Conditions
  • Photo: We would like to express our gratitude to Steven Bratman for sharing such an amazing photograph of this hike to Ouzel Falls in RMNP.
  • After the Hike: Meadow Mountain Cafe

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Grace Falls Hike in Rocky Mountain National Park

The hike to view Grace Falls, high in the rock cliffs and ledges of Odessa Gorge, is one of several waterfalls and scenic waypoints along the Fern Lake Trail. Grace Falls drops nearly a hundred feet from Notchtop Mountain, tumbling over a series of ledges, eventually making its way into Fern Creek. Explore the full Grace Falls hike profile below for trail map, driving directions, and more of the details and tips you need to enjoy this adventure in Rocky Mountain National Park.

Note: Rocky Mountain National Park now requires timed entry permits from May 27th through October 10th. See the RMNP permits page for more information.

Trail Snapshot: Grace Falls in Rocky Mountain National Park

Parking & Trailhead Information for Grace Falls in RMNP

Parking is more limited in this area of Rocky Mountain National Park, and you'll likely have to park at the Park & Ride then take the shuttle to the Fern Lake Trailhead. You'll find driving directions above to The Fern Lake Trailhead (closest to this hike), the Fern Lake Bus Stop Parking area (very limited parking), and for the Park & Ride lot. See the RMNP Shuttle page for dates and times of service. Avoid parking along Fern Lake road as this damages the road side. If you park or are dropped off at the Fern Lake Bus Station, the hike from the station to the trailhead will add and additional .8 mile, one-way, to your hike.

The Hike: Grace Falls in RMNP

The journey up to view Grace in Falls Rocky Mountain National Park takes hikers past or near 5 different waterfalls and several other scenic sites. Refer to the sites and waypoints list below for the full set. Because the last stretch of trail from the western shore of Odessa lake to Grace Falls is unmaintained and difficult to discern, the falls are best viewed from the stretch of trail between Odessa and Lake Helene (more detailed directions are below).

Grace falls freezes over in the winter, attracting ice climbers to the area. The size of the falls and volume depends very much on the melting snowpack from Ptarmigan Glacier. The best time of year to view the falls is in the Spring-Early Summer. The area near the base of Grace Falls is prone to avalanches--especially during this time of year--which is another good reason to elect to view Grace Falls from the Fern Lake trail, rather than attempting the difficult hike and scramble to its base.

The best place to view Grace Falls is about .8 mile beyond the Odessa Lake junction where the trail begins to climb toward the top of Odessa Gorge making its way toward Lake Helene. This brings the journey to approximately the 6 mile point, or 12 miles round trip. An alternative and very scenic return route is to continue on the trail until it joins up with the Flattop Trail connector which leads east and down into the Bear Lake Trailhead. This makes for a 9.6 mile total hike. At the Bear Lake Trailhead, a shuttle system can transport hikers back to the Fern Lake bus stop. If you are considering this option, be sure to check the shuttle times and details. At the time of this writing, a shuttle transfer at the park-n-ride will be necessary to get back to the Fern Lake bus stop.

Sights & Waypoints Along the Fern Lake Trail:

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Tips & Resources for Hiking to Grace Falls Viewpoint in RMNP

  • TIP: It is advisable to arrive early at the Fern Lake Trailhead as parking is limited. If the lot is full, the best option is to use the park-n-ride shuttle that drops you off at the bus stop near the Fern Lake trailhead.
  • Begin Early: As with all longer hikes in the Colorado Mountains, it's important to start very early in the morning to avoid the thunderstorms that form in the early afternoon.
  • Trekking Poles & Traction Devices or Snowshoes are Necessary in Spring and Winter: During this time of year, there can be patches and even longer segments of snow and ice on the trail. Because of this, we recommend Trekking Poles and/or Traction Devices for this trail. Snow it thick above Fern Lake until Mid-Summer, because of this snowshoes are also recommended.
  • Recommended Trail Map with Location of Grace Falls: National Geographic Trails Illustrated Map
  • Packing List: Always pack the 10 Essentials. Download our Hiking Guide to get list and dayhiking packing checklist.
  • Colorado Road Conditions: Colorado Road Conditions
  • Photo: We would like to express our gratitude to Stacey Bender for sharing such an amazing photograph of this hike to Grace Falls in RMNP.
  • After the Hike: Baba's Burgers & Gyros

