Wild Basin

BETA PHOTO: Hidden Falls: 9 Jan 07. The ice was quite hard and...

Description 

This is an organizational entry for the RMNP mixed/ice database.

This is the most southern section of RMNP on the eastern side. Here lies a sprinkling of ice and mixed routes, including one of the more popular ice climbs in RMNP, Hidden Falls. If you're headed there, expect a crowd (upwards of 20 people have wandered in), but take delight if you find solitude. Further uphill lies Ouzel Falls, a 50' climb which can be buried in snow by mid-winter. Even further uphill lies the potential for even grander adventures. Probably, some of the more adventuresome souls like Duncan may have ventured here, but don't expect a well-packed trail. Beyond Ouzel Falls, few souls wander in the middle of winter.

Getting There 

From CO 7, perhaps 10 miles south of Estes Park, find the well-marked Wild Basin entrance (as of 2008, still no fee during the winter). Drive west as far as the road is plowed. This is usually 1 mile short of the summer road terminus. Park. Walk, snowshoe, or ski in ~1.5 mi. You can take the horse trail on the south side of the creek or pass Copeland Falls and carefully cross the creek. Note pools in the creek can be quite deep.