Rocky Mountain National Park's Ouzel Lake Trail

Ouzel Lake Trail

Description:
The Ouzel Lake Trail connects the Bluebird Lake Trail with Ouzel Lake. There is less than 100 feet in elevation change over the .43 miles of trail. The trail heads downhill through some open wet areas in a south westerly direction before turning west toward the lake. There are numerous wildflowers growing along its path. You'll make a slight climb over the last .25 miles to the lake. There is a hitch rack just below the lake. Horses are not permitted beyond this point. From here the trail follows Ouzel Creek to the lake. There is good access to all of the shore for fishing. Catch and release fishing only is allowed.

Features:

Length:	.43 miles (.7 kilometers)
Elevation Range:	9,910' - 10,001'
Elevation change:	99 feet
Season:	Jun 15 - Oct 15
Difficulty:	Easy
Use:	Moderate
USGS maps:	Isolation Peak
Trailheads:	Wild Basin
Restrictions:	No pets are permitted
Suitable for mountain bikes:	No (not permitted)
Suitable for horses:	Yes

Vicinity Map

Altitude Profile

Directions:
The Ouzel Lake Trail begins from the Bluebird Lake Trail. The nearest access to this trail is via the Wild Basin Trailhead. Take Highway 7 south from Estes Park for about 10.8 miles to the Wild Basin Area turnoff (about 3.8 miles south of the Longs Peak access road). Turn right and follow the road for about .4 miles to the Wild Basin Entrance (just past the Wild Basin Lodge). Follow the narrow dirt road for about 2 miles to the Wild Basin Ranger Station and the trailhead. Take the Thunder Lake Trail for about 3.2 miles to the Bluebird Lake Trail intersection. Hike 1.43 miles to the Ouzel Lake Trail.

There is room for 50 to 60 vehicles at the trailhead and 30 to 40 more at various spots along the road to the trailhead. The road is narrow and not recommended for Rvs. This a popular area and often fills up by mid morning.

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