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Marguerite Falls in Rocky Mountain National Park

Marguerite Falls is a set of casacades with upper and lower leaps, just below Fern Lake in Rocky Mountain National Park. After the 3.9 mile hike up to Fern Lake, a social trail leads into the woods along Fern Creek to the falls. Explore the full Marguerite Falls hike profile below for trail map, driving directions, and more of the details and tips you need to enjoy this adventure in Rocky Mountain National Park.

Note: Rocky Mountain National Park now requires timed entry permits from May 27th through October 10th. See the RMNP permits page for more information.

Trail Snapshot: Marguerite Falls in Rocky Mountain National Park

Parking & Trailhead Information for Marguerite Falls in RMNP

Parking is more limited in this area of Rocky Mountain National Park, and you'll likely have to park at the Park & Ride then take the shuttle to the Fern Lake Trailhead. You'll find driving directions above to The Fern Lake Trailhead (closest to this hike), the Fern Lake Bus Stop Parking area (very limited parking), and for the Park & Ride lot. See the RMNP Shuttle page for dates and times of service. Avoid parking along Fern Lake road as this damages the road side. If you park or are dropped off at the Fern Lake Bus Station, the hike from the station to the trailhead will add and additional .8 mile, one-way, to your hike.

The Hike: Marguerite Falls in RMNP

After hiking the 3.9 miles up to Fern Lake from the Fern Lake Trailhead--see the full Fern Lake Trail Profile--a social trail can be found just before the bridge that crosses over where Fern Creek pours out of Fern Lake.

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The social trail down to Marguerite Falls is just to the left before crossing the footbridge.

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The social trail is steep at first, then weaves through a tangle of trees along Fern creek. Hikers should exercise caution, especially when the meltwater is high and the creek is swift. The trail may quickly become difficult to discern and hikers may need to navigate their way alongside the creek until the the cascades come into site.

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Marguerite Falls has two sets of cascades, the first, upper leaps, are located about 1/10th of a mile downstream from the lake. The second are approximately 1/10th of a mile further downstream.

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The best route back is to trace the creek back up to the mouth of Fern Lake where it meets up with the main Fern Lake Trail.

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Tips & Resources for Hiking to Marguerite Falls in Rocky Mountain National Park

  • TIP: Parking fills up fast. To avoid having to take the shuttle, we advise arriving at the Fern Lake Trailhead before 7:30 AM
  • Trekking Poles & Traction Devices are Recommended in Spring and Winter: During this time of year, there can be patches and even longer segments of snow and ice on the trail. Because of this, we recommend Trekking Poles and/or Traction Devices for this trail.
  • Bring a snack or picnic lunch: The rocks near the Big Thompson River and the shores of Fern Lake can be a great place for picnics. Plus, you're going to need some fuel for this hike.
  • Trail Map for Bear Lake Corridor: Trail Map Link
  • Packing List: Always pack the 10 Essentials. Download our Hiking Guide to get list and dayhiking packing checklist.
  • Colorado Road Conditions: Colorado Road Conditions
  • After the Hike: Baba's Burgers & Gyros

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Fern Falls in Rocky Mountain National Park

Fern Falls tumbles down through the forest casting a fine mist across the trail. It's a perfect place to stop, cool off, and take in the sights and sounds of the falls before hiking on to Fern Lake. Explore the full Fern Falls hike profile below for trail map, driving directions, and more of the details and tips you need to enjoy this adventure in Rocky Mountain National Park.

