Lake Ouzel Trail

Route Description for Lake Ouzel Trail

The Ouzel Lake Trail will undoubtedly impress its adventurers. Hike through aspen groves, past several cascading waterfalls and up to the small alpine lake. This trail provides the perfect excuse to get out into nature. Hike the forested path through towering pines interspersed with vibrant aspens and enjoy the epic mountain vistas the entirety of the way. If you are planning to hike this path in the autumn or winter, wear microspikes to navigate the icy terrain! Additionally, hikers must purchase a park pass to access this trail.

Begin your adventure along the Ouzel Lake Trail from the Wild Basin Trailhead. From here, the Wild Basing Trail will guide you southwest and past three waterfalls! Enjoy the meditative sounds of the cascading waters as you trek further into the wilderness. Soon after your departure from the trailhead, you will encounter an intersection. Here, veer left, and you will be delivered to the Calypso Cascades. Enjoy the sight of yet another waterfall and continue hiking. Follow the Wild Basin Trail and navigate the switchbacks up to Ouzel Falls. Admire the picturesque waterfall and track along the path to the next junction. At this point, you will want to keep left, diverting you onto the Ouzel Lake Trail.

Hike along Ouzel Creek and ascend the route up to Ouzel Lake and the campsites. Revel in the grandeur of the encompassing summits and enjoy the sights of the crystalline alpine lake before you. Rest and refuel along the lake’s shore before beginning your descent. When you are ready, retrace your steps along the path back to the trailhead.