Explore & Photograph Wild Basin in Rocky Mountain National Park with a Pro
We will explore and photograph the appropriately named Wild Basin in Rocky Mountain National Park. We will hike along the North Saint Vrain Creek, and stop along the way to photograph several waterfalls (including Copeland Falls, Calypso Cascades and Ouzel Falls).
Bring your tripod and a polarizer filter, and I will demonstrate my techniques for capturing waterfalls and other moving water in a variety of lighting conditions, and help you capture great silky water photographs.
The full hike to Ouzel Falls is about 5.5 miles (9 km) round trip, with just under 1,000' elevation gain. For those not able to do the full hike, we will do a more leisurely hike to Calypso Cascades (about 3.6 miles round trip, and about 700' of elev. gain), which still takes you deep into a beautiful area, with multiple falls, and wildflowers and fall color in season.
Don't have a RMNP timed entry reservation? No need! My commercial use permit means we don't need an advance permit!
Options
Explore & Photograph Wild Basin in Rocky Mountain National Park with a Pro
Pickup included
What's included in Explore & Photograph Wild Basin in Rocky Mountain National Park with a Pro
(Subject to Option Inclusions)Itinerary
Wild Basin Area
Wild Basin is a less popular but spectacularly beautiful river valley area of Rocky Mountain National Park. We will visit multiple waterfalls and viewpoints along the way.
Calypso Cascades
Calypso cascades is a multi tiered waterfall which offers multiple angles to photograph.
Ouzel Falls
A beautiful waterfall named for the aquatic dipping birds that frequent the area.
Inclusions
- Timed Entry Permit
- Private transportation
- Snacks
- Park entrance fees - bring a national park pass or receipt for entrance.
- Public transportation options are available nearby
- Infants are required to sit on an adult’s lap
- Not recommended for travelers with poor cardiovascular health
- Travelers should have at least a moderate level of physical fitness
- This hike is from 8500' to 9500' elevation. If you are coming from sea level, plan on acclimating to the elevation for a day or two before joining us.
Meet
Pickup and Dropoff
You can choose to be picked up from a list of locations, or alternatively, have the choice to make your own way to the meeting points
Please arrive at the pick up point 15 minutes before departure time.
Additional Information
I will confirm a pickup or meeting point a few days before the tour.
Meeting / End Points
- We will meet at the Estes Park Visitors Center. Free parking in a lot off Big Thomspon Ave (US 34), or the garage off N. St Vrain (US 36). Meet me in front of the entrance on the South (river) side of the building. We can also meet at the Wild Basin Trailhead if that is closer to you.