Note: Rocky Mountain National Park now requires timed entry permits from May 27th through October 10th. See the RMNP permits page for more information.

Trail Snapshot: Fern Falls in Rocky Mountain National Park

Parking & Trailhead Information for Fern Falls in RMNP

Parking is more limited in this area of Rocky Mountain National Park, and you'll likely have to park at the Park & Ride then take the shuttle to the Fern Lake Trailhead. You'll find driving directions above to The Fern Lake Trailhead (closest to this hike), the Fern Lake Bus Stop Parking area (very limited parking), and for the Park & Ride lot. See the RMNP Shuttle page for dates and times of service. Avoid parking along Fern Lake road as this damages the road side and vehicles are ticketed. If you park or are dropped off at the Fern Lake Bus Station, the hike from the station to the trailhead will add and additional .8 mile, one-way, to your hike.

The Hike: Fern Falls in RMNP

The hike to Fern Falls offers several beautiful sites along the way as it follows the Big Thompson River. The first is a side-trail cascade, Windy Gulch Cascades, which can be seen to the North (right) about 1/2 mile in. At 1.5 Miles in, the trail will weave through several house-size boulders at Arch Rocks.

Just a bit further at 1.7 miles, a bridge crosses the Big Thompson River near the spot of its confluence with both Spruce and Fern Creeks. This area is know as The Pool. After crossing the bridge at The Pool, Fern Falls is another 1 mile up the trail.

Shortly after The Pool, an unnamed set of cascades can be heard and seen to the right of the trail (pictured below). The remaining mile journey follows a set of switchbacks that make a steady climb through the forest to Fern Falls.

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Tips & Resources for Hiking to Fern Falls in Rocky Mountain National Park

  • TIP: It is advisable to arrive early as parking is limited.
  • Trekking Poles & Traction Devices are Recommended in Spring and Winter: During this time of year, there can be patches and even longer segments of snow and ice on the trail. Because of this, we recommend Trekking Poles and/or Traction Devices for this trail.
  • Bring A Snack or Picnic Lunch: The rocks and shore near the Big Thompson River can be a great place for picnics.
  • Trail Map for Bear Lake Corridor: Trail Map Link
  • Packing List: Always pack the 10 Essentials. Download our Hiking Guide to get list and dayhiking packing checklist.
  • Colorado Road Conditions: Colorado Road Conditions
  • Photo: We would like to express our gratitude to John B. Kalla for sharing such an amazing photograph of this hike to Fern Falls in RMNP.
  • After the Hike: Baba's Burgers & Gyros

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Windy Gulch Cascades in Rocky Mountain National Park

The Windy Gulch Cascades is a hidden cascade waterfall less than half a mile into Fern Lake Trail system in Rocky Mountain National Park. Though a short hike, the final 1/10th of a mile segment is off the main trail and in steep terrain. For that reason, we've noted this as a moderate difficulty hike. Explore the full Windy Gulch Cascades hike profile below for trail map, driving directions, and more of the details and tips to enjoy this adventure in Rocky Mountain National Park.

Note: Rocky Mountain National Park now requires timed entry permits from May 27th through October 10th. See the RMNP permits page for more information.

Trail Snapshot: Windy Gulch Cascades in Rocky Mountain National Park

Parking & Trailhead Information for Windy Gulch Cascades in RMNP

Parking is more limited in this area of Rocky Mountain National Park, and you'll likely have to park at the Park & Ride then take the shuttle to the Fern Lake Trailhead. You'll find driving directions above to The Fern Lake Trailhead (closest to this hike), the Fern Lake Bus Stop Parking area (very limited parking), and for the Park & Ride lot. See the RMNP Shuttle page for dates and times of service. Avoid parking along Fern Lake road as this damages the roadside, and vehicles will be ticketed. If you park or are dropped off at the Fern Lake Bus Station, the hike from the station to the trailhead will add and additional .8 mile, one-way, to your hike.

The Hike: Windy Gulch Cascades in RMNP

Beginning at the Fern Lake Trailhead, the trail will lead approximately .4 mile to a point where the trail bears to the left, just after crossing a small footbridge. The falls can be heard from the trail. Here, on the right-hand side of the trail is a small, unmaintained, social trail that leads into the woods and up to Windy Gulch Cascades (see photo below).

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Because this trail is unmaintained, be sure to hike on durable surfaces and stay on the discernable social trail. The trail soon gives way to a boulder field that leads up into the gulch. The way up to the cascade stays to the left side (west side) of the creek.

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A small amount of scrambling is required, but no climbing. In fact, avoid any steep areas. Soon, the boulder field gives way to grass. From here, the lower cascades come into view (pictured at the top of this post). The upper cascades can be seen by looking further up into the gulch (which has essentially become a narrow canyon). At the top of the upper cascades, a 15'-20' waterfall can be seen gushing over the the canyon wall (pictured below).

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Travel beyond this point is not recommended as the terrain is steep, slick, and the rock is unstable.

After retracing the same route by descending the boulder field, then following the same social trail, hikers will arrive back at the main trail. The cascades can be enjoyed from a distance when hiking further up the Fern Lake trail. However, they are missed by most hikers because they are tucked away in the gulch. The photos and video of this hike were taken in the early summer whe the cascades are at their best.

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Tips & Resources for Hiking to Windy Gulch Cascades in RMNP

  • TIP: It is advisable to arrive early as parking is limited. One may opt to ride a shuttle that drops you off at the trailhead.
  • Bring some food: The rocks near the Big Thompson River can be a great place for picnics.
  • Mosquitos: There were an unusually high number of mosquitos on this hike, so we would recommend wearing some mosquito repellant.
  • Recommended Map for Rocky Mountain National Park: The trail maps provided by Rocky Mountain National Park are usually sufficient. However, if you plan to hike RMNP often, we recommend purchasing a National Geographic Trails Illustrated Map. This map also notes the location of the Windy Gulch Cascades and gives an accurate depiction of the terrain.
  • Packing List: Always pack the 10 Essentials. Download our Hiking Guide to get list and dayhiking packing checklist.
  • Colorado Road Conditions: Colorado Road Conditions
  • After the Hike: Baba's Burgers & Gyros

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Copeland Falls in Rocky Mountain National Park

Copeland Falls is just one of the many waterfalls hikers will encounter in the Wild Basin area of Rocky Mountain National Park. In fact, you can't miss Copeland Falls as it is the first waterfall along the main trail--just a short hike from the trailhead. Explore the full Copeland Falls hike profile below for trail map, driving directions, and more tips and details to help you enjoy this adventure in Rocky Mountain National Park.

Note: Rocky Mountain National Park now requires timed entry permits from May 27th through October 10th. See the RMNP permits page for more information.

Trail Snapshot: Copeland Falls in Rocky Mountain National Park

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Another View of Copeland Falls

Parking & Trailhead Information for Copeland Falls

The southeast corner of Rocky Mountain National Park boasts one of the loveliest portions in the park known as the Wild Basin. The Wild Basin Trailhead is located just 15 minutes outside of Allenspark, Colorado along Highway 115. There is a ranger station at at the Wild Basin Trailhead with toilets and drinking water available.

In the winter (October-May), Hwy 115 may not be plowed to the trailhead, and hikers will need to park their vehicles at a winter parking lot for Wild Basin hikes. Be aware that hikes from the winter parking lot add on another 3 miles of hiking (one-way). There are other small parking areas, like the Finch Lake Trailhead, that may be accessible and allow hikers to park closer to the Wild Basin Trailhead. It's important to know that Hwy 115, though titled a "highway", is a maintained dirt road, which means that it can be used by 2WD vehicles. However, after heavy rains and other severe weather, its quality may degrade until it is repaired. 4WD may be needed when snow is on the ground.

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Wild Basin Trailhead

The Hike: Copeland Falls Trail in RMNP

Copeland Falls is just a short and easy hike from the Wild Basin Trailhead. There are lower and upper leaps at Copeland Falls, and they are reached by following a couple of spur trails that branch off from the main trail. Signs will indicate the location of the trail to the Lower Copeland Falls. After viewing the lower falls, another spur trail leads along St. Vrain Creek to Upper Copeland Falls. A sign will indicate where this second spur trail is located. After viewing the falls, hikers can connect back to the main Wild Basin Trail which leads on to many other beautiful destinations, including several more waterfalls.

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Tips & Resources for Hiking to Copeland Falls in RMNP

  • TIP: Bring lots of water and high-energy food.
  • TIP: There are food storage lockers available at the Wild Basin, Finch Lake, and Sandbeach Lake Trailheads. These are required for visitors staying overnight.
  • Get there early: Parking lot might get full even early in the morning.
  • You're in Bear Country: Black Bears live in the Wild Basin area and are active on the months of April through November. Be aware, and dispose of your food responsibly.
  • Trail Map for Wild Basin Area: Trail Map Link
  • Packing List: Always pack the 10 Essentials. Download our Hiking Guide to get list and dayhiking packing checklist.
  • Colorado Road Conditions: Colorado Road Conditions
  • Photo: We would like to express our gratitude to Ben Graham for sharing such an amazing photograph of this hike to Copeland Falls in RMNP. His photos can also be seen at Redbubble.
  • After the Hike: Meadow Mountain Cafe

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Chaos Canyon Cascades in Rocky Mountain National Park

Chaos Canyon Cascades in Rocky Mountain National Park is formed as Chaos Creek tumbles through the forest below Lake Haiyaha. This 4.2 mile round trip hike is on the east side of RMNP to one of the lesser visited cascade waterfalls in the park. Explore the full Chaos Canyon Cascades hike profile below for trail map, driving directions, and some important tips and resources for this adventure in Rocky Mountain National Park.

Note: Rocky Mountain National Park now requires timed entry permits from May 27th through October 10th. See the RMNP permits page for more information.

Trail Snapshot: Chaos Canyon Cascades in Rocky Mountain National Park

Parking & Trailhead Information for Chaos Canyon Cascades

The trail to Chaos Canyon Cascades begins at the Bear Lake Trailhead (driving directions). In the event the parking lot at Bear Lake is full, you'll then need to park at the Park & Ride near the Bierstadt Trailhead and take the bus into the trailhead. This service runs 7am to 7PM and more information on the RMNP shuttle bus routes can be found at this link. The trail is located on your way to Bear Lake, off to the left, just before reaching the shore viewing area of Bear Lake. It follows the same main trail that leads hikers up to both Nymph and Dream Lakes.

The Hike to Chaos Canyon Cascades

From the Bear Lake Trailhead, hikers will reach Nymph Lake at .5 mile. After continuing on the trail for approximately another .5 mile, hikers will come upon a trail split. Be sure to first hike the additional .1 mile (right-hand trail) up to Dream Lake first. Dream Lake is not to be missed. After returning to this trail split, the trail to Chaos Canyon Cascades is the same trail leading up towards Lake Haiyaha. After traveling .8 mile, the trail crosses a footbridge going over Chaos Creek. After crossing the footbridge, hikers should be able to locate an unmaintained social trail on the left-hand (east) side of the main trail.

The trail will descend and follow Chaos Creek, but will soon enter a steep area where the brush is dense and the trail is difficult to discern. Exercise caution in this area The cascades should come into view after just a few short minutes, as they are only about 1/10th of a mile from the footbridge. Because this is an unmaintained trail, be sure to tread lightly. Take care not to disturb the flowers and undergrowth, and the pristine environment of the cascades.

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Lake Haiyaha courtesy of Miguel Vieira

Hikers can add another Lake to this hike by returning to the main trail via the same route to the cascades, then continuing south to the Lake Haiyaha trail junction. A short spur trail to Haiyaha (on the right) leads to another great high mountain lake in RMNP. Adding Haiyaha to the hike would make this an approximately 4.6 mile round-trip hike.

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Tips & Resources for Hiking to Chaos Canyon Cascades in Rocky Mountain National Park

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adams falls waterfall on hike in grand lake colorado rocky mountain national park

Adams Falls in Rocky Mountain National Park

Adams Falls is a short .6-mile round-trip hike near Grand Lake, Colorado. The waterfall borders Rocky Mountain National Park and its trail begins at the same trailhead for the East Inlet Trail. Explore the full Adams Falls hike profile below for trail map, driving directions, and all the details you need for this short waterfall Hike in Rocky Mountain National Park.

Note: Rocky Mountain National Park now requires timed entry permits from May 27th through October 10th. See the RMNP permits page for more information.

Trail Snapshot: Adams Falls in Rocky Mountain National Park

Adams Falls is named after Jay E. Adams, an early settler of Grand Lake, Colorado. This hike is on the quieter western side of Rocky Mountain National Park. However, it's still a popular trail, so expect to encounter a lot of hikers. Go on a weekday or early morning for the experience of quiet and solitude. After hiking the .3 mile segment of trail, you'll arrive at Adams Falls. There is an observation area that grants the best and safest views of the falls.

waterfall tumbling over rock with mountain and trees in background rocky mountain national park adams falls

The hike to Adams Falls is perfect for families with young children who may not be able to hike as far. As with all streams and waterfalls, have children exercise caution and stay away from the streambank. Rocks are slippery and the hydraulic force of the creek can be incredibly powerful. About 1/4 mile beyond Adams Falls, there are spectacular views of the East Meadows, making the short distance a worth addition to this easy waterfall hike.

adams-falls-east-inlet-trail-rocky-mountain-national-park

East Meadow - about .3 Mile Beyond Adams Falls

Tips & Resources for Hiking to Adams Falls, Grand Lake, CO

  • Wear Good Footwear: The trail has a lot of rocks and roots, so be sure to have shoes or boots that can handle slick surfaces.
  • Explore More: Hike about a quarter mile past the falls to where the meadows open up and East Inlet creek meanders through the tall grass. It's an amazing sight.
  • Trail Map for Rocky Mountain National Park: Trail Map
  • Packing List: Always pack the 10 Essentials. Download our Hiking Guide to get list and dayhiking packing checklist.
  • Colorado Road Conditions: Colorado Road Conditions
  • After the Hike: The Hub Coffee
  • Photo: We would like to express our gratitude to Kimon Berlin for sharing such an amazing photograph of this hike.

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Shelf Creek Falls in Rocky Mountain National Park

Shelf Creek Falls is a waterfall hidden within the races of Shelf Creek in Rocky Mountain National Park. This waterfall is not marked on maps, but can be found along the hike up to Shelf Lake, a demanding hike on an unmaintained trail in Glacier Gorge. Because this hike is off-the-beaten-path, it is recommended only for those who have a familiarity with Rocky Mountain National Park and who have honed their skills in backcountry travel. See the full trail profile for Shelf Lake for details.

Note: Rocky Mountain National Park now requires timed entry permits from May 27th through October 10th. See the RMNP permits page for more information.

Trail Snapshot: Shelf Creek Falls in Rocky Mountain National Park

Shelf Creek Falls can be seen in the distance from the trail along Glacier Creek, after leaving Jewel Lake, at approximately 1/4 mile past the Glacier Gorge Campsite/Black Lake signpost. Different segments of the falls, like on the one pictured below, can be seen along the unmaintained trail that leads up to Shelf Lake and Shelf Falls. For a more detailed description of the hike to this area, see the trail profile for Shelf Lake.

01_shelf-creek-falls-rocky-mountain-national-park

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waterfall in canyon with bridge in foreground fish creek falls waterfall in colorado